Frank Avruch, the entertainer best known for his portrayal of Bozo The Clown, has died.

Avruch was 89. He played Bozo on the legendary children’s television show Bozo the Clown from 1959 to 1970, becoming the first-ever Bozo to be nationally syndicated, and creating arguably the most recognizable portrayal of the character. According to a statement from his family, the entertainer died in his Boston residence from heart disease on Tuesday, March 20.

“He had a heart of gold,” said former manager Stuart Hersh, telling the Associated Press that “he brought the Bozo the Clown character to life better than anyone else’s portrayal of Bozo the Clown. … He touched so many people with his portrayal.”

In a statement released to WCVB-TV, his family said: “While it’s hard to say goodbye, we celebrate the legacy of joy and laughter he brought to millions of children around the world as Bozo the Clown on TV and as a UNICEF Ambassador and later as host of Channel 5’s Great Entertainment and Boston’s Man About Town. Our dad loved the children of all ages who remembered being on his show and was always grateful for their kind words. We will miss him greatly.”

Born and bred in the Boston suburb of Winthrop, Avruch was obsessed with the energy of the city and remained actively engaged in its community and culture throughout the course of his life. He attended the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism, and completed a bachelor’s degree in Communication at Boston University in 1949. Following his stint on Bozo the Clown, Avruch worked at WCTB-TV’s for over 40 years as the host of  Man About Town and The Great Entertainment. Known for his philanthropic work, he extensively toured the world as Bozo for UNICEF and was a board member for the organization’s New England chapter.

Over 200 actors have donned Bozo The Clown’s giant red wig over the years, and different versions of the show cropped up throughout America and in countries throughout the world. The role originated with actor Pinto Colvig in 1949. In 1956, the creative rights to the show were purchased by Larry Harmon, who took over duties as the titular clown. Aside from Avruch, the role was subsequently taken on by Willard Scott (1959-1962), Bob Bell (1960-1984), and Joey D’Auria (1984-2001). After Harmon purchased rights to the character, he began syndicating the series as Bozo the Clown. Avruch first cut his teeth on the role in a Boston iteration of the show called Bozo’s Circus before ultimately taking the role nationally.

He’s survived by his wife Betty, his sons Matthew and Steven, and several grandchildren.

Rest In Peace Frank Avruch; May 21, 1928 - March 20, 2018

Source: THR