Private Louis Pete Gamba

Birth: May 14, 1920 in Comox, BC
Death: May 23, 1944 in Italy
Service: WWII
Service Number: K53236

Biography:
Louis Pete Gamba moved with his family to Richmond from Comox, where Louis attended Richmond High School. On his attestation papers his occupation was given as labourer, his religion as Roman Catholic, and his address was 585 No. 2 Road, Richmond. His next of kin was his mother, Erminia Gamba.   

On enlistment in February 1940 Louis, known as Pete, joined the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada and was posted to Toronto. He was posted overseas in July 1940 arriving in England August 3, 1940. He was admitted to hospital briefly in November 1940 with influenza. Pete remained in England at various bases, including Aldershot, while he qualified as a mechanic.  

In June 1943 the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada embarked for Italy and during this campaign, Pete Gamba was awarded the Volunteer Medal and clasp on January 10, 1944. He was wounded on May 23, 1944 and died later that day. His brother Henry served with the Princess Louise motorcycle unit and his sister Mary with the air force at Pat Bay. His mother and sister Yolanda remained at home in Richmond.

History of the Road Name (Gamba Drive):

• Council Resolution to adopt road name: Council Minutes February 4, 1946, res. 8711, pg. 45