Luigi Matera

Our Papa was born on October 28, 1935, and lived a life defined by courage, resilience, and a deep, unwavering love for his family.

In 1943, during the bombing of his hometown of Catanzaro, Italy, our father was just seven years old. He and his family, along with several others, survived by living for months inside a train tunnel. At night, in total darkness, young Gino and a friend would quietly make their way through a city reduced to rubble to meet a relative who provided bread for those in hiding. Even as a child, he carried a bravery that would define his life.

When the war ended, he found moments of joy again—exploring the ruins with friends while the adults began the long work of rebuilding.

As a young man, he played soccer for Catanzaro in Series B, traveling to matches on his motorcycle. He loved that time—young, fearless, and free, seeing the beauty of Italy along the way. At the same time, he was learning the trade that would shape his future: baking. Guided by a bakery owner who continued to teach him even while ill, Papa rose quickly to become a head baker, earning the respect of men far older than himself.

His soccer days came to an abrupt end in the late 1950s when he was struck by a car while riding his motorcycle. Thrown over a stone wall and onto train tracks, he survived by what he always believed was God’s grace—the train had passed only minutes before. He spent nearly a year in the hospital, much of it in traction, fighting his way back.

And then came one of the greatest moments of his life.

After recovering, he was riding through the countryside when he saw our Mama for the first time. Within a week, he had found out who she was and went to her father to ask permission to court her. Thankfully, our grandfather said yes—and Mama did too.

A year and a half later, they were married, beginning a partnership that would last nearly 60 years—built on love, faith, and commitment.

In the late 1960s, they made the difficult decision to leave everything behind—their home, their families, their way of life—and come to the United States in search of a better future for their children.

They arrived with little, facing a new language and a new world. But through determination and faith, they built a life from the ground up. Mama cared for the home and family, while Papa worked three jobs to provide. Within two years, they achieved what once must have seemed impossible—they bought their home.

Through God’s grace, they didn’t just survive—they built something lasting. Because of their sacrifices, we are blessed with families of our own today.

They were married just one month shy of their 60th anniversary. And to them, their children—two sons and one daughter—were everything.

As his children, we take comfort in this: love outlives loss. All things may pass, but love remains.

Arrivederci for now, Papa. Give Mama a hug for us.

We love you both—and we always will.