Steve Irwin, a renowned Australian wildlife expert and conservationist, passed away suddenly on the morning of September 4, 2006 due to a stingray injury. He was 44 years old. Born on February 22, 1962, Irwin grew up in a household devoted to reptiles and animals. By the time he was a teenager, Irwin had already become an expert in handling crocodiles. He went on to become the owner of the Australia Zoo, a conservation facility for local endangered animals. Though he became beloved throughout the world for his eccentric and passionate approach to conservation, Irwin remained a highly committed activist, leading numerous animal conservation campaigns and scientific projects. He worked closely with the Queensland government to protect the Great Barrier Reef as well as traveling abroad to highlight animal conservation efforts. His television series, The Crocodile Hunter, which he starred in alongside his wife Terri, was one of the highest rated wildlife series in Australia's television history. Steve Irwin leaves behind his wife and two children, Bindi and Robert. He will be remembered for his endless enthusiasm and larger-than-life personality, and for dedicating his life to protecting wildlife and the environment.