Brother of Assemblyman Anthony Portantino dies in apparent suicide

Assemblyman Anthony Portantino’s brother has died in San Diego after apparently jumping from a seven-story hotel near Balboa Park.

Michael Portantino, 52, was the publisher of San Diego’s Gay and Lesbian Times and a leader in the gay and lesbian community. His body was discovered Wednesday night.

Local media reported that he was devastated after having to close the weekly publication in October due to financial difficulties.

In a statement released by his family, he was remembered as a fierce advocate who worked tirelessly to push those around him to be live up to their fullest potential.

“As a father, brother and son, he valued his family and friends. He made us laugh, he made us think and sometimes he even made us angry as he challenged us all to live our lives to their fullest potential and with absolute commitment to one another for the betterment of our neighborhoods, communities and country,” his family said.

The San Diego Union-Tribune has his obituary. In addition to Anthony Portantino, he is survived by his daughter, Tatiana; mother, Barbara; brother, Phil; and a sister, Mary Ann.