I dont think he "got what he deserved", he died doing what he loved, and knew the risks etc. and I am glad he died doing what he loves rather than being mugged or hit by a bus.
He was a fantastic spokesman/ambasador for animals, the wild and Australia.
He was more famous than any Australian actor etc. according to your press, and I he came across as such a very genuine and kind person. He loved animals, and wanted to protect them and stop whaling/killing/poaching etc. all over the world. He put all his money into this, all his millions were put into his wild life funds. He didnt live a rich and fancy lifestyle, the money didnt change him.
Steve did some ridiculous things, was over the top, silly at times, and definitely a prankster at heart. But I thought he was awesome, a great aussie guy, a true entertainer, with a passion for what he loved doing that was unrivaled by anyone I've ever seen.
Ive been to his zoo long before he was famous, and that zoo was his baby, its a great place, and anyone headed to aus should check it out in QLD, hopefuly it will live long after steves death.
And those that argue that what he did was stupid, messing with dangerous animals, or agitating them etc. well I think the money he put into saving the worlds animals etc. and the positive press he gave animals/the wild and Australia, far outways the odd croc/snake/whatever that got pissed at steve poking them or holding them up for a few minutes.
RIP Steve Irwin, what a legend you were mate
.