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“Gold Rush” star and great Alaskan miner John Schnabel died Friday at the age of 96.
The legendary gold miner died peacefully in his sleep Friday morning, his family said.
“Grandpa John lived a great life and was one of a kind. I am glad the world got to see an amazing man,” his grandson Parker Schnabel tweeted.
Schnabel was known for his work on the Discovery Channel show, which focused on the mining business within his family.
The military veteran purchased the Gold Nugget Mine in Porcupine Creek, Alaska roughly 30 years ago when he was advised by doctors to find a way to stay active.
At the time, Schnabel was recovering from a triple bypass surgery.
He eventually passed the business on to his grandsons Payson and Parker Schnabel.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better father, grandfather and overall family man,” the Schnabel family told People magazine.
“He was a true legend and we appreciate all of your love and support as we celebrate his wonderful life,” they continued.
The network which made the family famous dedicated a two-hour special to Schnabel’s memory on Friday night.