Contents
Introduction
Dennis Tinerino was a four-time Mr. Universe, Mr. America, and Hall of Fame bodybuilder who went on to become a Christian evangelist with a worldwide ministry. He was one of the most successful and influential bodybuilders of his era, competing against legends like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Lou Ferrigno, and Frank Zane. He was also a loving husband, father, and friend to many. Sadly, he passed away on May 7, 2010, at the age of 64, after an 18-month battle with stomach cancer. In this article, we will explore the life and legacy of Dennis Tinerino, as well as the cause of his death and how he faced it with courage and faith.
Early Life and Bodybuilding Career
Dennis Tinerino was born on December 23, 1945, in Brooklyn, New York, to an Italian-American family. His father was a boxer who introduced him to weight training at the age of 12. Dennis was determined to become a champion bodybuilder and actor, inspired by his idols Steve Reeves and Reg Park. He won his first title as Mr. Brooklyn in 1964, and followed that up with 11 more titles, including Mr. New York City and Mr. America in 1967. He also finished second to Arnold Schwarzenegger at the Mr. Universe contest in 1967, at the age of 21.
He won his first Mr. Universe title in England in 1968, and later in 1975, 1980, and 1981. He also won the Mr. World contest in 1971, and the Pro Mr. Natural America in 1978. He competed in the Mr. Olympia contests from 1977 to 1982, placing as high as second in the heavyweight division in 1979. He was known for his wide shoulders, symmetrical physique, and charismatic personality. He appeared on the cover of dozens of bodybuilding and fitness magazines, and authored his own training manuals. He also had a brief acting career, playing Atlas in Schwarzenegger’s debut film, Hercules in New York, in 1970.
He was inducted into several Halls of Fame, including the AAU Hall of Fame, the Italian American Sports Hall of Fame, the Oldetime Barbell & Strongmen Hall of Fame, the National Fitness Hall of Fame, and the IFBB Bodybuilding Hall of Fame. According to Joe Weider, the founder of the IFBB, “Dennis was one of the best bodybuilders of his era. His blend of size and shape was a classic combination that took him to Mr. America, Mr. World, and Mr. Universe.”
Personal Life and Ministry
In 1970, Dennis met and married Anita Conti, the love of his life. They moved from New York to California in 1974, and had three children, Tara, Marissa, and Dennis-John. Dennis was a devoted family man, who always put his wife and kids first. He was also a generous and compassionate person, who helped many people in need. He was involved in various charitable causes, such as feeding the homeless, supporting orphanages, and sponsoring children in Africa.
Dennis also had a strong faith in God, which he credited for his success and happiness. He became a born-again Christian in 1978, after a near-fatal car accident that left him with a broken neck. He miraculously recovered from his injury, and dedicated his life to spreading the gospel. He became an ordained minister, and traveled around the world to preach and share his testimony. He also used his bodybuilding fame and expertise to reach out to young people, and inspire them to live healthy and godly lives. He founded the Dennis Tinerino Ministries, and wrote several books on faith and fitness, such as The Servinator, The Power of a Dream, and The Champion’s Way.
Cause of Death and Legacy
In late 2008, Dennis was diagnosed with stomach cancer, a rare and aggressive form of the disease. He underwent several surgeries and treatments, but the cancer spread to his liver and lungs. He faced his illness with courage and optimism, trusting in God’s plan and purpose for his life. He continued to minister and encourage others, even from his hospital bed. He also received an outpouring of love and support from his family, friends, and fans, who prayed for his healing and recovery.
However, on May 7, 2010, Dennis passed away peacefully at the Northridge Community Hospital in Northridge, California. He was surrounded by his wife and children, who held his hand and sang his favorite hymns. He was 64 years old. His funeral was attended by hundreds of people, who celebrated his life and legacy. He was buried at the Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Hollywood Hills, California.
Dennis Tinerino left behind a remarkable legacy of excellence, generosity, and faith. He was a bodybuilding legend, a Christian evangelist, and a loving husband and father. He touched and inspired millions of people with his physique, personality, and testimony. He was a true champion, both in and out of the gym. He will always be remembered and missed by those who knew and loved him.
