Tragedy struck the Italian community of Biassono as Lorenzo Rovagnati, the prominent CEO of the Rovagnati company, lost his life in a helicopter crash on February 5, 2025. The accident occurred around 7:20 PM at Castelguelfo, part of Noceto, located within the province of Parma. Rovagnati, only 41 years old, was well-regarded for his leadership of the historic salami-producing company and was set to leave behind his wife, Federica, and their two children, with another child on the way.
The helicopter reportedly encountered dense fog shortly after takeoff, prompting investigations to determine the exact cause of the crash. Eyewitness reports suggest the aircraft was attempting to return to land when it struck the ground within the family's castle grounds, a place Rovagnati frequented almost every Wednesday.
The mayor of Biassono, Luciano Casiraghi, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating, "I am incredulous: it's a sad day for Biassono." He declared public mourning until the funeral services for Rovagnati were held. The mayor characterized Rovagnati as "a good, honest, and hardworking young man, loved and respected by everyone who knew him," highlighting the loss felt across the community.
Lorenzo Rovagnati was not only known for his role as CEO but for the legacy he continued from his family’s business, which has been operational since 1941. The company specializes in the production of high-quality ham and salami and boasts three factories located across Brianza and one in Felino, Emilia Romagna, totaling over 400 employees. Under his leadership, the company thrived, maintaining its strong presence in the food industry and contributing significantly to the local economy.
The broader Italian business community also voiced their condolences, with Alessandro Spada, the President of Assolombarda, commenting on Rovagnati’s passion and determination which epitomized Italian entrepreneurship. "He showed passion and determination typical of the entrepreneurship making Made Italy great around the world," Spada remarked. The organization expressed their condolences to Rovagnati's family, noting his contributions to both business and society.
Rovagnati’s colleagues and friends shared stories of him being both accessible and ambitious, instilling confidence and dedication within the company and the community. They emphasized his commitment to innovation and progress, as well as his active participation in local economic development which made him not just a businessman but also a civic leader.
The loss reverberated throughout Biassono, where the community struggled to process the sudden death of such a beloved figure. Lorenzo’s passing symbolizes not just the loss of a leader but also the fading of local heritage tied to the Rovagnati name. With the tragedy being likened by some to past aviation incidents, many noted the painful repeat of history, recalling other sudden losses affecting Italian entrepreneurship.
Condolences poured not just from family and friends but from local and regional officials, with sentiments echoed by Alessandro Corbetta, the leader of the Lega party in Lombardy, who stated, "A tragic death leaves us speechless." His passing leaves behind much more than just familial absence—a void experienced by the entire community.
Mayor Casiraghi expressed how difficult it is to accept such loss: "Lorenzo had before him still such great future, both as a father and entrepreneur, but sadly life reserved something terrible for him. This tragic day has shaken us all deeply."
Rovagnati’s legacy extends beyond the family business; he was also deeply involved in local sports and charitable initiatives, reflecting his commitment to the community. Many looked to him as not just the head of the Rovagnati company but as someone who personified the spirit of Biassono—a dedicated, good-hearted soul who imparted integrity to all whom he worked with.
With the community coming together to honor the life and accomplishments of Lorenzo Rovagnati, Biassono's public mourning reflects more than just grief; it symbolizes respect for the values he instilled and the progress he sought for both his company and his town.