http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599...6-1702,00.html

I shed a tear for the Irwin family today. Regardless of how crazy, stupid, and/or annoying as he may have seemed, he was a good man. Everyone should mourn the loss of a good man.

That's so sad! Some coworkers and I were just talking about him the other night. Thanks for posting this. I hate to hear it...his poor kids!!!

Kim

Wow. I feel so terrible for his family. Sorry to hear it.

Yeah - such a shame. But I think he knew it was bound to happen that way!

No way!! I had not heard this! This is really sad. Yeah, he took risks, but he knew what he was doing. He was incredible with animals, and he loved animals that i wouldn't go near. all animals were beautiful to him. God bless his family. This is just too sad.

I heard this! I actually couldn't believe of all the animals it was a sting ray. In many parts of the world they have been tamed for fishermans and visitors. Its usually never fatal. It was only fatal cuz it directly pierced his heart (bad luck). I agree, he knew what he was doing, but of all the ways and all the animals. I'm sure he would prefer this than dying old from some crippling disease. I feel bad for his family though.

From what I understand, what he was doing at the time was very common for many tourists.

The sting ray was hidden beneath the sand as he swam over it. It's not always fatal to be stung, but the stinger struck him right in the heart.

Somehow, I picture him in heaven laughing saying, "Crikey! A STINGRAY?" I feel sorry for his wife and kids, but at least he went out doing what he loved the most.

This was so sad to wake up to this morning. My son is a huge fan of his. I haven't told him yet I know he will be sad. My prayers are with his wife and young children. His son is only 3.

I still cant believe it!
He was such a wonderful man!
I hope the human race is better for what he has done in his lifetime!

It was really hard to tell my kids, they love him so much!

I can't believe Steve Irwin is dead. I've watched and loved and cheered him for years now. Back when he first started, with a small budget and a tiny boat and him and Terri in a tent on their honeymoon. She was so funny back then, very timid and unsure. Under Steve's guidance and with his love and support, she blossomed into the sensible, level-headed and strong woman that she is today. I am so sad. He was so passionately committed to conservation and wildlife. I know he's been accused of carelessness and alot of other things but I think mostly, it was just his passion for raising awareness (and his passion for the creatures he studied!) that took him so close.

It may sound really stupid but I guess maybe he died doing what he loved most. I feel for his wife, Terri, and his children, Bindi and Robert.

May his legacy live on.

Exactly my thoughts! Steve was such an adventurer! My DH is a big fan and our Border Collie Bindy is named after his and Terri's DD Bindi Sue.

I know that there are many fans who mourn his passing ... I guess after so many close calls, his number was up. We have pretty much been glued to the TV today watching all the different remembrances.

God bless His wife and kids. Terri must be devastated they loved each other so much. But he did die doing what he loved. This is the 2nd "celebrity" whose death has made me cry.