In Loving Memory: Associate Curator of Mammals Leaves Enduring Legacy

The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) family is heartbroken to announce the passing of Associate Curator of Mammals Betsie Meister.

Meister, 48, passed away peacefully on Aug. 26 following 24 years of service and dedication to the DZS. She leaves behind her loving husband and three children, countless family members and friends — and many of the animals she cared for throughout her career.

“Betsie Meister was an incredible leader, team member and friend throughout her time at the DZS, and her sudden and tragic passing has left an irreparable void in our hearts,” says Dr. Hayley Murphy, DZS executive director and CEO. “She truly embodied our mission and made an impact far beyond the borders of the Detroit Zoo.”

A lifelong animal lover, Meister pursued her passion for zoology in all things and always worked to ignite positive change for animals — both in human care and the wild. She began her post-college career at the DZS, where she steadily rose to become associate curator of mammals. Meister spent countless hours ensuring the mammals who called the Zoo home received the highest level of care, and one of her favorite tasks was building enrichment items for the animals.

Meister also served as the chair of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Bear Taxon Advisory Group and has been integral in the hand-rearing of several animals, including river otters, a red panda, a lion, a polar bear and a chimpanzee. Though she loved all the animals under her care, she held a special place in her heart for Barle, a rescued polar bear who called the Zoo home from 2002 to 2012

“Betsie was more than just a team member — she was a friend to many in all areas of the DZS,” Murphy says. “Her kindness, approachability and can-do attitude extended far beyond her role as associate curator of mammals. Betsie’s contributions to the DZS and the AZA community and her kind and positive spirit will be greatly missed.”