If you haven't been on social media lately, you may be unaware that the Cincinnati Zoo made the executive decision to euthanize a beloved animal on October 31, 2017.

This animal was none other than Henry the Hippopotamus, the 36-year old Nile hippo that was famously known for fathering Fiona, the extremely adorable, prematurely-born calf. He sired six calves over the years while in captivity, but was paired with 18-year-old female Bibi at the time of his passing. They were inseparable mates whose cute, little hippo family took the nation by storm.

According to a statement put out by the Cincinnati Zoo, Henry had been ill for several months and was down hundreds of pounds. His illness stemmed from a complex infection which left him in a physical state he would never bounce back from. Officials from the zoo say that the decision was a difficult one to reach, but that they are confident that their choice to remove him from his state of suffering was the best option given his case. According to the average life expectancy of a Nile hippopotamus, he surpassed it by one year. A thorough animal autopsy will be scheduled and executed for research purposes.

If you recall the birth of baby Fiona back in January 2017, then you may understand the sense of loss felt by so many people across the nation and world today. Fiona was born six weeks early and struggled to survive at first. At 29 pounds, she was between 50 and 100 pounds lighter than the average newborn calve. She was nursed to health by zoo staff and was monitored as her body grew in size and strength.

When she was finally able to interact with her mother, Bibi, at the beginning of summer, and then father, Henry, on July 11, the world watched in awe as the little family met for the first time.

It is absolutely heartbreaking that Henry passed away due to illness, but it is comforting knowing that he is no longer suffering. Rest in piece big guy, and eat lots of watermelon up in Hippo Heaven!