DJEMBE, BETTER KNOWN AS IVAN, DIED WEDNESDAY. | PHOTO COURTESY OF PITTSBURGH ZOO & AQUARIUM/PAUL SELVAGGIO

Gorilla hearts are similar to human hearts — and a lot of them are hurting after Djembe, the western lowland gorilla silverback better known as Ivan, died Wednesday at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium.

Born at the zoo on April 11, 2013, Ivan was hand-raised by zoo staffers and volunteers, who cared for him around the clock for about five months before successfully reintroducing him to his troop.

A favorite among visitors, Ivan died of a cardiac arrest while undergoing a medical procedure. There were no pre-existing health conditions, zoo officials said.

“He was known and loved for his deep happy rumbles and playful personality. He always put a smile on keepers’ faces with his antics,” Kelsey Forbes, curator of mammals, said in a statement.

The zoo welcomed community members to share their memories of Ivan on social media. Here’s what they had to say.

“We had an incredible time seeing him earlier this year for our daughter’s 1st visit to the zoo.” – Kaylee P.

“We’ve had a memory with him almost every time we’ve gone to the zoo. One time he sat in front of the window and scratched his armpit just staring at us. His eye contact with us and connection was so moving!” – Beth K.

“Some of our out of town family joined us as we sat the children down in front of the glass where Ivan was & he was “scolding” one of the younger gorillas. A couple of mine & my sister’s kids laughed & Ivan reached over & “tapped” the glass with his knuckles! Everyone in the area jumped & my kids still talk about that.” – Michelle M.

“So sad and shocked to hear about Ivan! He was actually my favorite of all the gorillas! I remember seeing him as a baby and watching him pick grass and beat his chest!” – JJ

“He and my daughter have had a couple staring contests. He will be sadly missed …” – Tracey Ann

“My heart goes out to the keepers and veterinarians who worked with Ivan, as well as to the rest of his troop.” – Barb B.

“The Gorillas are my favorite and I especially loved Ivan, he was so handsome. I just saw him on Tuesday.” – Debbie L.

“Ivan was so beautiful, inquisitive, playful, stoic at times, I will miss him terribly.” – Sonia T.

“Condolences to the zoo and all who will miss this magnificent animal. We always enjoyed seeing him at the zoo.” – Dee H.

“I remember how he would follow my son back and forth when my son was about 4 years old! Always a favorite!” – Dani L.

“What a beautiful boy he was.” – Lucinda K.