The circus community is mourning the death of world famous circus owner and performer.  Long time Sarasota resident Allan Hill once owned and managed the Great American Circus.

His death yesterday came as a shock.  Many people had only just learned he had lung cancer.

Although he'll never be forgotten for his contributions to the circus, many say he'll be most remembered as a friend who would never let you down.

Allan Hill owned several circuses.  The most famous, The Great American Circus.  "He had a nice tent circus that was the envy of many circus owners.  He put on a good performance with skilled performances.  He had a nice heard of performing elephants," recalls retired circus performer John Herriott.

Renowned animal trainer Kay Rosaire worked with him often.  She says circus performers everywhere are mourning Hill's death.  For many, he was a lifeline.  "He gave a lot of people jobs for many, many years.  The show traveled all over the northeast.  For years it was a full show, full acts, so it gave a lot of people employment.

Although Hill performed an arial act at one time, circus fans say he's best known for his management and promotion skills.

"He's a guy who was one of the greatest promoters of circus in the U.S.  He was the one who invented methodology of going out there and promoting," says Pete Adams, President of Circus Fans of America.

Tony Bartok, from four generations of circus performers, is now an international performer and star.  He says Allan Hill gave him his start as a ringmaster when he was 14, and soon added the wildly popular Tiny Tim to the show.

He says Hill taught him many great lessons.  "He never forgot those who helped him when he was down so he made sure he would help them when they needed it, and sometimes all it took was an encouraging word."  And now Bartok remembers his friend with the circus performers memorial prayer.

Circus folks and entertainers are coming to Sarasota from all over the world next week for Allan Hill's services.

His viewing will be monday from 5 to 8pm at Toale Brothers Colonial Chapel on Orange Ave.  And his funeral will be held at St. Martha Catholic Church Wednesday at 9:30 am.