The BWI Business District, a thriving economic hub in Maryland, is saddened by the passing of Lou Zagarino, a pioneer and icon who contributed immensely to the development and growth of the area. Zagarino, who was 73 years old, died on September 12, 2023, after a long battle with cancer.
A legacy of innovation and service
Zagarino was a visionary entrepreneur who founded several successful businesses in the BWI Business District, including Whitehall Management LLC, a real estate development and management company; and The Westin Baltimore Washington Airport Hotel, a luxury hotel that serves travelers and business people. He also owned and operated several restaurants, such as The Chop House and The Elkridge Furnace Inn.
Zagarino was not only a savvy businessman, but also a generous philanthropist and a civic leader. He served on the board of the BWI Business Partnership, a nonprofit organization that promotes the interests of the BWI Business District, where he was a past board chair. He also served on the boards of the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center, the Maryland Economic Development Corporation, and the Maryland Chamber of Commerce.
Zagarino was known for his passion for aviation and his support for the BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport, which is the centerpiece of the BWI Business District. He was instrumental in advocating for the expansion and improvement of the airport, as well as fostering collaboration among various stakeholders in the region. He was also an avid pilot who flew his own plane and participated in air shows.
A tribute from the community
The BWI Business District community expressed its condolences and gratitude to Zagarino and his family. Many people shared their memories and stories of working with him and learning from him.
Sam Smith, the CEO of the BWI Business Partnership, said that Zagarino was a mentor and a friend to him and many others. “Lou was a remarkable person who had a vision for the future of this region. He was always looking for ways to create opportunities and solve problems. He was also very generous with his time and resources. He helped countless people and organizations in this community. He will be greatly missed,” Smith said.
Linda Greene, the president and CEO of the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, said that Zagarino was a leader who inspired others to follow his example. “Lou was a champion for business and economic development in Maryland. He was always willing to share his insights and experiences with others. He was also very supportive of our initiatives and programs at the chamber. He was a role model for many entrepreneurs and executives in this state,” Greene said.
Dr. Nevin Kessler, the president of the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center, said that Zagarino was a benefactor who made a difference in the lives of many patients and staff. “Lou was a generous donor who supported our hospital’s mission and vision. He helped us provide quality health care services to our community. He also cared deeply about our staff’s well-being and morale. He often visited our hospital and brought gifts and treats to our employees. He was a friend to our hospital,” Kessler said.
A celebration of life
Zagarino is survived by his wife, Susan; his children, Lisa, Michael, and David; his grandchildren, Olivia, Sophia, Lucas, and Leo; his siblings, Frank, Mary Ann, John, and Joseph; and many other relatives and friends.
A celebration of life service will be held on September 20, 2023, at 11:00 am at The Westin Baltimore Washington Airport Hotel. The service will be followed by a reception at The Chop House. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lou Zagarino Memorial Fund at the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center.
