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Jens Family Funeral Services & Crematory - Manitowoc

1122 S. 8th Street

Manitowoc, Wisconsin

Russell Matar Obituary

Russell S. Matar Manitowoc Russell S. Matar age 62, died unexpectedly Sunday, July 14, 2013 at his residence. Russell was born on September 22, 1950 in Port Huron, MI son of Russell and Gloria (Thomas) Matar. He grew up in Port Huron and graduated from Port Huron Catholic High School in 1968. Russell moved to Manitowoc in the early 1970's and worked for the Armored Knight Supper Club. In 1972 Russell began his career with WOMT Radio and currently was serving as sales manager at WOMT Radio. He was a current member of the Manitowoc Kiwanis Club, a former member of the Manitowoc Jaycees and a former member of the Manitowoc Elk's Club. Survivors include two daughters and one son-in-law: Stefanie Matar, Manitowoc; Jaclyn (Michael) Bethke, Manitowoc; four grandchildren: Conner "Con-man" Bessler; Zachary "Wormy" Bauer; Jaide Bethke; Lydia Bethke; his mother: Gloria Olson, Port Huron, MI; his father and step-mother: Russell (Ginger) Matar, Burton, MI; one brother: Russell "Joe" Matar, Effingham, IL; two sisters and one brother-in-law: TaMara (Michael) Oertel, Clarkston, MI; Lisa Tramski, Port Huron, MI, cherished nieces, nephews, other relatives and countless friends also survive. He was preceded in death by his step-father: Ronald Olson. His life was an example of savoring every moment with family. Because that is all that mattered to him. His dedication and unconditional love for his friends and family was like no other. Russ coached and mentored the Two Rivers Ramblers from the late 80's to early 90's. He was heavily involved with the Kiwanis Fish Derby and Two Rivers Ethnic Fest. He enjoyed playing cards with his friends at Chewy's and daily conversations with the loyal staff at Four Seasons. Sports, music, and sitting around the bonfire were by far his favorite pastimes. *Our dad touched the lives of everyone who knew him and will be deeply missed. ~Remember......I'll always be here for you.~ A memorial service will take place at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, July 18, 2013 at the Jens Family Funeral Home & Crematory, 1122 S. 8th St., Manitowoc. Rev. Peter Mitchell will officiate with burial of his cremated remains in Port Huron, MI. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday, from 5:00 p.m. until the time of service at 7:00 p.m. Online condolences may be expressed at www.jensreinboldandpfeffer.com

Published by The Times Herald on Jul. 17, 2013.
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So sorry for the loss of this great guy. Missed him at the reunion. Love and prayers for the family he loved so much.

August 16, 2013

We all love and miss you uncle Rusty!!! <3

Christina

August 12, 2013

This news saddens everyone in our office. My deepest condolences to those who were especially close to his heart.
We are states away in Chicago, but Russ's warm spirit and lighthearted nature made an impact on our office. Of the hundreds of radio stations our company works with, Russ has always stood out as our favorite contact. He will be dearly missed.
Love, Broadcast Sales

Lily Wilkin

August 8, 2013

To the Matar Family;
My deepest condolences to your family. I knew Russ in the early 70's when he worked for WQTC in advertising. I managed the men's and boy's dept for Montgomery Ward at that time where his father Russ Sr. was the store mgr. We had many cups of coffee together talking about the events of the day. He truly was a genuine great guy. After reading all of the "Guest Book" entries it is apparent that Russ impacted many lives. He went too soon!

James Pozorski

August 5, 2013

I was saddened to hear about the passing of Russ. I have fond memories of working with him in Two Rivers at WQTC-15Q radio. That was back in the early 70s. Many years later I was fortunate enough to connect with Russ and have a great conversation about those days gone bye. He was a good friend back then. He was a good man and I know he had a good life. My condolences to all of his friends and family. He will truly be missed.

Michael Lamb

July 25, 2013

To Russ' family. I was sorry to hear about your father's passing. I remember Russ from kindergarten to 12th grade. I remember our fun walks to St. Stephens together along with Pete, Dave, Virginia, John and the other kids in the neighborhood. He was always fun to be around. My prayers are with you and the family.

Barb Wandelt-Zarzycki

July 21, 2013

Stefanie and Jacque,
Our deepest sympathy to you. We had some good times, and have fond memories of your dad; he was such a wonderful person, and a lot of fun. RIP, Russ.
George and Lois Witting

July 20, 2013

How very shocked I was to see Russ's obituary. My condolences go out to his entire family. Russ and my beloved Grandpa John Powalisz played poker every week at my grandparents house until God called my Grandpa home again. I remember fondly what a kind man Russ was and a great friend who was loved and respected by my Grandpa. Rest in peace Russ. Now you and my Grandpa can play poker once again as you watch over all of your family and friends here yet on earth.

Carrie M.

July 20, 2013

Stefanie, Jaclyn and your families, I am so very sorry to see that your father passed away. The greatest times we had at the old " Q " with John Barber, especially when we went out of town to do a basketball game. Your dad was such a GREAT guy, damn, too young! So many will miss him, so I pray that you may find some comfort in knowing this. My deepest sympathy to you!

Todd K. Hermann

July 19, 2013

Russ and I had a special relationship while attending PHC. We sat together with Howard Sheehan almost every day, when it was two boys and two girls at every table! We recently reconnected on Facebook and I loved seeing his family and hearing how proud he was of everyone. He went on a date with a good friend of mine in high school and she hit him in the head with a golf club at putt-putt! (by mistake of course). When they reconnected on Facebook, she wondered if he remembered. HOW could anyone forget that night. :) I was so looking forward to seeing him at our class reunion this weekend. He WILL be there but won't need to pay!!! So long Russell!

July 18, 2013

Regional Reps lost a great friend of the company and terrific Radio partner. Russ was a wonderful person and I enjoyed talking with him, laughing with him and selling his station over many years.
God speed, Russ.

Linley Grande-Hutchinson

July 18, 2013

Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. I am so sorry to hear of this saddness. Please let Zach know that Dj is thinking of him as well.

Mikki Reindl

July 18, 2013

I was shocked and saddened to hear of the loss of Russ. My prayers and sympathy go out to his family. I have known him for many years and will always remember him as a kind and gentle man. He will be deeply missed.
"Rest in peace, Russ"
Sincerely,

Mary Krajnik

July 18, 2013

Sorry to hear about your loss Russ sold me advertising for the radio station and we used to have a lot of laughs. He was a lot of fun to be around. He will be greatly missed,
Bob Krause

July 18, 2013

Russ - no greater memories could a person have of our years in high school. Between the Plaza, the Dome, Grand Bend, Ontario and getting busted on Main Street, Port Huron, Michigan, what a great time we had! Recent face book time (especially when you were reminded WHERE the CUP was at!) was great. You will be greatly missed, my BEST friend. No person could ever want a better friend than you were. Great sorrow goes out to your family from my family. Have a great reunion with the classmates who have gone before us. It's not thunder, its the roar of your laughter. Rest in peace, Rusty (Mountain) - Charley (Gooner) Collard

Charley Collard

July 17, 2013

I will miss you Russ but I know I will see you again!!! Have fun at Studio 8 with my Mom....I am sure she met you at Heavens Gates!! Love you!!!

Denise Herman

July 17, 2013

Sorry to hear about your loss. Lots of good memories of Russ from my years in TR.

Howard Messerman

July 17, 2013

I bought his home in 1981 on Michigan Ave, Manitowoc. It was a beautiful Stucco home, finished basement, & we loved it. I remember Russ, dark haired then.."

nancy kriescher

July 17, 2013

Love You Bub!!! I will miss our Texas hold em tournys, pool vball matches and most of all our Sports chats! Love you more then words can express and was very happy to have been able to see you last week.

Love Bubba

David Thomas

July 17, 2013

My thoughts and prayers to the Matar family. Russ did touch the lives of many, moments with him were great moments. He did love and enjoy each moment. May you all find peace by remembering all your moments with Russ. He will be missed by so many.

Christine Kornely

July 17, 2013

Stef & Jackie, Our deepest sympathy goes out to you. We have fond memories of your dad, lots of good times we will cherish. John & Barb Otis

July 17, 2013

We are so sorry for the loss of your dad. You know we are always here for you.

Steve & Sandy Narten

July 17, 2013

I am so sorry for the loss of this man. I was looking forward to seeing him at our class reuinon. He will be with us from heaven. Nancy Molinaro Guilds

July 17, 2013

I can't find words to even come close to tell you how truly sorry I am for your loss....I have known Russ "almost" 40 years....to say he will be miss is an understatement .....Russ, you rest easy now in God's loving arms...your home....

Angel Avina

July 17, 2013

Jaclyn, Ken & I want to express our sincere sympathy to you and your entire family. We wish you all peace in the knowledge that your father is still with you and will continue to be forever.

Ken & LInda Blahnik

July 17, 2013

Russ was a great guy with a big heart. His service to the community was outstanding and a role model for everyone. My thoughts and prayers are with the family in their time of sorrow.

KELLY SCHLEIS

July 17, 2013

I am so sorry for your loss. Russ made friends every where he went. He was kind and generous to everyone. He will be greatly missed. I will miss hearing his voice on the radio and seeing him at the Fish Derby and Ethnic Fest. My heart goes out to the Matar family. May God bless you all.

Jim and Kathy Koch

July 17, 2013

He was always a pleasure to be around very cheerful and happy, he will be missed.

Rae Monka

July 17, 2013

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