SLO Tango -- Dwain’s Celebration of Life this Saturday

[Rich Howe]

On Oct 29, 2004, Dwain was inspired by Mariana Melling & Orlando Paiva Jr. at Jaffa Cafe (now Petra) to commit himself to learning Tango in the next 10 years. He succeeded beautifully: dancing for 20 years and touching the hearts of many in our community.


From the Tribune, March 3, 2025:

Dwain Edward Zsadanyi July 20, 1949 - January 5, 2025 Arroyo Grande, California - Dwain Edward Zsadanyi, 75, passed away at home on January 5, 2025, after a valiant fight against lung cancer. He is survived by daughter Amy, son Timothy, grandchildren Vanessa, Savahna, Cheryl, and Brad, four great grandchildren, sister Janis, and the mother of his children, Carolyn. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Paula, his sister, Leigh, sons Eric and Alexander, grandson Ryan and granddaughter, Amelia. Born in New York, Dwain joined the Army at 19, and after an honorable discharge, attended Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, earning his Bachelor's degree in Chemistry. After several years of teaching, Dwain left academics to pursue a career as an Environmental Chemist, last working for OEC in Santa Maria, CA. Dwain was an accomplished artist, spending many hours painting local scenes and portraits, many of which have been sold. He was also an active tango dancer, often seen dancing on tango night at the Madonna Inn. He was part of the local theater community, having participated in productions at Pewter Playhouse, Pismo Light Opera Theater, and San Luis Obispo Little Theater in many roles, from actor to director. He produced and directed several of Gary Cardin's original productions at the Excellent Center in Grover Beach, and showcased one of them in San Francisco. In addition, Dwain sponsored the New Play Festival at Arroyo Grande High School for many years, encouraging young people to write and present one-act plays. Dwain made it his mission to help others, supporting many organizations and helping those in need. He was a kind, compassionate, thoughtful human being who lived every day to its fullest. 

A Celebration of his life and viewing of his artwork will be held on May 31, 2025, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Ramona Garden Park Center, Grover Beach, California. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in his name to the San Luis Obispo would be appreciated.