Gary Sain, one of the top tourism executives in the country, died suddenly on May 4, 2012.

As President and CEO of Visit Orlando, Gary made Orlando one of the top travel destinations in the world. When the economic downturn hit his community, he helped the region come storming back. Under his guidance, Orlando became the first destination in the country to welcome 50 million visitors in a year, making it the top travel spot in the U.S. and one of the most visited places in the world.

Gary lived every day with passion and enthusiasm and credited his active lifestyle with giving him the energy to tackle a busy career.

He believed in helping his 175 staff members pursue active, healthy lifestyles and launched initiatives to encourage healthy habits.

Gary died on May 4, 2012, at the age of 61. Gary was a kind, passionate man who lived every day to the fullest. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. Gary was a good friend to Growing Bolder and an inspirational member of our community.

In December 2011, we talked with Gary about his passion for health, fitness and making a difference.