Former minister of Tourism and director of Infratur, Fernando Rainieri Marranzini passed away earlier today, Tuesday, 6 October 2015, following a heart attack. He is best known for having led the initial launch of the north coast’s tourism development during its heyday when at the helm of the Infratur department. His death coincides with the arrival of the first cruise ship to Puerto Plata’s new Amber Cove cruise ship center on 6 October.
Rainieri served as president of the World Tourism Organization for the Americas and was a former president of the Dominican-Canadian Chamber of Commerce. A successful businessman in his own right, he had multiple investments in local companies, but was best known as the Bell helicopters representative in the Dominican Republic.
He also served as honorary consul of Australia and contributed to several foundations, including Save the Children (Fudeco).
He leaves his wife Pilar Soto and sons Giovanni and Fernando.
Fernando Rainieri was the brother of Frank Rainieri, founder of the Punta Cana legacy. He is being mourned at the Funeraria Blandino as of Wednesday, 7 October 2015 at 11am, with the burial set for 4pm.