Louis “Lou” Rovegno of Daytona Beach, FL, left this world on March 25, 2026 at the age of 82. Born in Huntington, N.Y., he grew up in East Northport. Throughout his early years, he worked at his family’s business, Starlite Bus Company. In 1963, at the age of 19, Lou was the passenger in a tragic car accident that left him a quadriplegic and changed the trajectory of his life forever. After an extensive hospital stay and rehabilitation, Lou returned to the family business, where he worked diligently to plan the bus routes. In 1977, he married the love of his life, Marge. They relocated to Holly Hill, FL, in 1979, where Lou could fulfill his dream of owning a hobby shop. Marge and Lou purchased Space Hobbies, Inc., in South Daytona, renaming it “Ace Hobbies” after taking ownership. Ace Hobbies became the most well-stocked hobby shop in the Central FL area (and beyond). It became the go-to place for Embry-Riddle students, radio control model enthusiasts, and members of various crafting clubs to gather, exchange ideas, and purchase top-of-the-line products. In 1997, Lou retired and spent his time doing what he loved—building and flying R/C planes and travelling the country with Marge in their RV. Both Marge and Lou were active in their church, the Daytona Beach Radio Control Association(DBRCA), and the Suwanee Valley Vagabonds RV Club. They both leave behind many friends who cherish their memories.

Despite being confined to a wheelchair, Lou never let it hold him back from doing things he loved, nor did he ever feel sorry for himself. He overcame so many obstacles with grit, perseverance, and a positive attitude. He even mentored other people who had recently been in accidents that left them paralyzed. He was able to give them hope. At the time of his accident, he was told that he would not live past 40 years old due to health complications that quads encounter. He surpassed that prediction by 42 years.

Lou was truly one of a kind. He was selfless, generous, had a fantastic sense of humor, and was a man of integrity. He loved his family dearly and would do anything for them. In fact, he took an online course to become ordained so he could perform his step-daughter’s wedding in 2020. He was a master negotiator(especially when it came to used cars); he loved terrible “B” movies, and he learned to play a fierce Harmonica. His ability to tell a story, or to keep telemarketers on the phone for as long as possible, is unmatched. Before his accident in 1963, he was an amazing dancer—people would clear the dance floor just to watch his moves.

Preceded in death by his brother Ronald Rovegno, parents Louis and Ida Rovegno, wife Margaret “Marge” Rovegno, step-daughter Doris “Dusty” Smith, and step-son Paul Gutter. Lou leaves behind his son Thomas Rovegno, step-daughter Colleen Grinnell, 6 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a date and time TBD. To honor Lou’s memory, please send donations to the Dana and Christopher Reeve Foundation. https://www.christopherreeve.org