Unfortunately, there are also very sad moments in life that must be faced.
On September 22nd, Grandpa Ernesto Ginoble passed away. 🙏
The news was shared by Mr. Ercole Ginoble on his Facebook profile.
Hi Dad❤️ You were a wonderful father and an adorable grandfather; we are so proud of you. A kind and generous man, loved by everyone—you leave behind such beautiful memories.
Forever with us, Dad❤️
Gianluca wrote this on his Instagram profile:
Now begins the hardest and most inevitable part: living a life without you. Moving forward without your gaze upon me.
That reassuring gaze that gave me the strength to face life.
Now, I carry that gaze within me.
I will look at myself with the same eyes you used to look at me with. Because I am like you.
And as long as I have breath in my lungs to sing, Grandpa, that voice will be yours, too.
You will live on in me forever. I love you, Grandpa. Fly high.
CLICK HERE to view the Facebook reel
Radio Roseto reported the following:
Roseto, Ernesto Ginoble has died: farewell to the beloved grandfather of Gianluca from Il Volo
Roseto degli Abruzzi (TE) – Ernesto Ginoble has passed away at the age of 92; he was the grandfather of Gianluca Ginoble, the singer from Roseto who is a member of the trio Il Volo. He was a figure deeply connected to the artist’s family and personal history, having instilled in his grandson a significant part of the passion for music that would lead him, while still very young, to perform on stages across the globe.
A message from his son Ercole
The news of his passing was shared by his son Ercole Ginoble, Gianluca’s father, who took to social media to bid his father farewell with a message filled with affection: “Goodbye, Dad. You were a wonderful father and an adorable grandfather; we are proud of you. You were a kind and generous man, loved by everyone, and you leave behind beautiful memories. Forever with us.”
The connection to music and the Montepagano band.
Ernesto Ginoble was a significant figure in Gianluca’s life. The singer himself has often spoken of the bond between them, never hiding the vital role his grandfather played in his personal growth and musical development. Ernesto was a longtime member of the Montepagano band, playing the alto flugelhorn, and it was through him that Gianluca first discovered music.
In an interview published by *La Cucina Italiana*, Gianluca recounted how his grandfather used to accompany him on the band’s trips to perform at patron saint festivals and local events in the area. Speaking about his grandson, Ernesto himself recalled with emotion the years when, as a young man, he used to watch Domenico Modugno at Sanremo, eventually remarking: “I can’t believe it: back in the sixties, I was watching Modugno at Sanremo, and now you’re as famous as he is.”
“Don’t neglect your grandparents”
Gianluca had spoken about the special bond with his grandfather on other occasions as well. In 2023, in an interview with VDossier, he recounted returning to Montepagano specifically to spend time with him: “I’m in Montepagano, at Grandpa Ernesto’s house. I spent the day with him today. I’m happy because I finally have some time to devote to my loved ones and my friends.” On that same occasion, he reminded young people of the importance of grandparents with a phrase that became particularly meaningful: “Don’t neglect your grandparents; they are life’s greatest treasure.”
Days spent together in Montepagano.
Their bond remained incredibly strong, even during the years of international success. Gianluca had spoken about growing up in Montepagano and spending his days with his grandfather: “Every morning, I would have coffee with my grandfather and his friends while they played cards.” It is a memory rooted in the sense of normalcy the artist always strove to maintain, despite his global fame.
And it was Ernesto whom Gianluca himself identified as a pivotal figure in his development. In an interview with *Il Messaggero*, while discussing the people who had played a role in his growth, he unhesitatingly pointed to his paternal grandfather: “My paternal grandfather, Ernesto. He was the artistic soul of the family; he played in the village band.”
A bond highlighted even during his rise to stardom.
Over the years, there were several public moments that showcased this bond. In 2020, Gianluca visited the Museum of the People of Abruzzo with his father, Ercole, and his grandfather, Ernesto, explaining: “My grandfather played the horn in the Montepagano band.” On that occasion, he added: “For now, I’m just enjoying my grandfather’s company.”
His grandfather had stood by Gianluca’s side even during the years of his artistic breakthrough. Il Volo won the Sanremo Festival in 2015 with “Grande amore”—a success that propelled the young singer from Roseto, then twenty years old, onto the international stage. In the days following the victory, Gianluca returned to Roseto and spoke publicly of his desire to take his grandfather to Moscow, a testament to how central Ernesto remained to his thoughts and plans.
Family and Funeral Arrangements
Ernesto Ginoble is survived by his children Ercole and Elisa, his daughter-in-law Eleonora, his adored grandchildren—Cristiana (with Francesco), Gianluca, Nicolò, and Ernesto—his great-granddaughters Ambra and Viola, his brothers- and sisters-in-law, and all his relatives.
The lying-in-state and final farewell will be hosted by the community of Montepagano. The funeral service will take place on Thursday, September 24, at 10:00 AM, at the Parish Church of Montepagano.
The news has prompted numerous messages of condolence and support for the Ginoble family. In Roseto, Ernesto was not merely the grandfather of one of Abruzzo’s most internationally renowned voices; he was a man deeply connected to Montepagano, to music, and to his family—a presence that accompanied Gianluca’s growth for years and will remain in the memories of all who knew him.
The entire staff of Radio Roseto stands with Gianluca, his father Ercole, and the entire Ginoble family during this time of sorrow, offering their deepest condolences on the loss of the beloved Ernesto.
We at Flight Crew also join Gianluca and the entire Ginoble family in their deep sorrow and offer our heartfelt condolences.
R.I.P., dear Grandpa Ernesto! 🙏♥️
Credit to owners of all photos and video.
My deepest sympathy Gianluca to you and your family. Your Grandfather adored you, and you adored him, you have wonderful memories.🙏🙏💗
I send my heartfelt condolences to Gian and his family. Losing a loved one cannot be defined by words. This part of life is difficult. You are blessed with loving memories that never leave you. Nonno Ernesto is still with you and guides you from above. If you listen closely you can still hear him loving you. I pray for your peace and to be covered in good memories of all your times together.
Thank you Pat for this beautiful presentation on the passing of a beautiful soul who loved & inspired his grandson Gianluca – always there in a supportive role – grandfather Ernesto to me is the epitome of what great grandfathers are all about – we know Gianluca has been raised with good manners & good grace which stems from an extraordinary family upbringing – to grandfather Ernesto – you have now taken your journey to the Eternities – rest easy – you have much to be proud of – to Gianluca – do not weep – your grandfather is in a far better place & his spirit will always be with you – my profound love is with you.
You’re welcome, Jude.😊 Daniela did a great job with this wonderful post to honor Nonno Ernesto. I was only 4 when both of my grandfathers passed away within 6 months of each other. I never really knew either of them but I have photos of them holding me as a baby. My maternal grandmother died when my Mom was only 3 years old so she doesn’t even remember her. I only knew my paternal grandmother. But we didn’t see her very often. Oh how I wish I could have had grandparents around when I was growing up so I could ask questions about their lives and hear their stories. 💗
Pat please apologise to Daniela for me – I saw your name at the top of the message & thought it was only you that notified us – I am so sad to hear you really didn’t have the opportunity to know your grandparents – but you have done well & are a lovely spirit – your parents obviously did a good job with your upbringing – when I look at Gianluca – I can see a beautiful refined soul – he is very much a humanitarian & I feel his parents & his grandfather did an outstanding job of forging higher ground for Gianluca to walk on – it is so hard to express the hurt & pain we feel for Gianluca – but he has a wonderful loving personality – so he will be fine – he also has Piero & Ignazio for support – two very fine young men – we could not wish for better role models for our young people – love you Pat – take care.
Jude, you are such a sweet person! 😘 I would just like for Daniela to get most of the credit for these posts. She does the hard part of searching for the photos and videos and then writing the story. All I do is make the post look good! 😉
Sending love back to you! 💕
Thank you for your post.
This was so sad. I felt the pain from the family.
I cried at the words which Ercole and Gianluca expressed.
It doesn’t take much for me.
I like most people have lost grandparents and if especially you were very close and they had a big impression on your life it’s very hard.
The grief for Gianluca as a grandson is so strong and it takes time to come to terms with it. It gets easier but you never forget. I think of mine everyday, especially my Grandmother.
My thoughts and prayers are with Gianluca and his family. I thought he was very brave and amazing to carry on for the concert last night in Mantova.
I’m sure his Nonno would have wanted that.
God bless them.🙏♥️
Much love
Fenella 😘😔
OH!! I am so sorry!! My sincere condolences to the whole family and a special hug to Gianluca, who must be so sad!!
Bei dem gestrigen Konzert in Mantua gab es nach dem Lied Halleluja minutenlang Standing Ovations, weil alle an Nonno dachten.
I am grateful to Nonno Ernesto for his influence on Gianluca’s life. It seems likely that Gianluca wouldn’t have gone into music if not for him. We probably wouldn’t have Il Volo to enjoy. What if only Piero and Ignazio had showed up for that competition at Te Lascio Una Canzone? Would the influential people have formed them into a Duo?
Rest in peace Nonno Ernesto 🙏❤️
My condolences to Gianluca and his family. Gianluca and his grandfather had a special bond . My prayers are with him.
Thank you indeed so much Daniela and Pat for sharing this with us and for the lovely words. My warmest thoughts go out to Gianluca, his father and the entire Ginoble family now going through a very difficult time following their great loss.
No doubt that Nonno Ernesto was a very kind and friendly man appreciated and loved by everyone in the community and not the least by his family. We have all come to learn how much Gianluca loved him – they had an unusual strong bond that will remain with him forever. He never missed an opportunity to speak of his Nonno and praise him for his doings and for introducing him to the world of music and singing. From stage he has with pride countless times shared stories from his upbringing about by request shyly singing at the town square with his back to Nonno and Nonno’s friends. And how – when performing for the first time with the Barbara Streisand Show in New York – he could hardly concentrate on same as his mind was fully occupied with happiness of having his Nonno coming over and be in the audience. That seemed more important to him that the concert itself. Later we have heard him tell over and over how important it is to listen to and learn from the elders – respect and love them for all their wisdom – to appreciate them as long as we have them with us. He definitely lived his own words. And personally I have envied him for this wonderful grandfather-grandson relationship, as in my country – Denmark – the younger generations generally see the elders as a big burden that they don’t want to deal with but rather just put into boxes to be dealt with by the society. And their thoughts and wisdom come to no use. Many, many elderly sit lonely days after days in the nursing homes without visits or caring contact. Luckily dear Nonno Ernesto didn’t have to experience this surrounded by friends and his loving family to the very last. Kudos.
I don’t think Nonno Ernesto has had an easy life – I recall having read that he had to move to Switzerland for work – but of much greater value has been his ability to be there for his friends and family, be a solid support and guidance to the following generation, spread love and accumulate great respect. He is indeed worthy of all the praise giving to him today. He will be thoroughly missed but stay in the hearts of his beloved forever.
Warmest regards – Kirsten, Denmark
Sehr schön gesagt, Kirsten. Bei dem gestrigen Konzert in Mantua gab es minutenlang Standing Ovations nach Halleluja, weil die Fans auch an Nonno dachten.
Vielen Dank. Es freuet mich. Und es freuet mich, dass du die Möglichkeit in Mantua zu sein hast – immer schöne Konzerte. Leider funtionierte es fuer uns mit unsen Reisepläne dieses Jahr nicht. Viele Grüsse – Kirsten
You’re most welcome, Kirsten! 😊 My prayers are with Nonno Ernesto’s friends and family.
I add my condolences to Gian’s family and himself on their loss. All 3 have suffered losses of close family members while they grew up together. Last night was really tough but the other 2 were encouraging and supportive. I am sure it brought back their own rough time.
Just want to say please, for the sake of babies and elderly, get a portable air conditioner and cool off 1 room in your home when there is excessive heat and sure they drink a lot of water.
Also congratulations on the latest award. Let’s hope for a Grammy soon.
If they do some promotion before US shows check local TV to see if they are coming on.
Aren’t you curious as to what is happening from January through June 2027?
I don’t have F.B. etc. Are there any pictures of Gabriel with Katerina and Nina?
Thank you, as always to the “Flight Crew” reporting this posting. All of you have shown respect and kindness on this sad occasion. But I would like to say to Kirsten, that your thoughts and comments were very “well said”. There has been much outpouring of support and prayers for Nonno Ernesto’s family and friends. Peace to all.
Thank you so very much for your kind words Barb. Best regards – Kirsten
My condolences to the Ginoble family. What a beautiful tribute to him and he will be watching over Gianluca and your family forever. Rest in peace Mr Ginoble.
Linda from Pittsburgh 🇺🇸🇮🇹❤️✝️🙏
My grandparents were from Abruzzo La quila. I called them nonno and nonna
Linda from Pittsburgh
The miles between us are nothing because your group is always in my heart. We may be apart, Il Volo, but you guys are always in my thoughts. It is hard to understand Gian why our loved ones are taken from us, but find comfort in knowing you were a special part of such a well-lived life. When the Lord calls our loved ones home, he leaves a gift of memories in exchange. It takes a little darkness for us to see the stars, and a whole lifetime to reach them. Many happy memories carry you, Gian, through this sorrowful time; memories are the legacy of LOVE.
From Natividad, with love.
Ciao NONO ERNESTO…
Muore solo chi viene dimenticato ! per sempre nei nostri cuori ! baci a GIAN e alla famiglia !!! Giuseppina da NIZZA !!! <3 <3
Thank you from my heart to Daniela and Pat. This is a beautiful tribute to Gian, his family and to his Nonno. Gian when you love so deeply and pain is so deep it is also your love that is so deep and eternal that the connection with your darling Nonno will be with you for all eternity. You, your brother Ernesto and your mom and dad will be seeing, feeling and loving him in your hearts forever. I hope that’s a cancellation to all of you, he’s with you always and you all know that Jesus will take excellent care of him as they have for our own grandparents and my husband.
Sending you, Gian, my love and admiration always. You are such a wonderful and so talented young man.
With my love and admiration always, your friend and fan, Carol Orlando 💖💖💖🎶🎵🎼🎹🎤❤️🤗😘🙏🏻☮️🇺🇸
I thank everyone for the kind comments addressed to Grandpa Ernesto and for acknowledging the grief of his entire family. 🙏
I am so sorry for this great loss to the entire family.