Jack Hanna, zoo worker and conservationist, was diagnosed with dementia family said Wednesday. The former director of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is retiring from public life.
Hanna’s three daughters – Kathaleen, Suzanne and Julie – announced their 74-year-old father’s diagnosis in a letter on social media. Doctors believe his condition, which has progressed much faster than expected, is Alzheimer’s.
“Although father can no longer travel and work in the same way, we know that his infectious enthusiasm has touched many hearts and that it will still be his legacy,” his daughters wrote.
Hanna, also known as ‘Jungle Jack’, became a well-known naturalist through his work as director of the Columbus Zoo – a position he held from 1978 to 1992 – and his regular media appearance in the late-night talk shows, where he regularly introduced the audience to the animals he worked with.
“Dad worked with millions of households through his media appearances and weekly television shows – including Animal Adventures, Into the Wild and Wild Countdown,” the sisters wrote. “It has enabled him to bring an unparalleled level of awareness about the importance of world conservation, given the incessant pressure on the natural environment.”
Thanks: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
The letter also highlights Julie Hanna’s “ongoing lifelong challenges of her childhood leukemia as she is currently recovering from major surgery.”
The family asked for privacy and understanding because COVID-19 restrictions, with the sisters adding: ‘ironically, given Dad’s love of interacting with people.’
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, where Hanna was director emeritus until she retired in December last year, also shared the letter, which states that it respects the family’s wishes for privacy.
“While Jack retired from his official role at the end of 2020, his legacy will always be present in our work as we continue to guide and inspire our organization’s mission by connecting people and wildlife,” the organization told CBS News.