Stephen Furst — actor and filmmaker best known for his breakout role as Flounder in ‘Animal House‘ — has died due to complications from diabetes … TMZ has reported.

Stephen’s son Nathan tells us … his father died at his home in Ventura Country, CA early Friday morning surrounded by loving friends and family. He and his brother Griff said about their dad … “He was a beloved husband, father and kind friend whose memory will always be a blessing.”

Furst battled with diabetes for years, and later became a spokesperson for the American Diabetes Association.

 

Gregg DeGuire/WireImage

The Hollywood Reporter:

His two sons Nathan and Griffith Furst announced the news on the actor’s Facebook page, paying tribute to their “brilliant and prolific actor and filmmaker” father.

“Steve has a long list of earthly accomplishments,” his sons said in the post. “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,” continues the post. “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.”

Several of his Animal House and Babylon 5 co-stars and friends took to social media on Saturday to remember Furst:

Ah, Flounder! You fucked up. You trusted us!
But we loved ya, Pal. Rest In Peace. http://fb.me/27UkaeQz3 

I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of my friend Steven Furst. A kind heart , great talent and beautiful human being.

@boxleitnerbruce

 

I just received news of the passing of another member of our family. Stephen Furst “Vir Cotto,” RIP, my friend.

On behalf of everyone who worked on Babylon 5, Stephen Furst will be missed profoundly and everlastingly.

See his sons’ full Facebook post below.

 

SOURCES:

STEPHEN FURST Flounder from ‘Animal House’ DEAD AT 63

Stephen Furst, ‘Animal House’ and ‘St. Elsewhere’ Actor, Dies at 63 (The Hollywood Reporter)