The late conversationalist’s love for animals lives on through his wife and children, who have embraced his passion. His eldest child, now a family woman, honors his memory by leading projects that reflect his devotion to animals.
The Australian zookeeper Steve was married to a fellow conservationist, Terri, until his untimely death. The couple had two children, including a daughter who was eight years old at the time of his passing. Now 26, she continues his legacy.
Steve and Terri’s commitment to wildlife conservation not only defined their relationship but also laid the foundation for a family dedicated to preserving nature.
After meeting at the Australia Zoo, where they took their first photograph together, the couple married in June 1992. They welcomed their daughter in July 1998 and their son, Robert, in December 2003.
Life at the Australia Zoo provided a unique upbringing for their children, blending everyday chores with extraordinary experiences. In an interview, their daughter described her childhood as far from typical.
“My chores weren’t normal chores like loading the dishwasher,” she explained, describing how her responsibilities included both cleaning up elephant waste and assisting at the zoo’s wildlife hospital.
Over time, she transitioned from these early tasks to taking on a significant leadership role, working closely with her mother and the zoo’s director to advance their conservation efforts.
Steve’s daughter was eight years old when he passed away in September 2006 at the age of 44. Known worldwide as the khaki-clad crocodile expert, he captivated audiences through daring stunts showcased in shows like “The Crocodile Hunter,” which aired in over 100 countries.
During filming for “The Ocean’s Deadliest” near the Great Barrier Reef, a stingray fatally pierced Steve’s chest, causing cardiac arrest. Prime Minister at the time, John Howard, described him as “a wonderful character” and “a passionate environmentalist.” The naturalist’s untimely death brought to light his belief that his time might be short—a notion his wife shared during an interview over a year later.
Terri, Steve and Bindi Irwin at the premiere of “The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course,” 2002 | Source: Getty Images
“He wasn’t morbid about it, or awful about it, he was open and earnest about it. We’ve got to accomplish everything we can,” she stated. She described his exceptional intuition with wildlife and people as nothing short of remarkable.
While Steve’s work often involved dangerous encounters with animals, Terri also revealed that her worries stemmed more from his travels, unpredictable circumstances, and health risks. However, after becoming a father, her husband grew increasingly aware of these challenges, particularly as his responsibilities expanded.
Steve, Terri and Bindi Irwin attend the premiere of “The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course,” 2002 | Source: Getty Images
After years of grappling with her father’s loss, his daughter shared how deeply it continues to affect her, describing it as “like losing a part of your heart” that can never be replaced.
The TV personality recalled a moment during a routine crocodile show at the Australia Zoo, where footage of her father triggered an emotional response, even after countless viewings.
