Duke, Beloved Dexter Steer At Popcorn Park, Dies at 18

Duke's physical presence awed patrons. But his Popcorn Park caretaker remembers the half-ton-plus Dexter steer for his friendliness and playfulness. Duke, 18, died last Sunday.

It was too dangerous for staff to get inside Duke's enclosure because of his playfulness at his strength. But he always showed physical affection at the fence, according to caretaker Mike Pisano.

Duke loved getting his head and neck scratched. Then he would reposition himself for what he really wanted: a butt scratch, Pisano said.

"What really stood out with Duke was his kind and friendly manner," Pisano wrote in a heartfelt Facebook post. "Anyone who knew him well, knew he meant no harm, even if his size and strength made him a formidable fellow."

Duke's grand eyes showed purity, innocence and the honesty that animals offer to anyone willing to open their eyes and look, Pisano said. The look in his eyes helped people understand why Associated Humane Societies does the work they perform.

"Goodbye, Duke. You will be missed," Pisano said. "Thank you for everything."

Photos provided by Associated Humane Societies