Obituary of Francis G. Vitetta

Francis (Frank) Guy Vitetta, April 8, 1932 ~ October 15, 2015 Frank Vitetta was born in Mamaroneck, New York to Guy (Gaetano) Vitetta of Cosenza, Italy and Theresa Rapoli of Naples, Italy. He was the loving father of Guy Jonathan Vitetta, Stacy Ann Vitetta (d. 1982) and Robin Maria Miller; husband to Dollie, Father-in-Law to Betsy Grund and Darren Miller; grandfather to Lisa and Maddie Vitetta, and Kyle and Luke Miller. Frank will be remembered by all his relatives as loyal, loving and dutiful; he was an example of the consummate family man. Frank attended F.E. Bellow High School and the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned a degree in Architecture and Engineering. In his career, Frank created public structures of efficiency and functionality, which added beauty to the Philadelphia landscape and often served the civic goal of historic preservation. The architectural firm, Vitetta, is known for its work in creating the Pennsylvania Convention Center, the Philadelphia Justice Center, the restoration of Philadelphia City Hall, and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, in addition to many other educational, correction, and healthcare projects throughout the country. As well as a trusted friend and colleague, Frank was an effective civil servant and leader. He served the Lower Gwynedd Township and Old York Road Country Club; lent his expertise to establishing the Korean War Memorial for Veterans, and served the Civil War Underground Railroad Museum Board. He was relied upon as an expert arbitrator and consultant in architectural matters with the American Arbitration Association. He also served on the Board of Trustees Drexel University. One of his proudest achievements was recognized this year: in April, Frank was awarded an honorary doctorate by Arcadia University for his service as a trustee and benefactor. He served Arcadia in honor of his daughter, Stacy Ann Vitetta, service which reflects his dedication to his own, and others', life-long learning. Frank's legacy is his example of generosity and service to benefit others, be they family, friends, or the greater community of Philadephia and other places his warmth and works are felt. Thank you, Frank, we will honor your presence in our lives by living by your extraordinarily beautiful example. Services will be private. Those desiring may contribute in Frank's memory to Arcadia University, 450 S. Easton Rd., Glenside PA 19038. Expressions of sympathy may be made at www.msrfh.com (Moore, Snear, & Ruggiero Funeral Home and Crematory).