Winnipeg — The Canadian Press Published on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2008 2:59PM EST Last updated on Tuesday, Mar. 31, 2009 9:13PM EDT
Manitobans are mourning the death of the world's oldest polar bear.
Debby was a beloved icon at Winnipeg's Assiniboine Park Zoo ever since she was sent there from the Soviet Union in 1966.
She was put to sleep Monday after suffering from several strokes and organ failure.
Zoo co-ordinator Gordon Glover choked back tears as he remembered the majestic bear that has been at the zoo longer than any employee.
He says Debby lost her appetite over the weekend and had difficulty getting up.
Bear keeper Bob Sydor says she was a gentle bear and will be sorely missed.
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