Steve Irwin, Australia's most famous zookeeper and conservationist, died on September 4, 2006, after being pierced by a stingray while filming Ocean's Deadliest -a nature documentary. Eleven years after his death, his memory is still fresh in the minds of millions who were inspired and awed by him.
Born to parents who were wildlife experts, Irwin gained fame through his TV series, The Crocodile Hunter. He has also featured in shows like The Ten Deadliest Snakes in the World, The Crocodile Hunter Diaries, Croc Files, and so on. He was chiefly admired for his courage, spirit, and his love towards wildfire.
"I have no fear of losing my life - if I have to save a koala or a crocodile or a kangaroo or a snake, mate, I will save it", he had once said.
Irwin met American naturalist Terri Raines at his wildlife park, Australia Zoo, in 1992. It was love at first sight for both of them, and they got married within one year. They have two children: Bindi Sue Irwin and Robert Clarence Irwin.
At the occasion of Australian Fathers' Day on September 3, Bindi Irwin shared a video on Instagram of her 3-year-old self, helping Steve film a documentary. In a heartfelt message accompanying the video, Bindi talks about the values her father believed in. "Life is always changing and evolving and I'll always be thankful that I learned so much from my dad. He taught me to treat every being on Earth the way you would wish to be treated. From the tiny ants to the enormous elephants. We are all connected and must respect each other to live in true harmony," reads her post.
Even years after his death, his kindness and inspire awe in millions. He was, no doubt, an animal lover in the truest sense.
Check out these thrilling videos of Steve handling world's most deadliest animals:
Sources: Wikipedia, YouTube, Instagram.
