Harris Rosen
September 9, 1939 – November 25, 2024
Harris Rosen, a beloved father, grandfather, and pillar of the Central Florida community, passed away peacefully at the age of 85, surrounded by family and loved ones.
A man of extraordinary determination, humility, and compassion, Harris lived a life of purpose, leaving an indelible mark on the world through his unwavering dedication to giving back. While he will never be forgotten for his American Dream story - one that saw him grow from a young boy in New York's inner city, through Cornell and the Army, to Florida's largest independent hotelier - nor the magnificent Rosen Hotels & Resorts brand he created and nurtured over the course of 50 years, his true legacy shines through the countless lives he touched with his boundless generosity and steadfast commitment to helping underserved communities, advancing the fight against cancer, as well as supporting a multitude of health & education initiatives.
An angel to so many here on earth, he now takes his place among the angels in heaven, reuniting with his parents, Jack and Lee Rosen; his brother, Ron; his beloved son, Adam; in addition to a lifetime of treasured family dogs. He is carried forward in the hearts of his other children who he cherished beyond measure; his eldest son, Jack; second-eldest son, Joshua, along with his fiancée, Ariel; as well as his daughter Shayna, son-in-law Trey, granddaughter Riley, eagerly-anticipated second grandbaby, and granddogs, Dolce & Gabby. He also leaves behind the mother of his children, Trish; sister-in-law, Arlene; nieces & nephew, Nicole, Elise, and Glenn; and a circle of dear friends, including his Rosen Hotels & Resorts family, many of whom he worked alongside for decades.
Though the family asks for time and space to grieve this monumental loss, details of both a private Celebration of Life and public memorial will be shared in the near future. For now, they ask that you honor Harris's memory by striving to always "do the right thing" as was his lifelong credo, to love fiercely, live passionately, and savor every sunset. In lieu of flowers, donations to charities closest to his heart will be accepted with gratitude.
He will be profoundly missed, but never forgotten.
Adam Michael Rosen Foundation
https://amr-foundation.com/donate/
Stemming from his deepest pain and enduring love following his son's valiant fight against brain cancer, the Adam Michael Rosen Foundation offers critical funding to advancing research as well as supporting others battling the disease.
Rosen Aquatic & Fitness Center
https://www.rosenaquatic.com/support/donate/
As a former competitive swimmer who was far more often found in a swimsuit than a suit and tie, the RAFC served as Harris's daily escape into the calm of the water, while reflecting his lifelong passion for community, health & wellness.