A 97-year-old California man pulled off a “dramatic exit,” passing away at his own birthday party just moments after tearing up the dance floor to the Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive.” Eden Malinoff, a Los Angeles-based pastry chef, shared on social media the remarkable story of Vito, her neighbor, who went out dancing, partying and having fun after throwing a Halloween-themed 97th birthday party last week.
In the now-viral clip, Vito can be seen clapping, dancing and smiling while dressed in a black button-down shirt and dress pants while the popular ’70s disco classic played in the background.
Malinoff, 24, said she baked a chocolate and red wine cake for Vito, who was still full of energy and life, despite his advanced age. She said even she couldn’t keep up with him when it came to celebrating life.
“Last week was Vito’s 97th birthday, and in true Vito fashion, he wanted to celebrate by throwing a Halloween birthday party,” said Malinoff, who runs a cake and cookie business.
“So of course I made him a cake. When I asked him the secret to living this long, he said it was to never drink cheap alcohol,” she continued, explaining that she made him a chocolate and red wine cake in his honor.
However, Vito died suddenly at the party, shortly after guests sang “Happy Birthday” to him. Malinoff said Vito was not drunk and it was just a freak occurrence.
“Unfortunately, the night didn’t end as planned and Vito made a dramatic exit. But if he could have chosen to exit, it would have been like this,” Malinoff said. “He was surrounded by people he loved, we were celebrating his long and full life, and I am so grateful to have been able to be a part of it.”
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“This is how I hope to leave”
When the video went viral, social media users were stunned but felt it was perhaps the best way to go home, surrounded by loved ones and celebrating.
“I feel like people don’t realize that this man was 96 years old. It’s not shocking that a 96-year-old man dies. The fact that he was able to spend his last moment with friends is wonderful. That this happened quickly is a blessing,” one user said, while another added: “This is how I hope to leave this life. Party and enjoy. »
A third commented: “For a 96 year old, this has to be one of the best ways to go out. A celebration of his life, surrounded by the people he loves. Death doesn’t have to be sad and scary for everyone.”
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