Chet Juszyk News Article
Posted By thecircusblog on March 7, 2009
This picture was taken just before Chet Juszyk was mauled by Brutus, one of his lions. This occurred during a performance at Jungleland. Chet survived the attack but needed months of medical attention and rehabilitation. I saw him months later and was relieved that he was doing well.
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thecircusblog
My name is Ivan M. Henry and I am the 4th generation of a circus/show business dynasty. I hope you enjoy the blog.Comments
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Chet’s attack by Brutus lion occurred on Sunday, February 28, 1965. See further details under the LOU REGAN photo earlier in this set. Special thanks to Ivan for this extensive collection on the big cat people.
I was lifelong friends with Chet Juszyk and his wife Joanne (‘Jo’). Their son Mike and daughter Sandy went from elementary through highschool with my siblings and I.
After Chet’s very disabling accident he and Jo would shuttle us kids around in their black ’63 Chevy station wagon to various activities. They were like second parents to all of us neighborhood kids.
As of this date, 25 Jan. 2026, Joanne is still alive in her mid 90’s. Her son is taking good care of her. Chet would be proud. He was the best guy ever and endured a life of pain. RIP Chet. – Jim