The Grapevine: Passing of Man who was Strong Link Between Clarksburg's WVIHF and San Giovanni
By Rosalyn Queen on September 03, 2026 from The Grapevine
It is with much sadness that I say goodbye to my friend, Pietro Mazza. He passed away Monday, August 24, just shy of another West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival.
He was a link for so many West Virginians to their Italian Heritage in Calabria. His museum in Italy was visited by many Americans, and they 
were always astounded by the history it contained. and its collection of artifacts from Clarksburg.
were always astounded by the history it contained. and its collection of artifacts from Clarksburg.
In my two-week visit to San Giovanni, he walked me through the graveyards, we visited all the churches, and he spent hours with me at the municipal building searching for my family. He found the home my father was born in.
Pietro and Pasqualina introduced me to many of my cousins who we were honored to dine with. He was my interpreter and never left my side.
He was the link to the West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival and San Giovanni. His attendance at the WVIHF for many years was always welcomed by his many friends here. He and Pasqualina were always welcome in my home and I cherished their visits.
Pietro was welcomed by our governors, our senators, our mayors and the thousands of attendees who watched him as he participated in the parade. He helped many Americans from West Virginia search for their San Giovanni family, and he welcomed with open arms those visiting San Giovanni.
I will always remember his loving care for Pasqualina, his beautiful smile and his soft spoken, kind words to everyone. Rest in peace my friend. Ciao, until we meet again.
Editor’s Note: Photo shows, from left, Pasqualina Mazza, Rosalyn Queen, Pietro Mazza, and David Mazza inside the museum in San Giovanni. Note, this (minus a few additions) was read during funeral services for Pietro as the author was requested to prepare something, which she gladly did.
.jpg)
