Major surf shop founder dies at 88

Ron DiMenna opened “The Original” Ron Jon Surf Shop in Long Beach Island, New Jersey, in 1961, and helped to grow the surf brand along the East Coast.

Ron Jun Surf Shop Founder Ron DiMenna died peacefully on Sept. 6 at age 88.

“Our thoughts are with his wife, Lynne, during this difficult time,” the company said in a statement. “We honor all the creativity he brought into this world, and we will continue to honor his love for the beach and all things surf.”

DiMenna founded Ron Jon Surf Shop in 1959 along the New Jersey shores, and “The Original” Ron Jon Surf Shop opened in Long Beach Island, New Jersey, in 1961. He soon after opened the “One-of-a-Kind” Ron Jon Surf Shop in Cocoa Beach, Florida.

Over the years, DiMenna’s business gained popularity with surfers and beachgoers alike. The company’s website states that he and the Ron Jon Surf Shop team opened stores all along the East Coast, from Long Beach Island to Cocoa Beach, Key West and beyond. The store has become a go-to travel destination, known for colorful, fun and family-friendly stores.

Space Coast Daily, a publication in Brevard County, Florida, reports that DiMenna had discovered surfing in 1959 along the Jersey shores. After trying to find a custom surf board from California, DiMenna’s father suggested that he buy three, then sell two at a profit so his would be free. From there, the Ron Jon Surf Shop business began.

In addition to Ron Jon Surf Shop, DiMenna found ways to give back to others. He and his wife, Lynne, founded the Surfing’s Evolution & Preservation Foundation as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. The nonprofit is focused on protecting beaches, promoting beach safety, and providing education and history on board sports.

DiMenna’s death comes just after the company had relocated its flagship store on Long Beach Island. The relocated flagship store spans 12,000 square feet and features a mix of surf, skate, swim and beach essentials on two floors.

DiMenna is survived by his wife, Lynne, and many colleagues, collaborators and customers who were touched by his vision.