The world said goodbye to Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin today.  The memorial service held at Australia Zoo’s Crocoseum was broadcast around Australia, Asia & the U.S.  A khaki-clad choir sang as celebrities and friends alike came to say goodbye to the naturalist.  Irwin was killed 16 days ago by a stingray barb to the heart he received while snorkeling off the coast of Australia.

Steve’s father Bob was one of many to speak at the memorial service, “Please don’t grieve for Steve. He’s at peace now, but I’d like you to grieve for the animals, for the animals have lost the best friend they ever had, and so have I.”

A koala was seen sleeping in a nearby tree Irwin’s widow Terri held their young son Robert in her lap.

Irwin’s eight-year-old daughter Bindi also spoke saying, “My daddy was my hero, he was always there for me when I needed him.”

“We filmed together, caught crocodiles together and loved being in the bush together. I want to help endangered wildlife just like he did.”

A crowd of about 5,000 attended the memorial service and many celebrities had sent in video tributes.  Russell Crowe, Kevin Costner, Cameron Diaz, Larry King & Justin Timberlake all remembered Irwin though a video message.

Crowe stated in his tribute that Irwin’s death was “was completely unfair.”  The star went on to say, “We’ve all lost a friend, we’ve lost a champion.”

Goodbye Steve & good lucsteve-irwin