In that situation, though, Vito had pretty much been groomed from a very early age and by all accounts was fairly well respected by his father's admin. I doubt whomever ends up leading the Nick/Vito faction will have the last name Rizzuto. Well, maybe if Vito's son who was involved in the life hadn't been whacked.

You're right though there is at least some precedent for it happening in North America.