Updated: Mon Oct. 16 2006 9:42:44 AM

CTV.ca News Staff

Well-known Toronto entertainment promoter and iconic member of the international artistic community Gino Empry has died. He was 83.

Empry became involved in the entertainment industry at the age of 14 by starting a drama group for the Catholic Youth Organization at St. Mary of the Angels Church.

He parlayed that experience to establish himself as an actor, director and producer in small theatres, according to Empry's own website.

In 1964, Empry founded his own agency for booking performers and public relations.

Six years later he was the entertainment director and consultant for the Royal York Hotel's Imperial Room.

Empry was best known for his work as a promoter, representing and booking performances for some of the best-known names of the 20th century, including Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, Peggy Lee, Bob Hope and Ella Fitzgerald.

But he is described as "a champion of Toronto talent" by Gordon Pinsent in a Toronto Star report.

"He was a man who wanted the very best for us," Pinsent told the newspaper.

"He was there as the constant angel on your shoulder, reminding you not to give up, and that you are important."

Empry's website said he lived in a downtown Toronto condo where he enjoyed "inviting celebrities and VIPs to small dinner parties or hosting 'A' list shoulder-to-shoulder chic bashes" for a variety of stars.

His online profile said Toronto-born Empry enjoyed gardening, attending the theatre and watching movies. He also liked travelling and collecting rare jewelry and artifacts.

With files from The Canadian Press