Article content

Windsor has lost one of its most energetic advocates with the sudden passing of local businessman, entrepreneur, and downtown booster Mark Boscariol.

Known throughout the city as a restaurateur and property owner, Boscariol unexpectedly died early Thursday at the age of 51.

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or Windsor business owner and downtown booster Mark Boscariol dies Back to video

The suspected cause of death was a heart attack.

Photo by Dalson Chen / Windsor Star

Within minutes of confirmation of Boscariol’s passing, members of the community took to social media and each other to express their shock and grief.

“I’ll share my thoughts when I’m done crying,” wrote Windsor’s Ward 4 Councillor Chris Holt in a Facebook post.

Vincent Georgie, executive director of the Windsor International Film Festival, also needed to compose himself before paying tribute to Boscariol — who was one of WIFF’s founders.

“For me, Mark was the King of Downtown Windsor,” Georgie said. “He has done a tremendous amount for the community.”

“This is not hyperbole. His energy was endless. Mark was magic,” Georgie said. “It’s a great loss.”