In Memoriam - Steve Irwin
Sep 06, 2006In Memoriam
Steve Irwin
1962 – 2006
It must have been about ten years ago when I first saw Steve Irwin. While channel surfing, I happened upon a show on the Discovery Channel. A sandy haired Australian in short pants was sitting on a crocodile. I had to stop and watch, wondering who is that crazy son of a bitch?
That bloke was Steve Irwin, The Crocodile Hunter. I have been a fan ever since. For the last decade, when I needed to unwind, I would check out the schedule on Animal Planet and find Stevo. I know his crocs by name, enjoyed his amazing love affair with his wife Terri, watched Bindi grow up and saw Bob being born.
In spite of myself, I also learned more about nature and conservation than I ever expected to learn. And, I came to value crocodiles and snakes as beautiful living creatures that deserve to be here just as much as I do.
This larger than life man came to us when we needed a larger than life presence in the world. His love of life and passion about his work came through in every appearance he did. As with most larger than life figures, I can think of no one to fill his shoes. He leaves a legacy that will live on, to be sure. He is living proof that it is possible to live a life filled with passion, and to love the work you do.
Terri, Bindi, Bob, and everyone at Australia Zoo, I offer my heartfelt condolences.
Stevo, Godspeed. We will miss you.
