Francis Philip LaTorre

RIVERSIDE, R.I. – Francis P. LaTorre, 71, died unexpectedly in Riverside, R.I. on Feb. 27, 2021.

Frank is best known in Portland for his position as the founder and director of Portland’s Public Assembly Facilities from 1981-2003. He was a visionary who knew that creating a Public Assembly Division within city government would increase the visibility, use and public access for the Portland Expo, Merrill Auditorium, and Hadlock Field. Frank’s fiscal insight and enthusiasm were instrumental for the committee that built Hadlock Field and helped bring the Sea Dogs to Portland.

Prior to Frank’s career with Portland’s Public Assembly Facilities, he was a natural food pioneer. Frank co-founded and managed the Hollow Reed Restaurant on Fore Street from 1974-1981. He took pride in creating and serving healthy organic and vegetarian dishes. The Hollow Reed has been credited with helping put Portland’s “Old Port” on the culinary map.

Frank is survived by his three children, Christine, Caroline and Gregory LaTorre.

Online condolences may be expressed at: http://www.wrwatsonfuneralhome.com/obituary/francis-p-latorre/