Stephen Furst died on Friday at the age of 63.

The actor was best known for playing Kent “Flounder” Dorfman in 1978’s Animal House. Furst died in his California home from complications with diabetes.

His son, Nathan Furst, announced the tragic news on Saturday. “It was from complications from diabetes,” he said. “Over the last several years it was getting worse a little bit. Sort of the typical things that tend to happen when you have diabetes a long time.”

“Steve has a long list of earthly accomplishments,” Furst’s sons wrote on Facebook. “He was known to the world as [a] brilliant and prolific actor and filmmaker, but to his family and many dear friends, he was also a beloved husband, father and kind friend whose memory will always be a blessing. To truly honor him, do not cry for the loss of Stephen Furst. But rather, enjoy memories of all the times he made you snicker, laugh, or even snort to your own embarrassment. He intensely believed that [laughter] is the best therapy, and he would want us to practice that now. If you knew him personally, remember his gift for lighting up a room. And no matter who you are, when you think of Steve, instead of being sad, celebrate his life by watching one of his movies or use one of his bits to make someone else laugh — really, really hard.”

Furst appeared on TV in St. Elsewhere and Babylon 5, but he was best remembered for his role as the innocent freshman from Animal House. He was born in Norfork, Virginia on May 8, 1955 and made his first acting appearance in the 1977 film American Raspberry. Furst also directed Baby Huey’s Great Easter Adventure in 1999 and Magic Kid 2 in 1994.
Hurst is survived by his wife, Lorraine, two grandchildren, and his sons Nathan and Griffith.

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