LANCASTER – A popular local businessman was found dead at the side of the road Tuesday night, apparently due to a heart attack, authorities said.
Paul Porteus, 52, of Lancaster was discovered around 10:18 p.m., April 15 near a vehicle at the vista point on State Route 14, one mile south of Avenue S, according to Assistant Chief Ed Winter of the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office.
“He was outside of the car, he wasn’t involved in a collision and there was no trauma or foul play,” Winter said. “We don’t know if he was pulled over and then had a heart attack, so that case is under investigation.”
Family members grew worried when Porteus didn’t make it home from the bowling alley Tuesday evening, a friend said. They received the grim news early Wednesday morning, the friend said.
Porteus, the manager and senior loan officer at Prospect Mortgage, was popular throughout the local business community and heavily involved in the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce. The 1980 Palmdale High School graduate could often be seen at the A.M. Café in Lancaster striking conversations with diners.
An autopsy will determine Porteus’ exact cause of death, Winter said.
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eric says
Paul, you were a great man, you always kept a positive attitude regarding business even ones you were not sure about. You always gave the benefit of the doubt. Rest in Peace my brother!
Brad Hudson says
I had the pleasure of working with Paul through the Palmdale Chamber of Commerce for four years. Paul always had a smile on his face and would offer words of encouragement. Such a happy and kind individual. You left us too early Paul, and you will be missed immensely.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Mary Thomas says
Paul was always smiling and was a positive light in this world. He will be missed. My prayers go out to his family during this difficult time.
Dusty says
Thank you for all your delightful smiles here on earth. I know heaven has a new angel. Prayers and condolences to your family
Mayra Alfaro says
Our prayers are with you and family members. We worked in the same business buildings for almost 5 years and he would always be smiling and always very respectful. We will always have him in mind. Our heart goes out to his family..Bless His Heart
valleygirl says
Will miss you Paul, such a pro-active, positively focused human being who gave most of his time to good and great causes. My prayers go up for you and your family.
Nancy Rodriguez says
We will all miss you. Thank you for being a great friend. My prayers are with you an your family. Rest in peace
nikki says
I am so sad that you left us so soon. You were a great man. My heart goes out to your family.
CC says
We love you Paul, thank you for everything you did to make this town a better place, you will be missed