Man, We Lost Another Great Person and a Great BBQ Cook – Remembering Ercole Chila

Man, We Lost Another Great Person and a Great BBQ Cook – Remembering Ercole Chila

It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that we share the tragic news of the passing of Ercole Chila, a beloved friend, neighbor, and master of the grill. Ercole’s life was unexpectedly cut short due to a devastating car accident, leaving his family, friends, and entire community in shock and deep mourning. His absence has created a void that will be impossible to fill, and the echoes of his laughter, kindness, and smoky barbecue aromas will forever linger in our hearts.

Ercole Chila was more than just a great cook—he was a larger-than-life presence, the kind of person who could light up a backyard gathering with his humor, his stories, and of course, his legendary barbecue. Whether it was ribs slow-smoked to perfection, brisket so tender it fell apart with a fork, or his secret-recipe dry rub that had people lining up for seconds (and thirds), Ercole put his heart and soul into everything he cooked. But it wasn’t just about the food—it was about bringing people together. He used his grill as a tool for community, and his home became a place where friendships were forged, memories were made, and everyone was welcome.

Born with a natural gift for hospitality, Ercole was the kind of man who never let anyone leave hungry or unnoticed. He had a special way of making people feel seen and appreciated. He remembered the little things—your favorite side dish, how you liked your steak, or the story you told him the last time you met. He listened deeply, laughed often, and gave generously of his time and talents.

Away from the smoker and grill, Ercole was a dedicated family man. He loved fiercely and lived fully, always putting his loved ones first. He was a supportive father, a devoted husband, a loyal friend, and a dependable neighbor. The same hands that carefully basted ribs and stirred homemade sauces were the hands that comforted, helped, and held up those around him during their hardest times.

News of his passing has sent waves of grief through every corner of the community. It’s hard to believe that someone so full of life, so present in every moment, is no longer with us. Tributes have poured in from friends near and far, each one telling a story of a time Ercole made them smile, made them feel at home, or cooked them the best meal they’d ever had. It’s clear that his life, though tragically cut short, made a lasting impact on everyone lucky enough to know him.

In the coming days and weeks, we will gather to mourn, to remember, and to celebrate the man who gave us so much. There will be stories shared around fire pits, toasts made in his honor, and cookouts where his spirit will surely be felt in every bite and every laugh.

Ercole Chila’s legacy will live on in more ways than one. In every backyard barbecue, in every shared meal among friends, in every act of kindness and community—his memory will burn bright. Let us honor him by loving harder, living fuller, and never forgetting the power of a good meal to bring people together.

Rest in peace, Ercole. You were truly one of a kind, and we’ll miss you more than words can say.