The L.A. Swing Dance Community Loses a Talented Singer, Bandleader, Promoter, and Friend
On the early morning of Friday, October 31st, popular L.A. singer, band leader, promoter, Swing dancer, and friend, Mark Tortorici tragically passed away in a car accident. Here are the details from ktva.com news:
Thousand Oaks Man Killed In Solo Vehicle Crash
KVTA News Friday October 31, 2014
Updated–Deputies are investigating a fatal crash in Thousand Oaks overnight. It was reported shortly after 2:30 AM Friday in the 1300 block of Sunset Hills Boulevard. Deputies say it involved a solo vehicle into a tree. The driver, the only occupant of the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene. He’s been identified as 43-year-old Mark Tortorici of Thousand Oaks. Traffic investigators are looking into the cause of the crash.
I did not know Mark well, but I was a big fan of his work. In the early 2000’s, he was the lead singer of Jumpin’ Jimes, the Sunday night house band at the Derby. At the time, that was the “must go” night and it was always packed. I never missed a show if I could help it. Mark went on to organize and perform at events at Joe’s Great American Bar and Grill. Lately, he had been moving on to perform and promote events at other venues. His impact on the L.A. Swing dance scene was tremendous.
Mark’s Facebook wall is filled with photos, videos, and stories of his kindness and generosity. There is also information there for anyone who would like to contribute to his family or send consolation.
Mark’s funeral will be on Sunday, November 9th at 2PM in Thousand Oaks. Download funeral info here.
There will undoubtedly be musical tributes and performances coming up to remember Mark. It is a sad day in the L.A. Swing dance community. – Brian
Please Leave a Question or Comment
Very sad day! I thought that it was terrible that Mark was not going to be at Joe’s on Tuesdays.I’m glad that I was able to tell him many times how we all missed him & that Joe’s just wasn’t the same with out him. So very very sad.
I have corrected the day of Mark’s funeral to be on Sunday..
Brian, Thank you so much for posting the information and your tribute. I can see from all the posts and tributes on my Facebook page what an important person he was to his friends and to the swing community. I didn’t know Mark, being somewhat new to the swing community, but I missed his presence when he stopped promoting bands at Joe’s on Tuesday nights. And now, for him to pass away is terrible and so sad. I hope that we as the L.A.-area swing community can come together and support each other, and his family, at this sad time. –Kay