Madison - James Joseph Matinas, age 71 of Madison WI passed away on September 17th, 2025, at UW Hospital in Madison WI. He was born on October 8th, 1953, in Trenton, New Jersey. James attended school at Morrisville High School and was very active in Sports and extracurricular activities. He was an avid swimmer and spent his free time working at his local community Pool as a lifeguard. James joined the US Navy in September of 1971 and was stationed on the USS Neosho (A0-143) He served Four years before being Honorably discharged in September of 1975. James is survived by his wife Debra Ann, Brother Ken Matinas (Lilo) Sister Kathy Matinas and daughter Dawn Cambell along with his stepdaughter's Danielle Burik-Collier (Keith) and Lindsey Schollmeyer and grandchildren Trevon, Corrina, Danny Ray, Spencer, Austin, and Mason, and three great grand daughters, Guinevere, Felicity, and Meilani, all who love him dearly. James was proceeded in death by his Grandfather Joseph, Grandmother Helen, Father Joseph Matinas, Mother Nona Matinas and Sister Jeanette Matinas. James was known for his uplifting personality and being there for his family and friends. James loved watching sports especially his Philadelphia Eagles who he had the pleasure of watching win a Super Bowl last year. He enjoyed his Rock and Roll music and spending time with his grandkids. James was the true example of a family man, friend and co-worker, he will be missed by many.
Funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday October 4, 2025, at Cress Funeral Home, 1310 Emerald Terrace, Sun Prairie WI. Military Honors will immediately follow the funeral service. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until the service at the funeral home on Saturday.
For those not able to attend in person, please register at the following link to view a copy of James service:
https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=e7e98bcd-3faa-444f-b926-79ac03f09af7
Cress Funeral & Cremation Service
1310 Emerald Terrace, Sun Prairie
(608) 837-9054
Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.


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