DOWNPATRICK is mourning the passing of well-respected retired local businessman Harry Hinnon.
Along with his wife Maria Luisa, Harry opened and ran The Portofino Cafe on Irish Street in Downpatrick for over 25 years.
Maria Luisa was from Barga in Italy, and she met Harry in Coalisland, County Tyrone, where he is from originally. They named the café The Portofino as this was where Maria Luisa’s family used to go on holiday.
They opened their business in 1966, and it soon became an important part of the fabric of community life. Harry’s wife was the driving force of the business.
During the eulogy at the Requiem Mass, the priest, Fr Eugene O’Neill PP, noted: “They moved to Downpatrick to set up The Portofino shop. Harry knew that in Luisa he had a sharp mind who would run the shop and Harry was very happy to be led along.”
They provided work for many people in the town. The Portofino was a hub and regarded by many as being the best chip shop in the area.
Harry’s daughter, Valeria, explained why lots of local people have a special affection for The Portofino.
“It was where locals met up, found their first job and some found their future husbands or boyfriends,” she said.
“It was a hub for many after socialising in the bars or Dick Looby’s on Thursday, Friday and Saturday night, or for those coming home from the Slieve Donard or the Millbrook night club.
“Many will remember the jukebox which played their favourite songs.
“Some will remember, even earlier in the day, the pinball machine.”
Valeria added: “My mother and father built a successful business with the support of the community of Downpatrick and extended areas.
“What they also did was build trust, friendship, and lasting memories for many, and I’m very grateful.
“My mother and father had a lot of time for the people in Downpatrick.”
The Portofino Café closed in 1992.
Maria Luisa passed away suddenly on the 5th of May 2020.
Harry passed away peacefully on the 4th of May this year, in Strangford Care Home.
