Bobby Zarin has lost his battle against cancer.
The husband of Real Housewives of New York City star Jill Zarin, Bobby passed away on Saturday while surrounded by family members and loved ones.
He was 71 years old.
In tribute to her late soulmate, Jill posted an official statement on her website on behalf of the family.
It reads as follows:
“With the heaviest of hearts, we are devastated to share the news that our beloved Bobby Zarin passed away peacefully today surrounded by family after a courageous battle with cancer.
“There are no words to describe how heartbroken we are. Thank you, everyone for all your love, and support during this difficult time.”
Along with this simple and sentimental message, the website included a photo of Bobby in a suit.
Here it is:
Bobby Zarin was initially diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2009.
He went on to have his thyroid removed, while also undergoing radioactive iodine treatment in an attempt to overcome the very serious illness.
“He’s in a better place now,” said friend and fellow Bravo personality Ramona Singer to E! News.
In July of 2015, Bobby spoke to People Magazine about the diagnosis and treatment.
“The radioactive iodine usually kills off whatever undetectable cancer cells are left in your body after surgery,” he explained at the time, adding:
“We thought it was cured – and it usually is in about 93 percent of cases. But I wasn’t able to absorb the radioactive iodine. So it came back.”
In emotional footage shared on her Instagram page back on December 3, Jill discussed how her husband was in the hospital and “was [doing] okay.”
But she clearly knew the end was sadly near.
“I’m just going to miss Bobby,” she said tearfully in this video. “I’m going to miss my life with him.”
Although the Real Housewives of New York City veteran tried to be optimistic throughout Bobby’s treatment, she said “his cancer took an unexpected turn” over the summer.
In July of last year, Bobby was admitted to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, where he recovered from a procedure related to his disease.
“He is not going down without a fight,” Jill told People. “We’re hoping for a miracle.”
The couple was married for 17 years at the time of Bobby’s death.
In addition to Jill, Bobby is survived by his children – David Zarin, 41, Jennifer Zarin, 38, Jonathan Zarin, 35; along with 25-year-old stepdaughter Ally Shapiro.
A service for Bobby will be held at a Riverside Memorial at a yet-to-be determined date.
Our thoughts go out to Jill Zarin and all others affected by this tragedy.
May Bobby Zarin rest in peace.
