Family and friends gathered on Sunday to say their goodbyes to the extraordinary animal lover, Steve Irwin. The "Crocodile Hunter" was buried at a private funeral service at his Australia Zoo over the weekend.

The wildlife expert - who was killed last Monday, aged 44, by a stingray - was laid to rest in a campfire service attended by friends and family who shared their favorite stories of his life.

Steve's father, Bob Irwin, said, "It was what he would have wanted and it put some final closure to his life."

Wes Mannion, director of the Australia Zoo, paid tribute to Steve, who he described as a "100 miles per hour" type of guy.

"I don't think you can ever fill that void. I'll remember Steve as my best mate. He was like my big brother, he was my hero," said Mannion.

A public memorial service for the late T.V. star will be held either tomorrow or on Wednesday at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium.

Steve's friend and manager John Stainton said the remembrance ceremony would be a "celebration" rather than a mourning session.

"Steve would not have wanted us to have everyone around crying and saying how sad it was," he said.

Steve's widow Terri and children, Bindi, eight, and two-year-old Bob, are set to make their first public appearance after the tragedy at the memorial service.

RELATED PHOTOS AND ARTICLES
Steve Irwin - Master and Commander - The Far Side of the World Movie PremiereSteve Irwin - Master and Commander - The Far Side of the World Movie PremiereSteve Irwin - Master and Commander - The Far Side of the World Movie PremiereSteve Irwin - Master and Commander - The Far Side of the World Movie PremiereSteve Irwin - Master and Commander - The Far Side of the World Movie PremiereSteve Irwin - Master and Commander - The Far Side of the World Movie Premiere
Philippe Cousteau Recalls Steve Irwin's Tragic DeathTerri Says Irwin Death Tape Has Been Destroyed
Bindi Irwin Aspires To Become "Wildlife Warrior" Like DadTerri Irwin Says "People Should Love Stingrays"
Widow Of The Late "Crocodile Hunter" Still Coming To Terms With Husband's DeathTerri Irwin Says Life Without Steve Is Difficult
READER COMMENTS (3)
September 11, 2006 - 01:43PM
Steve Irwin loved the wildlife with a passion that he wanted to protect them and educate us to their dangers. He was and is a hero Not only to the wildlife but to all those that watched his shows. He showed so much enthusiasm in life itself that it was felt by all. He will be missed by all. My heart and prayers go out to his family, especially Terri, Bindy and Bob. And his best mates, his dad and closest friend of 28 yrs. I can not think of any greater loss to the world. Steve, you will always be an idol and hero to all mankind. Kay Lovett from In.
September 12, 2006 - 04:51AM - Thumperfive
he did so much for the world in the area of conservation and will never be forgotten - his kids will always know how much the world loved him.
September 17, 2006 - 06:04PM
Steve Irwin can be summed up in one word WOW. He will be missed by many, but if anybody can compare to him it will be is daughter Bindi with the help of her lovely mother and Steve's best mate Wes. To all Steve's family and friends i'm deeply sorry for your loss.