Bozo the Clown's big red shoes have shuffled off this mortal coil

A number of fellas have played Bozo the Clown over the years. Frank Avruch was the best. The world became a little bit less joyful earlier this week in the wake of his death at the age of 89.

Avruch played Bozo on TV during the height of the clown's popularity in the 1950s through to the 1970s. When not in front of the camera, Avruch wore the clown's smiling face and big, floppy shoes as a UNICEF Ambassador, bringing happiness to kids around the world. In 2007, his efforts for UNICEF were recognized by the United Nations.

According to The Boston Globe, Avruch is survived by his with, two sons and a whack of grandchildren.