George Kelly Matter Jr.
George Kelly Matter Jr.
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George Matter Obituary
Born on April 11, 1932, in West Palm Beach to George Kelly Matter Sr. and Emily Annie Matter (Bustani), George was a lifelong resident of the community he cherished. His life was defined by hard work, kindness, and an unwavering dedication to both his family, friends, and his profession.
George attended St. Ann Catholic School and later graduated from Florida State University. He and his brother John went on to become the proud owners of MATTER & COMPANY, where he built a reputation for service, integrity and commitment. In his later years, he continued working with Cheney Brothers, remaining active and engaged in his work until the very end - a true testament to his strong work ethic and love of staying involved.
Beyond his career, George found his greatest joy on the water. He loved boating, fishing, and enjoying a cold refreshment under the Florida sun. He was an active and dedicated member of the Flotilla Club, where he formed many lasting friendships. Those who knew George will fondly remember his quick wit, his love of trivia, and the way he delighted in challenging friends with a clever question or fact.
George is survived by his three children; Kari Rivera, George Kelly Matter III (Debbie); and Kristy Hockman (Stan). He also leaves behind seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense pride and joy.
He was loved by all who knew him and will be deeply missed. His legacy of hard work, humor, and kindness will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, and in the community he called home for his entire 93 years.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
michael wilber
February 19, 2026
I remember how great Uncle George was to work for when I came down to Florida for 6 weeks as a teen. He was a good guy. W/Love Mike and Anne
Melanie Hoehn
February 19, 2026
George touched a lot of people. He'll be sorely missed. RIP George
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Philip Lorenz
February 18, 2026
Sad to hear of his passing...I met George as the Chef of the old Crab Pot restaurant under the Blue Heron Bridge back in the early 1990s.
I would call in the daily produce orders every morning and he and I would always have a nice conversation to start the day. He was gracious, great sense of humor, and just a wonderful human being!
I remember one day that he stopped by the restaurant and check in with us; I mentioned to him that I was going on vacation with my wife to North Carolina. He immediately mentioned he had a cabin in the mountains not far from Murphy. George invited us to stay at his place up there for the week. He even got a piece of paper and wrote down the directions. (Pre Google maps days!)
I saw him several years ago at the South Florida fair. He was working with someone from Cheney Bros. and I was amazed he was still working pushing 80 yrs.
Such a Generous person.
He would always bring gifts around the Holidays.
He holds a very special place in my heart!
Thanks for the memories George!
Louis Bavuso
February 17, 2026
My condolences to the family for the passing of a good man. I truly admired him for his love of his work and the people he worked with, respectful to everyone. He will be missed to all of us that knew him.
Janice Roedel
February 16, 2026
Kari & family,
So sorry to hear of George´s passing. He was always very friendly & kind to me. You & your family will be in my prayers.
Linda Martyka
February 16, 2026
My deepest condolences to George's family. He was a wonderful man.
Rest In Peace George.
C. Joyce
February 13, 2026
Condolences to friends and family . Awesome gentleman, you will be missed
RAY DAVIS
February 13, 2026
RIP
Tim Wright
February 13, 2026
Always a gentleman.I remember sitting at the Flotilla bar and talking about all of the changes that have come to pass in our beloved W. Palm Beach.Just an all around pleasant man.I and my wife will greatly miss him.Rest in peace my friend.
Duane MacPhail
February 13, 2026
George always had kind words for the Canadians!
Will be sorely missed.
Duane MacPhail
chris west
February 13, 2026
Condolences to the Matter family and to friends of George. George was an unbelievable person, an entrepreneur, a family man, a businessman, a worker.
Georgie blessed many with his kindness, his wisdom, his sense of humor, his generosity, his care for others. It is these traits that will ensure his flame lasts for an eternity.
Love Judy, Chris, Karen and Phil West, St. Marys ON, Canada
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5608 Broadway Ave., West Palm Beach, FL 33407
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