Louis Escobar, Known As 'Mr. Portsmouth,' Dies At 84

PORTSMOUTH, RI — Louis Escobar, the man known as "Mr. Portsmouth," and the long-time owner of Escobar Farm, has died.

Escobar, 84, died at home Friday, according to his obituary. He was born in Middletown in 1938 and took over his family farm in 1972. The farm is known for its annual fireworks and corn maze.

In 2015, a serious fall from a tractor left Escobar as a functioning quadriplegic, but he still was always around the farm, educating the workers and the community at large.

"Affectionately referred to as Mr. Portsmouth, he was known for hosting Portsmouth's 4th of July fireworks over the cow pastures, bringing calves to local events, doing tractor rides at Touch-a-Truck, just to name a few," Escobar's family wrote in his obituary. "He was proud to be a mentor to all the young people who have come to work on the farm over the last 65 years, right up to the young ladies presently helping with milking and chores."

Escobar is survived by his wife, Jane and three children: Lori Clarke, Michael Escobar and Lisa Hertzog.

Escobar's wake will be held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday, at Connors Funeral Home at 55 West Main Road in Portsmouth. His funeral is scheduled for 10 a.m., Saturday, at St. Columba Catholic Cemetery in Middletown.