KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — As Zoo Knoxville's only remaining elephant, Tonka, receives end-of-life care, families, like the Drivers, reflect on decades with the beloved elephant.
"I was two or three when my mom would take me and my dad would take me," Jordan Driver said. "It was amazing. Because you're so little, and they're so gigantic."
Jordan and his wife Katie had their first date at the zoo. Then, they got engaged during 'Zoo Lights.' On April 7th, they got married near the giraffe exhibit.
"The giraffes decided they didn't want to be part of the ceremony," he said. "But luckily, Tonka of course came through for us."
They took photos and did a champagne toast near the elephant barn.
The Drivers said their daughter loves Tonka. She had her first birthday party there. The couple said they had to break the news to her they wouldn't be able to see her favorite animal at the zoo.
"I said, 'Well, sweetie, he's gonna rest now'" Jordan said. "He's done a lot for a lot of people. And he's made a lot of people happy. She understands."
The Driver's said Tonka was part of their love story. They're thankful for all the memories.
"The zoo won’t be the same without him," Katie Driver said. "I’m so sad that he’s in pain. We wish him peace and happiness and comfort in the days to come."
Zoo Knoxville staff is working on keeping Tonka comfortable in his barn. He is not on view for the public so he can rest.