Steve Irwin’s loved ones are remembering his impact on the 20th anniversary of his death.
In an Instagram post shared Friday, the Crocodile Hunter’s wife, Terri Irwin, reflected on the final days she and her children, Bindi and Robert, spent with her late husband.
“After 20 years, grief still walks with me like my shadow,” she wrote. “With the passing of time, I have gained more perspective and understanding.”
Irwin died on Sept 4, 2006, at the age 44 after a stingray struck him in the heart while he worked on the underwater film Ocean’s Deadliest in Australia.
Terri said the family travelled there together, giving them the chance to spend time with Irwin in the lead-up to his tragic death.
“We were together as a family, on our crocodile research expedition, for what was to be our final six weeks together. Ours was to be a long and sweet goodbye,” Terri recalled.
“Steve spent time with Bindi and Robert building swings and climbing trees,” she continued, “We all slowed down. Time slowed down. I believe that all of us, every one of us, gets to say goodbye. We just may not know that we’re saying it. Hold every moment dear with the ones you love. Until we meet again.”
Bindi responded in the comments, writing: “I love you so much, Mum. You are the strongest woman I know.”
In her own tribute, 28-year-old Bindi remembered her father as “the most passionate and dedicated wildlife conservationist.” Her post also included footage of Irwin discussing the moment Terri gave birth to her in the hospital.
“Our family lost our superhero,” she continued. “My mum lost the love of her life; my brother and I lost the greatest dad,” Bindi wrote in the caption. “Grief never truly leaves us; we walk alongside it every day. Where there is enormous grief, there is even greater love.”
Bindi also revealed her that her five-year-old daughter has started to watch Irwin’s documentaries, adding that she has come to call him “Grandpa Crocodile.”
“My dad left a lasting impact so poignant that it will ripple out for generations to come,” she wrote. “I believe with my whole heart that his love will live on forever.”
Irwin’s son, Robert, now 22 years, shared multiple posts paying tribute to his late father on Friday. The first read: “Your legacy is forever.” Another featured a video montage of memories. – New York Daily News/TNS
