Steve Irvin 1962-2006

I was quite shocked to hear the death of Steve Irvin, popularly known as 'The Crocodile Hunter' who died at just 44. Steve died of an attack by a stingray while he was shooting an underwater documentary.
I have been watching his programes since when I was in school. I remember watching him in Animal Planet and Discovery everyday after returning from school. I always found him to be a very enthusiastic, fearless and animal loving person.
Steve was a great environmentalist, and promoted the cause of conservation of wildlife. He traveled around the world to spread awareness of wildlife conservation, and became popular among animal lovers around the world. He was most popular for his fearless handling of snakes and crocodiles. He was also the owner and operator of the Australian Zoo, which is home to a variety of wildlife from around the world.
His public image was dented a couple of years ago when he triggered a controversy by holding his 1-yr ols son within inches of a big crocodile.
The world has lost a great wildlife icon and a passionate conservationist. His death has certainly created a void in the animal loving world that can never be filled up.
He was almost never seen in anything but khaki shorts and shirt and heavy boots. I believe he was a very fortunate man as he was doing the work he loved so much and he was doing it even till his last breath.
RIP