Published by Legacy Remembers from Sep. 8 to Sep. 13, 2023.
Dominic Menaldi, 59, died unexpectedly at his home in
Huntington Beach, CA on August 11, 2023. He was the son of the late Edward and Margaret Nakley Menaldi. Dominic leaves behind his brothers and sisters, Edward Menaldi, Elizabeth Moore, Arthur Menaldi, Thomas Menaldi, Diana Lynn Menaldi, and Marguarite Menaldi. He was predeceased by his parents and brother Joseph Menaldi.
Born and raised in
Youngstown, Ohio, Dominic was popular amongst his peers and known for his superhuman strength and was nicknamed "Dangerous Dom". He had an incredible ability to bring people together with his parties at a very early age. Dominic was an exceptional athlete and he excelled in the sports of football and wrestling. He especially loved Ohio State college football and remained a loyal fan of the Cleveland Browns and was a die-hard Cleveland Indians fan, now known as the Cleveland Guardians.
Dominic left Ohio at 17 and moved to Texas and opened his own pizza shop. Although it was the best pizza in town, Dominic had a calling to serve and he moved to Orange County, California in 1990 to take over MP Security Operations. It was his passion for protecting others and his incredible knack to move crowds that Dominic got his reputation as the "World's Greatest Bodyguard".
Prior to moving to CA, in 1988, Dominic fought a bear named Samson, 750 lbs., in
Abilene, TX. This event was unplanned but amazed all those who witnessed Dom laying this bear flat on its back. This led to a planned event "Man VS. Bear" in 1992 where Dom later challenged the famous bear Dakota, 801 lbs, at the Hollywood Casino. After this event, Dom became known as the "Bear Wrestler".
Dominic was loved by all who knew him, his landmark Castle House in Huntington Beach that he built that earned him another title "Castleman" and was famously known for its haunted house and Dom's enormous generosity. He always made sure everyone was fed and became a mentor to all who knew him. In his honor and with the love of the Huntington Beach community and volunteers, we will continue Dom's traditions and wishes for us all to Carry On.
Full of passion and goodwill, Dominic's entire purpose was to protect those around him making people feel safe and happy. Dom loved his family and was the best brother any sibling could ask for. He enjoyed bringing friends together with his parties and gathering by the bond fire afterwards to talk. His favorite pastime was riding his electric bike. Dom will be greatly missed. He had a heart of gold and left a lot of hearts broken but his love and unmatched animated personality and raw nature will forever live in all the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
The funeral was already held in CA but the family would like to have a Celebration of Life Gathering for Dominic's family and friends in Ohio as well.
Dominic Menaldi Memorial 07/02/1964 - 08/11/2023 Celebration of Life will be held Sept. 16, 2023; 12 PM -5 PM 5600 Market St., Youngstown, OH 44512 2nd Floor (Elevator Available).
Everyone, please spread the word. Dom would welcome all! Afterwards, you are invited to continue the celebration at the Waterfire in Sharon, PA.