Duluth’s Great Lakes Aquarium Suffers Heartbreaking Loss

This is heartbreaking news, especially for those that frequent Great Lakes Aquarium. An announcement on their social media pages Wednesday (August 26th) has broken hearts everywhere.

Staff at the Duluth attraction shared that they have officially said goodbye to one of their most beloved animals. Fitzgerald has passed away. Fitzgerald was the resident Giant Pacific Octopus.

Get our free mobile app

This news isn't entirely shocking. Late last year, staff at the attraction shared that Fitzgerald had started laying eggs, which signals the end of life phase has begun.

This happened in October, and staff have been preparing to say goodbye ever since. However, that doesn't make it any easier for those that have cared for Fitzgerald every day.

Nick Cooper - TSM Duluth

Fitzgerald Passes Away - Read The Sad Announcement

The beloved octopus officially passed away on Wednesday (August 26th), with an announcement made shortly after. Staff also mention that they made the decision to euthanize the octopus after consulting with a vet.

RELATED: National Parks You Can Road Trip To From Northern Minnesota

I never got the chance to see Fitzgerald but it is obvious that he was a favorite at the aquarium. In the emotional farewell, staff mention that Fitzgerald loved interacting with visitors and will be greatly missed. So sad!

Staff end their somber note by reassuring everyone that they will be giving updates very soon. They also ask everyone to keep the staff and those that loved the animal in their thoughts, as something like this is never easy.

RELATED: An Endangered Bird Is Now Nesting Again On Wisconsin Point

I am definitely thinking of everyone who loved Fitz. I love the Great Lakes Aquarium and all they do for our region!