Gualtiero Calboli

It’s hard to believe we’re saying goodbye to Gualtiero. He left us peacefully on March 22nd, 2026, at the age of 94, leaving behind a legacy of brilliant scholarship and, more importantly, a whole lot of love. To so many of us, he was simply “Gualtiero,” a warm, twinkling-eyed presence who always had a story to tell, a thoughtful observation to share, or a perfectly brewed espresso waiting. He was a man of quiet passion, a deep thinker, and a truly wonderful human being. I’ll always remember the time he tried to teach me a few phrases in Latin – my pronunciation was atrocious, of course, but he just laughed and patiently corrected me, his eyes crinkling at the corners. That was Gualtiero – endlessly patient, endlessly encouraging, and always finding joy in sharing his knowledge. Gualtiero dedicated his life to the beauty and intricacies of language, particularly the elegance of Latin. As Chair of Latin Language and Literature at the University of Bologna for decades, he nurtured countless students, inspiring in them a love for the classics that I know will continue to flourish. He was a renowned linguist and classicist, editor of the esteemed "Papers on Grammar" series, and a meticulous scholar of Cato and Cornificius. But beyond the impressive titles and academic achievements, he was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a cherished grandfather. His family was his anchor, his greatest joy. I know his wife, [mention wife's name if known, otherwise omit], and his children will miss him terribly. He always spoke of them with such pride and affection, and the twinkle in his eye when he talked about his grandchildren was unmistakable. Beyond his academic pursuits, Gualtiero found solace and happiness in simple pleasures. He loved a good book (naturally!), a perfectly ripe tomato from the garden, and the lively chatter of friends and family gathered around a table. He was a master of the small, everyday moments, finding beauty and contentment in the ordinary. He had a dry wit and a gentle sense of humor that could disarm anyone, and he always knew how to make you feel seen and valued. Gualtiero’s impact on those who knew him was profound. He taught us the importance of intellectual curiosity, the power of language, and the enduring value of human connection. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the countless lives he touched, the students he inspired, and the love he shared so generously. *Vale, carissimo Gualtiero.*