Dominic Menaldi 1964-2023

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, Dominic was popular amongst his peers, 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 University football, 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 got Dominic his reputation as the “World’s Greatest Bodyguard.”

Prior to moving to California, in 1988, Dominic fought a bear named Samson (750 lbs.) in Abilene, Texas. This event was unplanned and amazed all those who witnessed Dom laying the 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.”

His landmark Castle House in Huntington Beach, which he built, earned him another title, “Castleman.” He was famously known for his haunted house, enormous generosity and making sure everyone was fed. 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 life and goodwill, Dominic was extremely patriotic and his entire purpose was to make people feel safe and happy. A true entertainer at heart, he liked bringing friends together with parties and gathering by the bonfire afterwards to talk. He enjoyed festivities and his favorite pastime was riding his electric bike.

Dom truly loved his family and was the best brother any sibling could ever ask for. He will be greatly missed.

He had a heart of gold and left a lot of hearts broken. His genuine love and mentoring for others, raw nature and unmatched animated personality will forever live in all the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

The funeral was already held in California, but the family plans to have a celebration of life gathering for Dominic’s family and friends in Ohio as well.

The Dominic Menaldi memorial celebration of life will be held noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, 5600 Market St., Youngstown, OH 44512, second floor (elevator available).

Everyone, please spread the word. Dom would welcome all! Afterwards, you are invited to continue the celebration at WaterFire in Sharon, Pa.

(special notice)