By Benson Judge | Published: June 16, 2026
MICHIGAN — Dr. Brian Parkhurst, a respected Michigan chiropractor, business owner, and wildlife conservation advocate whose work touched both patients and nature enthusiasts across West Michigan, has died unexpectedly.
His passing was announced by Parkhurst Chiropractic & Lakeshore Wellness Center, which shared that Dr. Parkhurst died on Sunday, June 14, 2026.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing away of Dr Brian Parkhurst on Sunday, June 14, 2026,” the clinic said in a public statement. “We appreciate your concern and know that your hearts are with us all at this time.”
The announcement prompted an outpouring of condolences from patients, colleagues, wildlife supporters, and members of the West Michigan community who knew Dr. Parkhurst through his healthcare practice and conservation efforts.
A Career Dedicated to Service
For many residents of Michigan, Dr. Parkhurst was known first as a healthcare professional committed to improving quality of life through chiropractic care.
As a leader at Parkhurst Chiropractic & Lakeshore Wellness Center, he built a reputation for patient-centered treatment and community engagement. Friends and supporters frequently described him as someone who viewed healthcare as more than a profession, embracing a service-oriented approach that prioritized long-term wellness and personal relationships.
The clinic announced that operations would continue despite the loss, stating that it would remain open “serving the community we love” in honor of the mission established by Dr. Brian Parkhurst and Dr. Karla Parkhurst.
That commitment reflects a legacy rooted in continuity of care and dedication to the communities the practice has served over the years.
Championing Wildlife Conservation in West Michigan
Beyond healthcare, Dr. Parkhurst earned widespread recognition as Founder and President of Falconshire Raptors West Michigan, an organization focused on wildlife education, raptor conservation, and public engagement with Michigan’s natural ecosystems.
His work helped connect thousands of viewers to the lives of bald eagles and other birds of prey through educational programming, conservation initiatives, and live-streamed wildlife monitoring projects.
Just two days before his death, Dr. Parkhurst issued a detailed public statement addressing concerns surrounding a young bald eagle named Scout, whose condition had become the focus of significant public attention.
The statement demonstrated both his scientific understanding of wildlife management and his commitment to public education. He explained that intervention was restricted under federal wildlife protection laws while outlining contingency plans involving veterinarians, licensed rehabilitation facilities, rescue teams, and university experts.
“I am deeply grateful to our team at Falconshire Raptors, our volunteers, supporters, viewers, and the entire West Michigan community for your compassion and support,” Dr. Parkhurst wrote on June 12.
He concluded by encouraging stewardship of the natural world, describing the bald eagle as both a national symbol and a reminder of humanity’s responsibility to protect wildlife habitats.
A Voice of Expertise and Community Trust
Those familiar with Dr. Parkhurst’s work often viewed him as someone who successfully bridged multiple fields of service.
Whether treating patients, educating the public about wildlife conservation, or coordinating with experts and volunteers, he consistently demonstrated a commitment to community engagement and practical leadership.
His final public message reflected qualities that supporters frequently associated with him throughout his career: compassion, expertise, patience, and a deep appreciation for both people and nature.
The response following news of his death suggests the breadth of his influence. Tributes from patients highlighted his care and professionalism, while conservation supporters remembered his dedication to protecting wildlife and educating future generations.
Remembering Dr. Brian Parkhurst
Dr. Parkhurst’s unexpected death leaves a significant void in both the healthcare and conservation communities of West Michigan.
His professional legacy extends beyond the walls of his clinic and beyond the wildlife projects he championed. It lives on through the individuals he helped, the educational initiatives he supported, and the conservation efforts he helped advance.
For many, he will be remembered as a healthcare provider who cared deeply for his patients, a conservation advocate who inspired appreciation for the natural world, and a community leader whose work reflected a lifelong commitment to service.
Funeral and Memorial Information
According to the family’s official announcement, funeral and memorial service details have not yet been publicly released.
- Location: To be announced.
- Date & Time: To be announced.
- Protocol: The family and business have requested privacy as they mourn. Information regarding memorial services, public attendance, livestreaming options, or charitable contributions will be shared if and when the family chooses to release additional details.
Dr. Parkhurst is survived by family members, colleagues, patients, conservation partners, and a community that benefited from his dedication to healthcare, education, and wildlife stewardship.
Editorial Note: This obituary has been prepared using verified public statements released by Parkhurst Chiropractic & Lakeshore Wellness Center and Falconshire Raptors West Michigan. At the time of publication, Dr. Parkhurst’s age and additional biographical details have not been publicly disclosed. This article will be updated should the family release further information.