LAS VEGAS -- Michael Jackson's death is especially hard on local fans, including a Michael Jackson impersonator and a Las Vegas group that toured with Jackson.

Disbelief is the best way to describe the mood after Jackson's sudden death.

In fact, one man is determined to continue his memory on the Las Vegas Strip.

“I'm still in disbelief,” said Jackson impersonator Chris Gardner.

Dressed like the real King of Pop, Jackson impersonator Gardner was still greeting tourists and taking pictures, just hours after learning his idol suddenly passed away.

“There's only a few people on this planet who give a million percent. And he's one of them,” Gardner said.

Gardner met Jackson in Las Vegas several years ago at the Radio Music Awards.

In 2003, Mayor Oscar Goodman gave Jackson the key to the city.

“I was just knocked over when I heard he passed away. He was an icon. He really defined what an entertainer was all about, and I'm heartsick over it. Just heart sick,” Goodman said.

Jackson had plenty of friends in Las Vegas, including Australian vocal group Human Nature, whose members toured with the King of Pop in the mid-90s.

“We learned so much from watching such a massive concert and such an amazing entertainer. It inspired us so much when it comes to our live performing,” said Phil Burton, of Human Nature.

“The fact that we'll no longer get the chance to see him at his best in entertaining is sad,” said Michael Tierney, of Human Nature.

And these performers are determined to keep Jackson's memory alive for years to come.

“Just like Elvis. They still buy records, even though he's passed away. Sammy Davis Jr., Marilyn Monroe, James Dean -- I could go on and on. But Michael Jackson sits up with the legends,” Gardner said.

Jackson performed several times in Las Vegas with the Jackson Five, and he wrote the theme song used in Siegfried and Roy's show at the Mirage.