The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is mourning the loss of one of its most cherished inhabitants. Ivan, an 11-year-old western lowland gorilla, passed away on Wednesday during a medical procedure after suffering a cardiac arrest, the zoo confirmed yesterday. Details of the medical procedure he was undergoing were not released, as per WTAE.

Gorillas, much like us, have hearts that are vulnerable to cardiac issues. Despite showing no prior signs of heart problems, Ivan was provided with additional specialist care, including the engagement of cardiologists for his medical procedure—a standard precaution given a gorilla's propensity for heart disease, WPXI reported. The zoo has stated that a post-mortem examination is underway to determine the exact cause of death.

Remembering Ivan, who was born in the zoo on April 11, 2013, Kelsey Forbes, the Curator of Mammals, reflected on his endearing traits and the joy he brought to the staff and visitors alike. "Ivan was hand-raised by extremely hard-working staff and volunteers who spent 24 hours a day with him for about five months before they were able to successfully reintroduce him to his troop," Forbes told WPXI. "He was known and loved for his deep happy rumbles and playful personality. He always put a smile on keepers' faces with his antics." The zoo encourages anyone who harbored fond memories of Ivan to share them on social media.