Gerald Robert "Jerry" Matthys

Gerald "Jerry" Robert Matthys, 87, of South Bend, passed away peacefully at home on May 24, 2025.
Born on February 19, 1938, in South Bend, Jerry was the son of Maurice and Margaret Matthys, who both preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his beloved son, Mark Matthys; his sister, Doris Mitchell; and his brother, Ronald Matthys.
On September 1, 1978 Jerry married Janet K. Labis, and together they shared over 46 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and hard work. Jan survives him, along with his children: Pamela Lewis (Dave Beard) of South Bend, Kimberlyn Thompson (Barry Buckland) of Warren, IN, Kristen Pierce (Mike) of Elkhart, IN, and his stepson, Brian Gall (Kristin) of South Bend. He was a proud Grandpa to Justin Kaser, Jessica Matthys, Adam Patti, Lacey Perkins, David Patti, and Brandon (Becca) Galvan; Step Grandpa to Corbin and MacKenzie Gall; Great Grandpa to ten and great-great Grandpa to two.
Jerry grew up on the family farm and attended Greene Township High School. From a young age, he worked alongside his Dad and brother at Maurice Matthys Farms, later branching out to run his own successful operation, J & J Matthys Farms, with Jan by his side. They raised corn, soybeans, and mint until Jerry's retirement in 2005.
Although farming was his life's work, Jerry's true passion was driving a semi. He got his start hauling to Chicago after farming hours, delivering potatoes and onions to places like Campbell's and Certified Potato. Over the years he hauled corn for his own farm and later for his cousin, Randy Matthys (Shady Lane Farm). He simply loved being behind the wheel. Even into his 80's Jerry could be found doing what he loved until finally deciding at 81 that it was time to slow down and enjoy retirement fully.
While still farming, Jerry loved to drag the family out on Sunday drives through the countryside to check out the crops – often detouring through the John Deere dealership parking lots to admire the latest tractors. These rides often ended with a trip to Dairy Queen so the kids in the backseat wouldn't be too upset.
Retirement really didn't slow Jerry down for long. At a Father's Day cookout, his daughter invited him to join her at the gym and to everyone's surprise- including his own-Jerry became a regular, working out two to three times a week for over 5 years.
He also enjoyed the little things in life, such as meeting his cousins, Bud Matthys and Aug Van Wanzeele at The Diner in New Carlisle or for lunch at Crumstown Tavern. He looked forward to every new edition of the Farmer's Exchange so that he could find the best sales and auctions for those same cousins to accompany him to.
Jerry and Jan had a lot of fun over the years snowmobiling in their younger years, vacations to Florida, trips in their RV or 5th wheel, NASCAR Races, and plenty of pool parties in their backyard with family and friends. Later in life, Jerry was happiest tinkering in his garage, lending a hand to whoever needed one, and spending warm evenings out on the patio where their neighbors would gather for a cocktail and conversation. No matter what life threw his way--even in the recent months as he battled health issues-he kept his sense of humor and treasured time with his daughters, stepson and grandchildren sharing stories and laughter.
Jerry was a wonderful husband, a proud and loving Dad and Grandpa, and a friend to many. His steady presence, generous heart and quiet wisdom left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him and he will be deeply missed.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Heartland Hospice and to Jerry's caregivers, Heather and Bethany, for the compassion and care they provided.
A visitation will be held at Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Drive, South Bend, IN on Saturday, May 31st, 2025 from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm with a short service immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to St. Joseph County Fairgrounds at 5117 South Ironwood Road, South Bend 46614 or Riley's Hospital for Children in Indianapolis.
To send online condolences, please visit www.kaniewski.com.
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