From his roars that could be heard for miles to his love for his caretakers, Simba was a special part of the zoo's family, said John Bergmann, executive director of Popcorn Park Animal Refuge.

You could hear it through out the zoo which made everybody feel good. You know, you heard Simba,” Bergmann said. Popcorn Park has six big cats at the facility, including two lions and four tigers.