Melvin Matucha

Melvin Lee Matucha was born to Frank and Mildred Matucha on November 19, 1941 in Gregory, SD. Growing up in the Burke community; Melvin attended the Burke School District through graduation. He then went to college at Springfield for Auto Body Repair. Melvin enlisted in the Army in 1964 receiving commendations for being a sharpshooter and marksman and received a medal of good conduct. Upon discharge from the Army Melvin moved to Pennsylvania working the oil fields and later returning to Gregory. On October 3, 1970 Melvin married Kathleen Schmidt and to this union two sons were born—Lee Wade and Jesse Jay. Melvin also had two daughters of Kathy's he called his girls, Lorie and Glorie (Sissy). Melvin was taught to dance by Caroline Vedral and he and Kathy went to local dances. He loved to waltz and polka. Melvin enjoyed carpentry and woodworking. He built cabinets and remodeled in many homes including his own and Sissy's. His craftsmanship was taught to his boys as well. He spent many years helping his Uncle Ed with fieldwork north of Gregory. In recent years Melvin worked for Klein's House Moving. Fishing was where Melvin relaxed and had a good time with his family and friends. He spent many overnight fishing trips at Bull Creek and Landing Creek with his wife and family. Up all night waiting for those bells to ring for that great catch. Melvin had many great meals and family times at Sissy's home in Gregory and Lorie's in Mitchell. The past four years of Melvin's life he and Kathy spent time in Rapid City for chemo treatments. His sister, Joyce, graciously opened her home to them during this time. His brother, Dennis, and Barb's sister, Jean and husband Al, would go out to encourage and spend time with Melvin. He made friends with the compassionate doctors, nurses, and staff at Rapid City Regional Cancer Center. Some of Melvin's pastimes were riding in the wagon trains with LeRoy, mowing in the Dallas community, helping at the social center, coffee time at Frank's, and attending Czech Days in Tabor. Melvin was a member of the Methodist Church. He was also a member of the Dallas American Legion and marched in many parades. With his family by his side, Melvin passed away at his home in Dallas, SD on July 21, 2014 at the age of 72. Melvin is survived by his wife, Kathy; sons Lee and Jesse; daughters Lorie (John) and Glorie (Glenn); grandchildren Michael (Sarah), Rose (Nate), Paige (Bryan), Ryan, Zac, Thomas, Keva, and Dustin; and great grandchildren Tristin, Treydon, Ofelia, and Trenton; mother-in-law Vlesta; brother Dennis (Barb); sisters Carol, Joyce, Jean (Al), and Donna; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents and his father-in-law Fred Schmidt. * * * * * * * * * * * * * A prayer service for Melvin Matucha was held Thursday evening July 24, 2014 at Kotrba-Smith Funeral Home in Gregory, SD. A Celebration of Life was held Friday, July 25, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. at Buryanek's Recreation Area on the Missouri River with Pastor Royal Archer officiating. Music was provided by Dean Soukup "The End of My Journey" and Lorie Raschke, Rose Massa, and Dean Soukup "Amazing Grace" and "The Old Rugged Cross." Inurnment will be at a later date. * * * * * * * * * * * * Grandpa's Poem It may not be easy to put them aside, The feelings of bitterness and sadness inside. We mustn't look past what's in store for him now, He's been released from his body, Now he's danced in the clouds. The creations he's left Hold memories of the years, Every beautiful masterpiece The ones we hold dear. This man was a fighter, loving, strong and clever These traits we'll remember both now and forever. We can see time spent in his weathered face and hands This past year he's endured more than the average man. So, know of his essence, that it is a lasting one. See him in the trees, the water, and the power of the Sun. There is no place he would rather be, Than in your hearts and souls Only the best memories. See him in the stars, bright above you at night Feel him in the air as it surrounds you, And as it holds you tight. Know he deserves to be joyed and pain free Fishing with angels, Close your eyes and you'll see. He is now a soldier of the skies up above, Watching over each of us All the ones that he loves. Remember his smile A true man of few words And every word spoken Worth while Unchanged by this world. Envision the gates In a sky of deep blue He blows a kiss goodbye and enters "Cool - Mon - Dew" written by granddaughter Paige