Fred A. Matula

Fred A. Matula, age 85, of West, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family early Tuesday morning, March 16, 2010 at his residence. A rosary will be recited 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at Aderhold Funeral Home by Janice Kaluza, with visitation to follow until 8:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 a.m. Thursday at St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption, with Rev. Ed Karasek as celebrant. Military Graveside Rites will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery near West. Fred was born December 3, 1924 near West, the son of Emil and Ludmila (Grones) Matula. He served his country with the United States Army during World War II in the chemical mortor division stationed in the Phillipines. On August 26, 1947, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Evelyn (Pinter) Matula in Abbott. Fred was a farmer and rancher all of his life and never retired because his work was his passion. He enjoyed taking care of his cattle, fixing things, farming, playing dominoes, and especially loved spending time with his grandchildren. He was a lifelong member of St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption. He was also a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4819 and S.P.J.S.T. Lodge #66. He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Henry Matula and Robert Matula; and a sister, Georgie Smetak. Survivors include his beloved wife of 62 years, Evelyn Matula of West; a son, Larry F. Matula and wife Mitzi of Elm Mott; three daughters, Nancy Polasek and husband Gary, Linda Beseda and husband John, and Mary Ann Johnson, all of West; a brother, Albert Matula of Abbott; nine grandchildren, Christopher Matula, Dustin Matula, Laura Barretto and husband Alex, Sarah Boyea and husband Luke, John Beseda II, Becky Beseda, Katie Johnson, Leah Johnson, and David Johnson; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Pallbearers are Christopher Matula, Dustin Matula, John Beseda II, David Johnson, John Beseda, Gary Polasek, Alex Barretto, and Luke Boyea. Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.