Private funeral for “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin

The family of Steve Irwin has declined the “generous government offer” of a state funeral and elected to hold a private service. Irwin’s father, Bob Irwin said “We have decided today that a private service will be held within the next seven days for family members and closest friends only.” He did say that the family has decided to hold “a full memorial service within the next two weeks at a suitable venue yet to be decided” as a result of the publics “sympathy and support.”

Declaring that his son would have shied away from any formal state funeral, the elder Irwin said “he’s an ordinary guy, and he wants to be remembered as an ordinary bloke.”

Steve Irwin shot to fame as the “Crocodile Hunter” and entertained millions of viewers with his willingness to bring a hands-on approach to wildlife education. His charismatic personality and complete devotion to wildlife conservation made him one of the most recognizable individuals in the world.

An improvised shrine has been set up at Australia Zoo where mourners have left flowers, flags, candles and khaki shirts in tribute to the man. The zoo was built by his father in 1970 and later became an international tourist attraction marked by Steve’s passion.

Irwin was killed earlier this week when a stingray’s barb pierced his chest while he was filming footage for a show.