Edward J. Mateja

EDWARD J. MATEJA, affectionately known as "Dziadziu" by family and friends, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at St. Joseph Villa of Flourtown, with his loving daughters by his side. A resident of Norristown, Ed was born in West Conshohocken on December 18, 1933. He was the son of the late John and Catherine (Flak) Mateja and was the youngest of ten siblings. He was also the devoted husband of the late Charlotte (Kulpa) Mateja, with whom he shared 63 years of marriage. Their relationship was a beautiful example of lifelong commitment.

Ed was a proud U.S. Army veteran of the Korean Conflict, serving as a Specialist Third Class (Sp-3) with Company D, 8th Cavalry Regiment, as a Light Vehicle Driver. His military service was honored with the National Defense Service Medal and the Motor Vehicle Driver's Badge with Bar, awarded through Special Orders 167 from Headquarters, 8th Cavalry Regiment.

He was employed by St. Francis of Assisi Church for 23 years until his retirement in 1998. Family and tradition were the foundation to Ed's life. He was a constant, nurturing influence in the lives of his four granddaughters, cheering them on from the sidelines of sporting events and applauding them in school plays and recitals. Always with his video camera in hand, he faithfully recorded the moments that meant so much to him and cherished watching them.

In his later years, Ed embraced the role of great-grandfather with pride and joy. He supported his great-grandchildren in everything they did, attending their events and celebrating their accomplishments. They brought him immense happiness and were truly the light of his life.

Ed had a lifelong love for sports and was devoted to all Philadelphia teams, especially the Phillies. There wasn't a game he missed on TV or radio. You could often find him quietly cheering along.

He is survived by his devoted daughters, Judith (Michael) Vivian and Lisa (Stephen) Splendido; grandchildren, Kristen (Brett) Ruina, Melissa (Richard) Robbins, Charlotte Splendido, and Samantha Splendido; and great-grandchildren, Matthew Ruina, Ryan Robbins, Luke Ruina, and Reese Robbins. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will remember him fondly.

Ed's legacy will continue on through the love and passion of his daughters, carrying forward the values of family, tradition, and joy that defined his life.

Relatives and friends may call on Friday, August 8, from 9:30 to 10:15 A.M. at St. Joseph Villa 110 W. Wissahickon Ave. Flourtown, Pa. 19013. Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 A.M. Interment with Military Honors will be in Calvary Cemetery, West Conshohocken.

The family requests memorial contributions be made to St. Joseph Villa in Memory of Edward J. Mateja. https://stjosephvilla.org/

Arrangements are by The Bernard S. Gutkowski Funeral Home, Swedesburg, 610-275-6385, Keith J. Murphy, F.D., www.gutkowskifunerals.com