It is with much sadness that I say goodbye to my friend, Pietro Mazza.
He was a link for so many West Virginians to their Italian heritage in Calabria. His museum was visited by many Americans and they 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.
He 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 Festival 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.
He 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 of Pasqualina, his beautiful smile and his soft-spoken, kind words to everyone. Rest in peace my friend. Ciao until we meet again.
