Last Updated on November 7, 2026 by Ayoko Francisca Ahite

A California man named Vito died during his 97th birthday celebration after spending the evening dancing and enjoying time with friends, according to his neighbor, Los Angeles baker Eden Malinoff.

Malinoff, who runs Baked SoCal, shared the story in a November 2 TikTok video that combined footage from the Halloween-themed party with the making of his birthday cake. Vito could be seen smiling, clapping, and dancing to the Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive.”

For the occasion, Malinoff made him a red wine chocolate cake inspired by a conversation they had earlier that week. When she asked about his secret to a long life, he told her to avoid cheap liquor.

Despite the decades between their ages, Malinoff described Vito as an energetic member of a friend group largely made up of people in their 20s and 30s. At 24, she said, she sometimes struggled to keep up with him.

The celebration took an unexpected turn when Vito died during the gathering. Malinoff remembered his final evening as being surrounded by people who loved him, celebrating the life he had lived.

In a follow-up video, she confirmed that his death had happened at the party and said it was unexpected. She explained that sharing the footage was intended to honor someone who had inspired her and others in the Venice community.

A friend also said Vito had medical issues whose severity those around him had not fully understood, adding that he died peacefully with his favorite music playing. A specific cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.

Malinoff’s tribute has since drawn millions of views, introducing viewers to Vito through footage of the joyful final celebration.