Ron DiMenna, the founder of Ron Jon Surf Shop, has died at 84. His death marks the end of an era for the Space Coast, where his surf shop has been a fixture since 1963. DiMenna opened the shop in Cocoa Beach, a location that became synonymous with surfing and coastal life in Brevard County. Over six decades, Ron Jon Surf Shop became more than a retail store—it was a gathering place for surfers, tourists, and locals alike.
DiMenna's influence extended beyond selling surfboards and beachwear. He helped establish Cocoa Beach as a premier surfing destination, working with local officials to preserve coastal areas and promote water safety. His efforts included organizing beach cleanups and mentoring young surfers through the Ron Jon Surf Shop Foundation, which has supported hundreds of students in the region. The shop's iconic pink color and neon sign became a local landmark, drawing visitors from across the country.
Friends and colleagues remember DiMenna as a passionate advocate for the ocean and his community. He often spoke about the importance of protecting Brevard's coastline, a sentiment that shaped his business practices. The shop's commitment to sustainability, including recycling programs and partnerships with environmental groups, reflected his values. DiMenna's family confirmed he had no immediate plans to retire, a decision that kept him actively involved in the shop until his final months.
The surf shop will remain open, with his son, Ron DiMenna Jr., overseeing operations. Locals and visitors will continue to visit the shop, now a historic site in Brevard County. DiMenna's legacy is etched into the Space Coast's identity, a place where surfing and community have long intertwined. His impact, however, will be felt for years to come.