Dean Tornabene

Dean Tornabene, beloved brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, passed away suddenly on Dec. 27, 2025, in Brentwood, CA. Dean was born and raised in Canonsburg, PA., the son of Guy and Mary Tornabene. He began weightlifting in his parents' basement before gyms were in existence. He began competing in local bodybuilding contests and won Mr. Teenage Pittsburgh, but decided early on that California was the goal, and Gold's Gym, Venice was the place. He left home with a couple of hundred dollars, a fake leather jacket, and big dreams. He attended chiropractic school and worked at GNC, but he had bigger ideas. Dean became the first personal trainer at Gold's Gym, and began to attract celebrity clients because he knew HOW to train the body. He continued to compete in bodybuilding contests and placed 2nd in the 1982 NPC Nationals. He eventually turned pro and began writing for Weider Publications. Things evolved, and he started working with an herbalist and developed the first all natural weight loss product: The Metabalance System, which was a huge success. He eventually held 50 patents and trademarks, and was responsible for a number of infomercials and machinery like the Ab Rocker, Ab Swing, Thigh Rocker, and supplements as well. In other words, he achieved the dream.

Dean is survived by his loving family: sisters Roses Del Prince and Gina Seneca, nieces and nephews: Renata Seneca, Geno Seneca, Cami Del Prince (Sophia), Gia Marsala (Jeff), Marco Del Prince and friends on both coasts. It's hard to imagine life without his humor, wit, and

charisma, but I hope he's pumping iron somewhere in the afterlife. A small celebration of life was held in Brentwood,CA.