It is with deep respect and heartfelt gratitude that I write these lines in memory of a remarkable person Guido Celentano, a great friend, truly kind, humble, and down-to-earth human being whose generosity and compassion touched countless lives far beyond the university walls.
On Tuesday, 07 July 2026, I received a message from my PhD supervisor, Dr. Fabio Miletto Granozio, beginning with the words, “Dear Riaz, I am contacting you today for really a very bad news….”. It is difficult to describe the emotions I felt as I read those words. Tears came to my eyes as I was overwhelmed by the heartbreaking news about the passing of our dear colleague and friend, Guido Celentano. Because I spent so much time with him, both professionally and personally, I had the privilege of knowing him more closely than many of my fellow PhD students of that time.
Well, it has been nearly two decades now that he was a good friend of mine and a source of affection. I first came into contact with Guido through email correspondence in year 2007 as a PhD student, before meeting him in person for the first time in April 2008. From the very first meeting, he did not seem like just a PhD secretary or university staff member; he appeared to me as a kind and sincere friend. His warm smile, gentle nature, and willingness to help immediately made me feel warm welcome in a new country (Italy).
My relationship with Guido extended far beyond the walls of the university. While he was the PhD secretary who supported me in official matters throughout my doctoral studies, he was equally present in my life outside the university. Actually, during my stay in Napoli as a PhD student, I was not living alone—I was living with my wife and our two little children. Doing a PhD with a family in a foreign country is not always easy, but Guido made this journey remarkably smooth for me. He personally helped us find suitable accommodation, visiting several apartments with us and always making sure we selected the best possible home for our family. He treated our concerns as if they were his own.
As already said, his support extended far beyond university matters. Guido was always available whenever we needed assistance. Whether it was visiting the post office, the police office, immigration offices, hospitals, vaccination centers, or handling countless administrative procedures, he was always there—punctual, well-prepared, and carrying all the necessary documents. His dedication was extraordinary, and he never made us feel that such sort of helping was a burden.
One of the most unforgettable moments was the birth of our second child in Napoli. I still remember, our child was born around 2:00 A.M. at Ospedale SS. Annunziata, Napoli. Early the following Monday morning, Guido was the very first person to arrive at the hospital, accompanied by Dr. Maria Rosaria Masullo (Dr. Iaia), another wonderfully kind soul. Their presence during such an important family moment is something my family and I will cherish forever. It reflected the genuine care and humanity that defined Guido’s character.
Although Guido is no longer with us, the impact of his compassion continues to live on in the hearts of those he helped. My family and I will always remember him with profound respect, gratitude, and affection. Today, as I remember those moments and reflect on Guido’s kindness, I find tears in my eyes. His memory brings both sadness and immense gratitude. He was not simply a helpful colleague or a university staff member—he was a very kind soul in human form. He touched not only my life but also the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him. His kindness, humility and selfless service will forever remain an inspiration.
As I recollect Guido’s memories today, I realize that I could write thousands of pages about him. Every memory reminds me of another act of kindness, another moment of selfless help, another example of his extraordinary humanity. No words can fully capture the goodness of his heart or the countless ways he touched the lives of those around him.
After completing my PhD in December 2011, Guido remained in touch with me through emails. In many of his messages, he expressed his wish that we would meet again—whether in Pakistan, Italy, or somewhere else in the world. Sadly, that meeting will no longer be possible in this life. I will definitely miss his company, his friendship, and his kindness more than words can express. For nearly two decades, he remained not only a friend but also a source of affection, encouragement, and genuine humanity. In fact, his absence leaves a vacant space that can never be filled, but his memories will remain alive in our heart and mind forever.
Thank you, Guido, for everything you did for us. Your kindness, professionalism, and countless contributions will always be remembered and appreciated by all those who had the privilege of knowing you.
As a lasting tribute to Guido’s remarkable dedication and kindness, it is my sincere wish, and with due respect, I humbly request the authorities of the Department of Physics, University of Naples “Federico II” to consider dedicating a corridor, or the area near his office, or the surroundings of the PhD students’ Room in his name. Such a gesture would serve as a fitting and enduring reminder of a person whose kindness, commitment, and persistent support extended far beyond his official responsibilities. It would ensure that future students and colleagues remember not only his invaluable services to the Department but also the genuine humanity with which he touched so many lives.
Finally, my thoughts and prayers are with Guido’s family, friends, and all colleagues who are mourning this great loss. May he rest in peace, and may his memories and legacy of kindness continue to inspire others for generations to come.
With deepest sympathy,
Muhammad Riaz (PhD, 23rd Cycle)
Currently in Department of Physics
University of the Punjab, Lahore-54590
Pakistan.