Australia - Steve Irwin, the hugely popular Australian television personality and conservationist known as the "Crocodile Hunter," was killed Monday by a stingray while filming off the Great Barrier Reef. He was 44.
Irwin was famous for his enthusiasm for wildlife and his catchword "Crikey!" in his television program "Crocodile Hunter."
Irwin's American-born wife Terri, from Eugene, Ore., had been informed of his death, and had told their daughter Bindi Sue, 8, and son Bob, who will turn 3 in December.
rwin's body was flown first to the city of Cairns and then to Queensland state's Sunshine Coast, the location of his family home.
As fans from around the world mourned his death, it was announced that a state funeral for Irwin would be held if his family so chose, an Australian state premier said.
Steve ....... the world has lost a great animal lover..... He lived his passion and thrived in it... its trully a great loss for us all.... I initially hated and squirmed when ever i saw him on tv dueling a croc or snake but as time went on ... I started to look forward to watching his shows as his raw enthusiasm flooded thru the screen and engulfed me ... and now Im saddened by this loss... I feel like i have lost a friend someone close to me... someone i know.... I guess to a certain extent i do know him and his family both at home and in the Australian zoo as they were in my living room weekly.... I will miss him
My heartfelt condolonces to the family.... my prayers are with u all ther....
"CROC'S RULE"
