‘Love lives on’: Terri Irwin moves fans with tribute to Steve on the anniversary of his death

Steve Irwin impacted many people over his life, and no one knows that more than his widow Terri, who delivered a moving tribute to her late husband on the anniversary of his passing.

To mark 18 years since she lost her beloved husband, Terri recently took to social media to share a personal photo of her alongside Steve as they took in the picturesque views of Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain.

While Terri regularly delights fans with photos of Steve, this post was an especially emotional one.

“Love lives on,” she captioned the photo alongside a love heart emoji.

 

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A post shared by Terri Irwin (@terriirwincrikey)

Fans quickly responded to Terri’s message, with many expressing how much Steve meant to them.

“What a beautiful photo. I really miss Steve thanks for carrying on his legacy,” wrote one.

“He was my idol growing up. I even did a bio on him and class presentation in college 11 years ago. It’s crazy to think it’s been 18 years since that tragic day, long like the crocodile king,” wrote another

“This brought a tear to my eye ….so beautiful I know he is watching over you Terri and the kids! I remember seeing you all on TV for the first time many years ago, and the way he looked at you with such love in his eyes was so wonderful. We all miss him so much.”

While others commented on how irreplaceable Steve was.

“It’s been 18 years today since Steve died and she’s never had another boyfriend or mate. Steve is irreplaceable,” one wrote.

“Honestly I’m not surprised you never remarried. Who could follow THAT?! Thank you for keeping his memory and his mission alive,” added another.

Steve was born on February 22, 1962 and developed a love of wildlife from a young age. Growing up, Steve spent much of his childhood at the Queensland Reptile and Fauna Park which was owned by his family.

In 1991, he took over the park, later named Australia Zoo, which quickly became a hub for saving animals, especially crocodiles. Steve’s fearless nature and love for animals made him the perfect fit for television and in 1996, he and his wife co-hosted The Crocodile Hunter show.

Tragically, on September 4, 2006, Steve’s life was cut short while he was filming a documentary off the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland. In a shocking incident, he was struck in the chest by a stingray barb. Despite immediate medical attention, he succumbed to his injuries, leaving the world in mourning for the loss of a true Wildlife Warrior.

Steve’s passing was met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from all over the world, including fellow conservationists, celebrities, and fans who had been touched by his work. His legacy, however, continued through the tireless efforts of his family, who have remained committed to the cause of wildlife conservation.