During the 2025 TTG Travel Experience in Rimini, Skål Roma International and Skål Italy hosted a moment of remembrance dedicated to Dr David Fontanella, who left us one year ago. The gathering brought together Skålleagues from across Europe, representatives of ITA Airways, and many friends who had worked with David over the years. It was an emotional and meaningful tribute to a man whose life embodied the spirit of Skål: friendship, respect, and collaboration across borders.
David Fontanella was not only a respected professional and past President of Skål Switzerland — he was also an active member of the Skål Europe Board, where he played a key role in fostering dialogue and unity during a complex period of transformation for the organisation. His ability to listen, mediate, and inspire confidence made him a vital bridge between clubs, committees, and national structures. In moments when change brought uncertainty, David’s calm presence and sense of perspective helped maintain cohesion and friendship among members.
Those who had the privilege to work with him remember his clarity of thought, his sense of humour, and his unwavering belief that the essence of Skål lies not in hierarchy, but in people — in shared values, mutual support, and the joy of being together. He reminded us that friendship is not a business accessory; it is the foundation upon which all meaningful collaboration is built.
At the TTG stand, photos and videos retraced David’s journey within Skål, from his early involvement in Switzerland to his active participation at the European level. Messages of affection and gratitude arrived from colleagues and friends across the continent. In a message from Dr Franz Heffeter, President of Skål Europe, David was remembered as “a person of great integrity and warmth, whose contribution helped build bridges across cultures and generations within our European community.”
The moment of remembrance was simple but deeply touching — a reflection of the man himself. As glasses were raised in his memory, the atmosphere was not one of sadness, but of gratitude: gratitude for his leadership, his friendship, and the many lives he touched.
Today, a year after his passing, Skål Europe honours Dr David Fontanella not only as a dedicated member of the Board, but as a man who truly lived the Skål motto: Happiness, Good Health, Friendship, Long Life.
His example continues to guide us — a reminder that even in times of change, the strength of our organisation lies in the human bonds we nurture.
