Harris Rosen, Orlando hotelier and philanthropist, dies at age 85

ORLANDO, Fla. – Harris Rosen, the former Disney executive who created a hotel empire in Orlando and gave millions to help lift people out of poverty, has died.

Rosen died Monday morning at age 85, according to a statement from Frank Santos, vice president of Rosen Hotels and Resorts.

“Harris was an angel to so many here on earth and now he takes his place among the angels in heaven. A beloved father, grandfather and pillar of our community, his boundless generosity and love touched countless lives through his unwavering commitment to helping underserved communities, promoting education, advancing the fight against cancer and supporting health and wellness initiatives,” said Santos.

Rosen bought his first hotel on International Drive in 1973, and gradually built a hotel empire that included seven locations in the tourist area, including Rosen Shingle Creek Resort, Rosen Center and Rosen Plaza.

Rosen was also known in the community for his philanthropic work with scholarships, health and wellness facilities, and cancer research. That included the Tangelo Park program, which offers classes, preschool and scholarships to Tangelo Park kids who graduate from high school and go on to further their education. He started a similar program for children in the Parramore neighborhood.

This past year alone, he awarded nearly five dozen scholarships to graduates of Jones High School and Dr. Phillips High School.

He also helped to establish Rosen College of Hospitality Management at UCF to train the next generation of hospitality and tourism managers.

Rosen joined Matt Austin and Ginger Gadsden to talk about his life and work on Florida’s fourth estate a few years ago.

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