Dionísio Sganzerla, chess icon in Goiânia, dies at 96

Dionísio Sganzerla, known as Sr. Dionísio, a prominent chess figure in Goiânia, passed away at the age of 96. He was widely recognized for his presence at the Goiânia Shopping food court, where he spent over 20 years playing and teaching the game.

An Italian-born naturalized Brazilian and retired journalist, Sganzerla was a beloved community figure who offered free chess lessons to people of all ages, from children to experienced players. He was also known for his habit of sharing sweets with those he interacted with. In 2023, he received a Certificate of Merit for the Elderly from the Legislative Assembly of Goiás.

Goiânia Shopping expressed its condolences on social media, stating that while the chessboard may now be silent, the memories of his matches and conversations remain. His dedicated space at the mall had become a local landmark known as the ‘Cantinho do Sr. Dionísio’.