Dominic Cutugno

Dominic Cutugno, age 73 of Mishawaka, passed away Thursday, February 1, 2024.  Dominic was born August 6, 1950, in Bovalino Marina, Reggio Calabria, Italy to the late Francesco and Maria (Spano) Cutugno.  Dominic immigrated to the United States at the age of 18 and earned his US Citizenship shortly thereafter. Dominic's journey as a hairstylist began as he apprenticed in Italy at the age of 12 and was nothing short of exceptional, as he garnered numerous awards and accolades for his talent. His creative touch and passion for the craft led him to work with prestigious salons such as Armando's and Rocco's, where he catered to a high-end clientele, where he made each of his clients feel like they were his only one.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children Francesco Cutugno and Christina Cutugno, both of Mishawaka, the mother of his children Cheryl (Richard) Lambdin-Shutes and his siblings Carmela (Francesco) Catanzariti of Mishawaka, Rosella Cutugno of Italy, and Bruno (Francesca) Cutugno of Mishawaka along with his nieces and nephews, Maria (Jeff) Cherif, Rocco (Naziha) Catanzariti, Francesco Catanzariti, Giuseppe Catanzariti, Saverio Falcomata, Elenora (Mario) Falcomata-Tortorella, Chiara Falcomata and Marisa Cutugno.  Surviving as well are 8 great-nieces and nephews.  His brother-in-law, Bruno Falcomata preceded him in death.

Visitation will be held from 5-8pm Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home (Formerly Goethals and Wells) with a Rosary to be held beginning at 5pm.  A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11am Thursday, February 8, 2024, at St. Therese Little Flower Church, South Bend. Dominic will be laid to rest privately at a later time. ** Dominic's funeral service may be viewed in real time beginning 10 minutes prior to Mass on Thursday in the window below.**

Dominic was an amazing cook and loved and entertained his friends and family with his homemade dishes. He took great joy in sharing those moments with loved ones, creating lifelong memories around the dining table.

He was an avid fan of Notre Dame Football, enjoyed playing Briscola with friends. Dominic's Italian heritage was a source of immense pride for him, and he passed on that legacy to Franc and Christina. His frequent travels to Italy served not only as a means of reconnecting with his roots but also as an opportunity to share stories of his upbringing with his children.

A devoted member of St. Therese Little Flower Church in South Bend, Dominic's faith was a cornerstone of his life. He found peace in his spiritual journey, and his commitment to his faith was evident in his regular attendance and active participation in the church community.

Above all, Dominic will be remembered as a loving father, a passionate hairstylist, and a man with an infectious laughter that brightened the lives of those around him. His legacy lives on in the memories of those who were fortunate enough to know him, and his impact on the lives he touched will live on through the laughter, love, and inspiration he shared with the world.