Often, I write about Ignazio and all his wonderful achievements but, today I have to write about something that is so very sad.
On Monday, we all heard the news about the sudden death of Ignazio’s father, Vito Boschetto. Each of us stopped to think about Ignazio and, how he must be feeling. There are no words that we can express to comfort the family. We can only say they are in our hearts and in our prayers!
I write about Ignazio so often that I feel a special closeness to him and, my heart aches for him. I know how sensitive he is and, I think he must be hurting a lot right now.
Today I want to write, not about Ignazio but, about his family. What I know about them and how they made Ignazio who he is today.
Over the years, as we watched Ignazio grow into a fine, young men, we grew to understand that it was his parents’ guidance that made him who he is. They are a very proud family. Hard working people. This is a trait we see in Ignazio.
They gave Ignazio such exceptional values that it only made sense he would become the good, kind and compassionate person he is.
When Ignazio speaks about his family he speaks with a passion. The deep bond this family has is exceptional. Even as a very young child Ignazio said his family shared everything. No matter what happened it was discussed with the whole family. Ignazio has said that he admires his parents for their openness with him and Nina.
This is what Ignazio had to say about his parents. “Is it the same if the images that I will never forget are …. the memories of my parents? It’s not that I’m crazy or strange, it’s right that my story would never have existed without my parents …. Of sacrifices they have made many and, big for me and for my sister but, more so for me. I do not spend days when I do not think about how proud I am of them.”
Mr. Boschetto was a man who worked very hard for his family. He was a mason, a brick layer. He worked at this job right up to the last days of his life. Ignazio would tell you that his mom and dad had worked at many jobs, and they tried to learn any trade, just to earn some extra money for the family.
In 1990 when work was scarce in Marsala, it became necessary to find work elsewhere. Vito heard about work in Buonconvento, in the province of Siena and he moved his family there. At the time only Nina was born.
In 1992 it became apparent that this was not working. They could not earn enough to sustain the family and so, after hearing from an old friend about work in San Martino in Argine, near Bologna, Vito moved his family there. This was an excellent decision because the family began to prosper with this move. They decided it was time to move into a home of their own and, so, they moved into a house in the hamlet of Guarda di Molinella. This is the house where Ignazio was born.
You will recall that Ignazio’s mother became ill with cancer and many of Ignazio’s young years were spent alone with his sister, Nina. For Ignazio, Nina is a second mother.
After Caterina’s successful treatment, she returned to work and finally everything was normal.
Vito and Caterina knew they would return to Marsala one day and, that is what they worked towards.
In July 2004 the family moved back to Marsala. Caterina’s dream was to open a pizzeria and Vito’s dream was to have Caterina’s dream come true.
Every day for one year, when Vito returned from worked, he built the pizzeria. He built it right in front of their house. Every free moment Ignazio had, he worked alongside his father so that his mother could realize her dream. A year later the pizzeria was completed.
Ignazio’s memories of this time bring him to a very important moment in his life. He always says, “If there had not been the pizzeria, perhaps I would never have started singing seriously. Because, in the meantime, while the pizzeria grew, into me grew more and more the passion for electronics and music. I had started to be part of the elementary school choir and my dad, who was more passionate about electronics than me, had bought me a mixer, a microphone and two speakers, with which we started doing the easiest thing that could be done with that: karaoke.”
Much of this story you already know. After Caterina’s customer heard Ignazio sing, he suggested he meet with a singing teacher and the rest is history. But, before the history there were many obstacles to overcome.
Lessons, many, many lessons. Lessons took money. Lots and lots of money. And so, Vito and Caterina did everything they could to get the money that was needed for the lessons. It took a lot of hard work but, for Vito and Caterina, it was necessary so Ignazio could have his dream.
Finally, the day arrived when the money ran out and Vito and Caterina were heartbroken. They tried everything possible but could not find the means for Ignazio to go on with his lessons. Finally, they found a way. They decided to make a loan. And through the generosity of someone dear to them, the lessons continued. Yes, the sacrifices were great and, many but they were made with love!
After Ti Lascio una Canzone, Il Volo came to be and, a, new, sacrifice had to be made.
Since Ignazio was underage, one of his parents had to travel with him on his world tours. The time was split between Vito and Caterina. This certainly disrupted their family life but, being the people they are, they managed to get through it. At that point the greatest sacrifice to be made was between Ignazio and Nina who would not see each other for very long periods of time. The world tours kept the family apart but, their love kept them together.
When Vito returned from the tour, he would return to his work. He never tried to make his life easy. What he did, he did for his children and would only accept their love in return.
Vito was a simple man! A humble man who taught his children to be kind and humble and to live lives that they could be proud of.
It is not every man that passes through this life that can say he was able to fulfill his son’s dream. A dream that would bring him fame.
Once Ignazio described his family as simple people. Yes, simple and loving and always ready to do whatever was necessary to help each other.
Ignazio, your father is gone but you will keep him alive in your memory. You’ll walk into a room and remember a beautiful moment. You’ll look at a picture and remember that wonderful smile that made a little boys tears go away. You’ll walk down a street and remember the first time you walked together and, he held your hand and made you understand that he would always be there for you. He will always be there for you! You will feel his presence! You will keep his memory alive with your stories of all the wonderful things you shared! But, above all, you will keep him alive because you are him! You are the best part of what he was! His unbounding love! This is the greatest legacy a man can leave for his family!
Ignazio, please accept our deepest condolences! Know that we all are praying for you and your family.
Credit to owners of all photos.
My heart goes out to all of the family. May God wrap His loving arms around them and give them His strength to bear their grief. May God have mercy on Vito’s soul. Heaven just gained another angel.
My heart and prayers go out to you and your family. May God keep you safe 🙏🙏
Thank you very much for this wonderful but sad article.
Thank you so much for writing this piece for the English speakers. A lovely piece about a very sad occasion. Dreadful for that family. Such a shock too for them to deal with.
Thank you for enlightening me or us on the family life of the Boschettos, I enjoyed it very much. My deepest sympathy to the family and continue prayers for Vito may he Rest in Peace. ❤️🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏
What a beautiful tribute to an incredible family. The grief and pain of death is great right now, but you will one day smile again. I have lost both mother and father, and I was inconsolable after my mother died. Ignazio, please accept my sincerest condolences and know that I will pray for you and your family for a very long time. I always pray for Il Volo, and it is no hardship to add your family to my list of prayers. With much love and admiration for you and your family, I am Karen B. a/k/a stitch_in_woodstock on Instagram. 🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍 (White hearts for Eternal Life.)
Thank you for sending this heartfelt letter to Ignazio.
I hope he receives it and shares it with his family to bring them some comfort.
A very moving tribute to Vito and to the Boschetto family. Thank you. Rest in peace Vito. We love you Ignazio and your family.
A very wonderful comment on Ignazio’s family and life! Loved it, thank you very much! So sorry for the passing of Ignazio’s father! It breaks my heart for the whole family! 🎶💔💔🇨🇦
Susan, what a wonderful tribute to Vito Boschetto and his family! My heart aches for them.💔❣️💔
I pray that Caterina, Nina, and Ignazio find peace and comfort in their memories of happier times with Vito, and in knowing that so many people around the world are praying for them and sending caring thoughts during these difficult days.
Sending my hearfelt condolences and virtual hugs to them and to Piero and Gianluca who also lost a respected friend. 🤗❤️🤗❤️🤗❤️
What a beautiful story…..and so beautifully written Susan! Thank you so much for giving us a glimpse of Ignazio’s family…..
my heart aches for this wonderul family
Yes I agree, a beautiful story, beautifully written Susan. Thank you for this wonderful tribute to Vito Boschetto and his family. Ignazio is a special person because of the guidance of his parents, and the sacrifices they made to help him achieve his goal. I am happy that Mr. Boschetto had the chance to see and share in the incredible success of his son, and know that it had all been worthwhile. He must have been so proud of Igna. My heart aches for the whole family as they go through this very difficult time.
A beautiful testimony to an amazing humble man and his family, to hear despite set backs his family was foremost in how he conducted his life. Like most parents of my era you will do anything to make your children’s dreams come true. You sacrifice everything so the next generation has a better life at the same time installing your values in them, love compassion and holding those values true. Just reading your piece Ignazio and his sister have carried that into their adult lives. They are are strong family although this is the hardest of times Ignazio his mother and sister will have so many family and friends hold them in their hearts. My thoughts are with Boschetta family and the extended II Volo family💔
Susan, this tribute to Vito and his family is a work of art. You have captured the beauty of a life well lived…of passing your values and legacy on to your children who will carry it on for generations to come.
Love and prayers for this beautiful family.
A very sincere real life story told with much dignity about the Boschetto family. I too, sensed that the family of Ignazio did much to further his ability to sing. I am so sad and yet honored to have met the three gentlemen who sing heavenly solo or together. I was able to meet them in 2020 and besides mannerly, they are awesome performers. Beside their singing what impressed me most was their courtesy to their fans, and when I met them at Meet and Greet, it was an exciting moment for me as I told each one how well their parents brought them up and how mannerly they were to their fans. Each one agreed with what I said. Gianluca told me his Mom was right around the corner, so of course I stepped away and gave a wave, then Ignazio said my sister is here also next to the dividers, and she was. So family is everything to them and they have traveled many miles together. God is with Ignazio and family and for sure his father is above looking at all of them. My heart also knows the loss of a parent and it isn’t an easy road to travel without them. So to Ignazio’s mom, sister and to Ignazio, my sincerest wishes for each of you and this I know you are loved by many and may God Bless each of you.
So sorry to hear about Papa Vito’s passing. Will be praying for peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Thank you Susan for a glimpse into this Italian family’s life, a family that has seen rough times, persevered, and eventually shared their son’s amazing talent with the world, thus making his dreams come true. We all are better for it, and Vito laid the groundwork-actually and financially. I will pray for the Boschetto family to find strength in each other, from God, and from close friends. Ignazio, your father will ALWAYS be with you in your heart and in your memories. Stay strong for your mother and sister, and when you feel so sad or overwhelmed, it’s okay to just step outside or into an empty room, close the door, take a deep breath, and have a good cry. It’s normal, and necessary in order to ease your pain and grief. My best to you and yours.
Thank you for this very beautiful article! My heart breaks for Ignazio and his family, and I will continue to keep them in my prayers!
This was a very beautiful tribute and I am sure it will bring peace to Ignacio and his family. Prayers and much love to the Boschetto family.
Thank you Susan for the lovely article.
My heart aches for this family that is not as complete as it was just days ago. Catarina has lost her lover and dearest friend, Nina and Ignazio have lost their precious father who loved, supported and taught them to be the people they are today. There is nothing and no one that can be to each of them what Vito was in their lives. May God bless and comfort each one.
Susan, this is so beautifully written and through my tears I want to say to dear Ignazio and his family how terribly sorry I am hearing this devastating news. My heart goes out to each of them, and I pray they can find strength together, to get through this time .. but most of all we will all be right there with them (in spirit) so that they are not alone ❤️❤️
A beautiful tribute to Mr Boschetto and his family. Ignazio is such a special young man, I hope he and his family can gain some strength and comfort from the outpouring of love from his fans and the Il Volo family. We are all keeping you all close in thought and prayer.
Susan, what a beautiful tribute to Ignazio and his family. I have met Ignazio and I’m sure his father was so proud of him, I’m sure it will be a long time before Ignazio can step on the stage and not be heartbroken for his dad. He should know the whole world is feeling his sorrow right now.
A lovely tribute. Fans everywhere are grieving the loss of this man.
I feel so very sad for Ignazio for the loss of this dear beloved Father. Thank you for the triblute.
My father went to Heaven at that same age, but he has always been with me and always will. Your dad is watching over you from Heaven.
Thank you for this thoughtful tribute about Vito translated into English. He was so young. I don’t know about the medical system in Italy, but I hope he had good care. It seemed such a surprise and I can’t begin to imagine the burden of pain that Ignazio has been carrying and how long. I pray for God’s comfort and love for the whole family. They are an inspiration to us all in the way they lived and persevered in their lives. God bless them and keep them wrapped in his arms.
Susan, your article is a very nice tribute to Vito and the family. Although the story has been known, your encouragement of Ignazio to feel his father’s presence is important and will be comforting to the family.
Thank you Susan for enlightening the many fans of Ignazio on the sacrifices his Dad,Vito made to give his family a better life. A beautiful soul taken too soon. My heart aches for Ignazio. My prayers and deepest sympathy go out to Ignazio, his loving sister Nina and his devoted mom, Caterina. RIP Mr. Vito Boschetto!
Well sad lovely tribute to Ignzios Father snd Family. MrBoschetto was a beautiful man Ignacio had a wonderful role model in his dad. GodBless this family to hold them close in this their time if grief. Vito will always watch over his love ones.❤️☦️♥️☦️♥️☦️❤️☦️🌹
Molto bello, Susan!!
Jana
A Beautiful tribute to Don Vito. Ignazio would love what you wrote. Vito lives on forever through his beautiful son, Ignazio. Lo vogliamo bene. ♥️
Thank you Susan for your beautiful tribute to Vito Boschetto taken from his family far too soon. Memories now will be so precious.
Dearest Susan, you’ve shared beautiful words with us~ grazie mille. The shock and sadness remain but you point out the influence and the memories that will live on always. I pray these memories will fill the enormous empty space as soon as possible. In bocca al lupo to dear Ignazio on the Ariston stage.💕
Thank you
This is a beautiful tribute and all I can do is send my love and sentiments. The most wonderful memories of a father who tried so hard to provide and nurture his children with the best he could provide are yours to cherish with warmth and love Ignazio.
Now, Sing of him in your heart.
Thank you for such a beautiful and touching piece. Such a beautiful story I have never read. My heartfelt sympathy goes to Ignazio and his family at this very sad time.
❤️
Grazie, Susan
Such a wonderful tribute to Ignazio’s father!💖 I didn’t know much about Vito, but he had to be pretty special for as special as Ignazio is. I can’t even begin to imagine what Ignazio is going through, but I believe Vito is looking down on him and smiling, and Ignazio, Piero, Gianluca, and Ignazio’s family will slowly getc through it together. Prayers for the Boschetto family and our sweet Ignazio💔💖
What a wonderful account of Ignacio’s family! I send many prayers to this wonderful family. Ignacio’s father will be sorely missed but he has left a shining example of a life well lived! Dena Pitchfork, Mercer Island, Washington U.S.A.
Thank you Pat and Susan for this beautiful and very touching tribute to Ignazio’s beloved father Vito Boschetto! There was much I never knew about him and he truly was a simple, humble man who loved and was devoted to his family. Keeping them in my prayers.
You’re welcome, Margaret. It was an honor to help with this article.
Thank you for this beautiful and insightful account of the Boschetto family. The family must be devastated, after a year of sorrow and pain, and so much sacrifice in Italy. And now, not the virus, but cancer. This is horrible news, a horrible, unfair event. Yes, I agree with the other writers. This man was a great man, rich in heart, who cultivated a loving family. I am so sorry for Ignazio, Caterina, and Nina. Know that many thousands are crying tears for you.
Viviane Le Strat
3 Mars 8h30
Viviane Le Strat
March 3 8am
Thank you Susan, tears came to me when I read you because I really feel the pain that this family is experiencing at the moment Ignazio this wonderful boy has just lost his daddy this wonderful man who made his son grow up! The whole world prays for you today with sincere condolences to the whole family.
Viviane Le Strat
Le 3 Mars 8h30
Viviane Le Strat
March 3 8am
Thank you Susan, tears came to me when I read you because I really feel the pain that this family is experiencing at the moment Ignazio this wonderful boy has just lost his daddy this wonderful man who made his son grow up! The whole world prays for you today with sincere condolences to the whole family.
A beautiful testimony of a loving father, hard worker, humble person. Thanks Susan for this beautiful memory.
May our dear Ignazio find solace in music.
Susan thank you so much for writing this! I am heartbroken and find it hard to accept the death of Vito. Having lost my mother 6 months ago I can somehow relate to the pain Igna, Nina and Caterina are going through. I feel that no words are enough to express how sad this is. I can only give my love, prayers and deepest condolences to the Boschetto family ❤️
What a beautiful piece about a very kind, caring and loving man/family. My heart goes out to Caterina so much, having lost my own husband 11 yrs ago I feel her pain and hope she can take heart in that she and her husband gave their family an excellent set of role models, much love and good values. To Nina and Ignazio all I say is remember the wonderful man he was with love and pride. Walk tall and take care of each other at this very difficult time. Il Volo fans around the world are feeling your pain and sending their love, peace and strength for you all now and in the future. My deepest condolences to al the family xx
Beautifully written. Thank you. Yes, we are hurting for the family. They have lost the physical presence of Vito, but he will be with them in Spirit, Memories. He will be missed and the hurt will bring tears, heart pain. But, they will “carry on” in His Mrmory. That is the kind of family they are. I am hoping Ignazio and the Trio will think of this, and that Vito would want them to sing today. Sing and dedicate it to Him also. He encouraged Ignazio and the Trio and is encouraging them to Sing in Sanremo today. Thank you for this beautifully presented article. Vito a fine example of “Father.”
Thank you so much Susan for this beautiful spoken words. When I read this story about Ignazio’s family tears came into my eyes. A life of sacrifice and heartdages, but above all of LOVE. Ignazio can be so proud of his parents. His dad will live on in the memories of many people. May he R.I.P.
Thank you so much Susan for this beautiful spoken words. When I read this story about Ignazio’s family tears came into my eyes. A life of sacrifice and heartdaches, but above all of LOVE. Ignazio can be so proud of his parents. His dad will live on in the memories of many people. May he R.I.P.
Thank you for that eloquent testimonial to Ignazio’s family. My heartfelt condolences to all of them. Apparently, Vito was an exceptional human being, in that he put his family first above all else & asking nothing in return. Ignazio is blessed to have his mother, sister, Gianluca, Piero & his extended family & friends to be by his side during & after this most difficult time in his life. At least Vito had the chance to experience Igna’s fabulous success!
I shall have a Mass devoted to him in his honor, as I picture him among the angels❤️🇭🇺🇺🇸🙏