Gianfranco Gamberale

Gianfranco "Franco" Gamberale, 84 years old, of Bradley, IL, passed away surrounded by his family on July 21, 2025. In life, he followed his passion and became a successful restaurateur, managing several prestigious establishments in Chicago, such as The Signature Room (where he served as Captain upon its opening in 1969), Hugo's at The Hyatt Regency O'Hare, and was recruited to set up and manage The Gaslight Club. In the early '80s, he and his wife of 63 years, Maria, owned Gianfranco's in Old Town, followed by LaFontanella Ristorante, which he owned for 34 years (1986-2000).

Franco was born in Nicastro, Italy, on December 18, 1940. He moved to Auronzo di Cadore at the age of two, which he regarded as his hometown. He was a devoted husband to Maria Elina (Soler) Gamberale, loving father to Frank (Maria), Jennifer, Melissa (John) Kapidis, and Anthony. He was a proud grandfather to Theresa Rose (Gabriel) Macedo, John Franco (Vanessa), Maximo Frank, Gianna Marie Wright, Dominic Anthony Wright, Dimitrios John Kapidis, and Dante Franco Kapidis. Additionally, he was a cherished brother-in-law to Norma Gamberale, a great-grandfather, an uncle, a great-uncle, and a great-great-uncle.

Franco was born to the late Eugenio and Giulia (Zandegiacomo) Gamberale. He was preceded in death by his siblings Luigi, Maria (Lino) Chiodo, and Anna (Antonio) Fiorelli.

A die-hard Cubs fan, Franco loved watching sports. His favorite hobbies included fishing and enjoying the outdoors at his cabin in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. He had many friends and was an active member of his neighborhood, The Heart of Chicago, and enjoyed participating in the annual Pasta Vino Fest (a.k.a. The Oakley Fest).

A funeral mass will be held at St. Paul Catholic Church, 2127 W. 22nd Place, Chicago, IL, on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 10 am. A private Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. In place of flowers, please consider donating to your local animal shelter.