Bennett services set Friday at Ham Hall

Monday, Jan. 6, 2003 | 10:53 a.m.

SUN STAFF REPORT

A memorial service for Sahara hotel owner William G. Bennett will be 10 a.m. Friday at Artemus Ham Hall at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Sahara officials said today.

Bennett, former chairman of Circus Circus Enterprises, died Dec. 22 in Las Vegas at 78.

Parking for the services will be available at the north end of the UNLV Foundation building and at the school's parking garage.

Bennett began his gaming career 37 years ago with Del Webb hotels, including the Mint, which now is part of the Horseshoe.

In 1974, Bennett and Bill Pennington purchased Circus Circus from founder Jay Sarno.

Bennett's 20 years at the helm of Circus Circus Enterprises included overseeing the opening of the Excalibur and Luxor resorts.

In 1995, after leaving Circus Circus, Bennett purchased the Sahara and oversaw renovation of the Morocco-themed resort.

Donations can be made in Bennett's memory to the Bennett Foundation, 2535 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas NV 89109, relatives said.

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