I remember the first time I saw the Crocodile Hunter on television.  He was bitten by a huge crocodile.  I was shocked and couldn’t wait to see what would happen next.  Steve responded in his enthusiastic Australian accent, “Whoa, that’s the best souvenir I could ever ask for.” My first thought was, “this dude is crazy!” He’d just been bitten by an oversized reptile and he appreciated it?

He might have been crazy but I couldn’t deny the fact he was fascinating to watch.  His adorable accent was enough to keep me interested. For years I continued watching Steve Irwin.  He actually made learning about wildlife intriguing to me.  I think everyone will agree that he was an easy watch; he was just such a likeable guy.  Even if people didn’t watch his show religiously, ask anyone and they could tell you who the Crocodile Hunter was… So when I heard he passed away this weekend, I was devastated.  This news hit me hard as I’m sure it did many others.  I can’t help to become so sad when someone so wonderful, and who makes so many positive influences in this world, passes away.  This is such a sad moment.  I have to do everything in my power to stop myself from screaming, “WHY, why him?” One of the most amazing, genuine men on earth is gone.  It is truly ironic that he was taken by a stingray, considering he was at one with all animals. When watching him interact with wildlife it was apparent that he had a deep connection with all animals he came in contact with.  It’s no shock that Steve Irwin’s passion in life was wildlife.  That said, I think it’s safe to say Steve probably wouldn’t have wanted to go any other way. 

He is survived by his wife and his little girl, probably the two luckiest people on earth.  Anyone that got to spend their lives with such an amazing man our truly blessed by God in my eyes.

Steve Irwin “Crocodile Hunter” will be forever missed.

I’ll end this tribute with a poem by a man named Jim T. Henriksen.

In Loving Memory

You left too soon.
You made a mark.
You caught the moon.
You were a lark.

You died too young.
You flew too high.
You sang your song.
You had to die.

You made us smile.
You made us glad.
But most of all,
you made us sad.