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The Scavuzzo Family Papers

 Collection
Identifier: SDASM-SC-10280

Abstract

This collection contains materials collected by and related to the Scavuzzo Family including Frank and Jeanne Scavuzzo. It includes biographies, photographs and personal items of the family. The majority of content is military records of Frank Scavuzzo.

Dates

  • Majority of material found within 1940 - 1945

Extent

1 Cubic Feet (Content notes: This collection contains materials collected by and related to the Scavuzzo Family including Frank and Jeanne Scavuzzo. It includes biographies, photographs and personal items of the family. The majority of content is military records of Frank Scavuzzo. ) : Description: This is a one box collection, measuring 15.5x13.5x5”. ; one box collection, measuring 15.5x13.5x5”.

Language of Materials

English

Bibliography

Frank Scavuzzo was born on March 30, 1919, in Rochester, New York, to Santo and Maria Scavuzzo. Raised in a close-knit Italian-American family, Frank’s early years were shaped by a strong sense of duty and commitment to family. His calling to serve came with the attack on Pearl Harbor, and in the early days of World War II, Frank enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps, serving as a navigator and rising to the rank of Captain before his discharge in 1945. It was during his service in the Air Corps, stationed in San Raphael, California, that Frank met Jeanne Hartle, a young woman from Canton, Illinois. Jeanne was born on September 30, 1923, in Canton, and her life, much like Frank’s, was grounded in strong family values and faith. Their love story began in California during the war, a time when distance and uncertainty made love a precious and rare thing. On July 2, 1945, Frank and Jeanne married in San Anselmo, California, beginning a partnership that would last a lifetime. Following their marriage, the couple returned to the Midwest and settled in the Quad Cities. There, Frank and Jeanne built a life centered around faith, family, and community. They raised four children—Marcia, Marlena, Thomas, and Frank Jr.—and established a deep connection with Christ the King Catholic Church, where they were founding members. Jeanne was also actively involved in her community, becoming a cherished member of the Kings Daughters, a women’s organization focused on charity and service. Together, Frank and Jeanne shared a strong sense of duty not only to their country but also to their family and neighbors. They were deeply engaged in local organizations, including Welcome Wagon, and enjoyed playing bridge with friends. While Frank built a successful career in the grocery industry, ultimately founding Scavuzzo Sales & Marketing, Jeanne’s contributions to their home and family were just as invaluable. She was a loving wife, dedicated mother, and the heart of their family. Her presence in the home made it a place of warmth, comfort, and love. After retiring, Frank and Jeanne enjoyed their time together, with Frank cultivating a beautiful garden that became the pride of their neighborhood, while Jeanne brought joy to everyone around her through her kindness and generosity. Sadly, Jeanne passed away on May 4, 1991, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication. Although her physical presence was gone, Frank continued to honor their love in the years that followed, cherishing the family they had built together. Frank often spoke of her with deep affection, and it was clear that their bond had shaped every aspect of his life. Frank passed away on June 3, 2013, at the age of 94, after a brief illness. Surrounded by his children and grandchildren. He was laid to rest with military honors at St. Mary’s Cemetery, East Moline, alongside Jeanne, where they rest together, forever united in spirit.

Physical Description

Description: This is a one box collection, measuring 15.5x13.5x5”.

Content notes: This collection contains materials collected by and related to the Scavuzzo Family including Frank and Jeanne Scavuzzo. It includes biographies, photographs and personal items of the family. The majority of content is military records of Frank Scavuzzo.

Title
The Descriptive Finding Guide for the Scavuzzo Family Papers
Author
AR
Date
2025
Description rules
Describing Archives: A Content Standard
Language of description
English
Script of description
Latin

Repository Details

Part of the San Diego Air and Space Museum Library and Archives Repository

Contact:
2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park
San Diego 92101 USA US
(619) 234-8291
(619) 233-4525 (Fax)