Pier Luigi Minghetti

Pier Luigi "Gino" Minghetti. 

Gino Minghetti, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and community legend, passed away peacefully at the age of 91. Born on November 27, 1933, in the beautiful seaside town of Gaeta, Italy, Gino brought a legacy of love, tradition, and vibrant energy to all who knew him.

Arriving in the United States on June 4, 1956, aboard the ship Olympia, disembarking on Ellis Island, New York, Gino settled in Sudbury, Massachusetts, where he lived with his aunt and began to build a life rooted in hard work and dedication. 

Gino carried on his family’s proud tradition as a barber, a legacy passed down through generations, beginning with his great-great-grandfather. He began cutting hair at just 8 years old, working alongside his father in their barbershop in Gaeta. With skilled hands and a warm smile, Gino shared this cherished craft with his community throughout his life. He pursued his dream of becoming a master barber by enrolling in barber and hairdressing school. It was there that he met the love of his life, a feisty and beautiful woman named Eleanor Attardo. Gino was smitten from the start and asked her out countless times, but Eleanor wasn’t easily won over. It wasn’t until she saw his dazzling ballroom dancing skills that she agreed to a date.

After graduating together, Gino and Eleanor began their life in South Boston, where Eleanor had grown up. The couple faced heartbreak when their first child tragically passed at birth. However, their love and resilience brought them hope, and they were soon blessed with their daughters; Tina, followed by Elisa, and then the delightful surprise of Mariann.

Gino worked tirelessly to provide for his family. Traveling daily from South Boston to Somerville, he found a community of friends and “paisans” who became like family. He eventually opened Gino’s Barbershop on Broadway in Somerville, where his warmth, charm, and expertise earned him a loyal clientele. Later, Gino and Eleanor bought a home in Somerville, where Gino built a barbershop in the basement, solidifying his legacy as one of the most beloved barbers in the area.

As president of the Barber Association of America, Gino represented his craft across the country, sharing his passion and leadership. Over the years, he served many notable figures, including Massachusetts politicians and the state attorney general. He often said that he was “90% sure” he once cut President Obamas hair. 

Gino’s barbershop was more than a place for haircuts—it was a haven. Clients would come not just for a hot towel shave but for Gino’s stories, laughter, and the joy of escaping life’s pressures for a while. His love for music, comedians, and ballroom dancing made him a vibrant and unforgettable character. Wherever his daughters went out and met people , many would recognize the name Gino’s Barbershop, with stories of their own about him. His legacy continues through his grandsons Tadgh and John-John, who have met younger barbers who speak of Gino with admiration and fondness and their own stories of Gino. 

In addition to barbering, Gino worked a second job at The Boston Globe in Billerica, where he formed close friendships with sons-in-law, Denis Murray and John McIsaac. Their antics, including the legendary story of Gino “borrowing” snow salt and hilariously improvising when caught, are part of the many treasured memories they shared. The laughter and stories they’re now sharing in heaven must be truly remarkable.

After decades of barbering, Gino decided to retire—though he never fully left the profession. He would meet his friends, including his best friend and cousin Bruno Nardone, at Dunkin’ Donuts. There, a lively group of Italians would gather to laugh, argue over politics, and form connections with the workers and regulars who came to enjoy their vibrant conversations.

Even into his 80’s, Gino’s zest for life was unstoppable. He went ballroom dancing three nights a week, charming everyone on the dance floor with his energy and grace. This passion lasted until a battle with colon cancer during COVID required him to slow down. Gino then moved to Westford, where his devoted daughters cared for him. Though he missed dancing every day, his years of activity helped him remain remarkably independent well into his 90’s. 

His family attributes his longevity to his dedication to legendary home-cooked meals, his love for the fish eyes he would eat right from the catch, and his nightly glass of red wine—often finished with a concoction of his daughters’ leftover drinks. That mix, they joked, may have been the secret to his long, full life.

Gino was immensely proud of his grandchildren: Ariana (Minghetti) Favaloro, John Minghetti, Tadgh Murray, Leanora Murray, Aidan McIsaac, and Denis “Dinny” Murray. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Ellie and Noah Favaloro, who brought him endless joy.

The stories Gino leaves behind are countless, filled with laughter, wisdom, and unforgettable memories. One particularly memorable story is how he would take off his toupee and toss it on top of the refrigerator behind him, much to the embarrassment of his children when guests came over for a meal. 

From the barbershop to the dance floor, from Dunkin’ Donuts to family gatherings, Gino left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Predeceased by his beloved wife, Eleanor (Attardo), and his brother, Giacinto Minghetti of Gaeta, Italy, sons-in-law, John McIsaac of Salem, Ma, and Denis Murray of Cork, Ireland. Gino is survived by his daughters: Tina McIsaac of Salem, MA; Elisa Staffiere and son-in-law Robert Staffiere of Savannah, GA; and Mariann Murray of Westford, MA. He also leaves behind his cherished sister-in-law, Clara (Di Vuolo) Minghetti, nephews Salvatore and Marco Minghetti of Gaeta, Italy, and his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, along with many other extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Gino’s legacy is one of love, laughter, tradition, and resilience. His charismatic spirit, unwavering devotion to family, and passion for his craft will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. His stories and wisdom will continue to inspire generations, and his remarkable ability to make everyone feel like family will never be forgotten.

A visitation will be held for Gino on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 from 4:00pm to 8:00pm at the Badger Funeral Homes Inc, located at 347 King Street, Littleton, Massachusetts, 01460. A funeral mass will follow on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 10:00am at the Blessed Trinity Parish - St. Catherine of Alexandria Church, located at 107 North Main Street, Westford, Massachusetts, 01886. The burial will take place on the same day at 12:00pm at St Michael Cemetery, which is located at 500 Canterbury Street, Boston, Massachusetts, 02131.

For those who wish to attend services remotely, please visit the live stream link below, five minutes prior to the scheduled service time. 
Livestream Link: Badger Livestream: https://iframe.dacast.com/b/156599/c/541147

Arrangements are under the care of Badger Funeral Home, A Life Celebration Home, 347 King St. Littleton, MA 01460.