Final Words of Dan Haggerty: Why He Had to Say Goodbye to His Wife of Over 20 Years

Dan Haggerty, known for his role as Grizzly Adams, left behind a powerful legacy after his passing. His final moments reflected his incredible life in entertainment and his personal struggles.

Dan Haggerty said goodbye with grace, leaving behind a memory filled with kindness and warmth. His career was a long journey that included a deep connection with animals and his passion for acting. To learn more about his last words and the heartbreaking decision he made for his wife, continue reading.

If you remember Grizzly Adams, you probably feel nostalgic. It was a simpler time, before modern technology like cable TV, cell phones, and the internet. The show wouldn’t have been the same without Haggerty, who made the role feel natural and real.

The character of Grizzly Adams seemed to reflect Haggerty’s own nature. Many stories from fellow actors, crew members, and fans paint a picture of a kind, gentle, and jovial person. But let’s take a closer look at how this iconic actor came to embody the role of Grizzly Adams, and how he captivated an entire generation.

Haggerty was born in Los Angeles in 1942, and his parents hoped he would become a priest. However, Haggerty had other plans. He was a “wild child” who later went off track, according to his best friend, Terry Bomar. Haggerty developed a love for animals early on and began working on a ranch, where he helped train animals for films.

He was also physically strong, thanks to his interest in bodybuilding. This led him to stunt work and set building. Haggerty’s blend of skills set him up for future roles, and soon, he began acting in low-budget films. His expertise with animals also helped him work as an animal trainer for Walt Disney Studios.

Haggerty’s big break came when he was cast in the 1974 film When the North Wind Blows, where he worked with wild animals. This event led to his casting in the film The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams, which later became a TV series. The show, which ran from 1977 to 1978, focused on nature and Haggerty’s connection with animals. It was a perfect fit for him, and the series made him famous.

After Grizzly Adams, Haggerty faced some struggles, including an arrest for drug possession in 1984, which led to a short jail sentence. That year, he also survived a severe motorcycle accident. He later worked to rebuild his life and gave back to the community.

In the 1960s, Haggerty opened a leather shop called “Cornucopia” in Los Angeles and later ventured into the food business. His Cajun barbecue sauce became popular in California, and in the 1990s, he opened Haggerty’s Bistro, a French-inspired restaurant. He also continued acting in TV series and guest spots on shows like Charlie’s Angels and The Love Boat.

However, Haggerty’s life was marked by more accidents. In 1991, he was injured in another motorcycle crash, leading to rumors of his death. Fortunately, he survived.

Grizzly Adams was known for living a solitary life in the show, and at one point, the producers considered giving him a wife. However, the audience preferred him as a solitary figure, much like a monk. Haggerty, in real life, had been married twice.

His first marriage was to Diane Rooker in 1959, and together they had two daughters, Tracey and Tammy. They lived in Malibu with animals like lions and wolves, but they divorced in 1984. Later that year, Haggerty married Samantha Hilton, and they had three children together. Tragically, in 2008, Samantha died in a motorcycle crash after hitting a deer. Haggerty was devastated and had to make the heartbreaking decision to let her go, as doctors said there was no hope.

In 2015, Haggerty received more sad news when he was diagnosed with spinal cancer. Despite fighting the illness, he passed away on January 15, 2016. Even as his health declined, Haggerty continued working on films. His death left a large void in the hearts of fans.

Terry Bomar, Haggerty’s friend, remembered him as someone who could light up any room with his infectious laughter. Bomar shared their final conversation, where Haggerty’s last words were “I love you,” spoken during a call just before his passing.

Dan Haggerty will always be remembered as Grizzly Adams, a beloved figure in the hearts of many. His life was full of love, laughter, and the kind of magic that made him an icon. Rest in peace, Dan. You’ll never be forgotten.