Francis G. Vitetta, 83, architect
Francis G. Vitetta, 83, of Spring House, an architect whose firm built or restored many notable structures in Philadelphia and New Jersey, died Thursday, Oct. 15, of a heart attack at home.
Francis G. Vitetta, 83, of Spring House, an architect whose firm built or restored many notable structures in Philadelphia and New Jersey, died Thursday, Oct. 15, of a heart attack at home.
Known as Frank, Mr. Vitetta was born in Mamaroneck, N.Y., after his parents came to this country from Italy.
He attended F.E. Bellows High School and the University of Pennsylvania, graduating with a degree in architecture and engineering.
Starting in the early 1980s, his company, the Vitetta Group, created public buildings known for efficiency and functionality. Some projects centered on historic preservation.
The firm designed the Convention Center and the Philadelphia Justice Center. It restored City Hall and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, and worked on other education, corrections, and health-care buildings, most in Pennsylvania, South Jersey and Delaware.
Mr. Vitetta was a civic worker and leader with Lower Gwynedd Township, Old York Road Country Club, and Gwynedd Mercy Academy. He helped establish the Korean War Memorial for Veterans, and served on the Civil War and Underground Railroad Museum Board.
The American Arbitration Association used him as an arbitrator and consultant in architectural matters. He also was a trustee of Drexel and Arcadia Universities. Last spring, Mr. Vitetta was awarded an honorary doctorate by Arcadia for his longtime service to the school.
He and what was then Beaver College had a personal connection. In 1982, his daughter Stacy Ann died from a lingering illness a year before she was to graduate. Mr. Vitetta and his wife, Dollie, set up a professorship in their daughter's name in 1995. Awarded every two years, it assists young faculty members who want to do independent research.
His family described Mr. Vitetta as kind and dutiful, and one who taught by example. "He was the consummate family man," his relatives said.
He enjoyed playing golf and following the Eagles.
Besides his wife of 57 years, he is survived by son Guy J.; daughter Robin M. Miller; four grandchildren; and a sister.
Plans for a memorial service were pending.
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