John J. Matijevic Jr.

1943 - 2025

John J. "Big John" Matijevic Jr., 82, of Grapeville, died Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025, in Independence Westmoreland Hospital, Greensburg. He was born Sept. 24, 1943, in Jeannette, a son of the late John J. Sr. and Catherine (Kottelich) Matijevic. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Charlene (Rogan) Matijevic; brother, Paul Matijevic; and his grandmothers, Barbara Kottelich and Anna Matijevic. Prior to retirement, John worked at Volkswagen, Westmoreland and Jeannette Glass, Montgomery Ward, and Omnova. He was a member of the Grapeville Volunteer Fire Department for 52 years, as well as Jeannette EMS and the Auxiliary Police. Big John was a hard worker whose main focus was taking care of his family. Surviving are his sons, John W. "Butch" Matijevic (Krista) of Jeannette, Joe A. Matijevic of Grapeville, and Jason M. Matijevic (Kelly) of Greensburg; sister, Patricia Matijevic of Virginia; grandchildren, Eric (Stacy), J.J. (Taylor), Jenna (Logan), Nathanael (Hannah), Noah (Brielle), Micha, Isabella (Jackson), and Sydney; great-grandchildren, Natalia, Brooklyn, Paisley, Tatum, and Miles; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. Visitation will be held from noon to 2 and 4 p.m. until the time of service at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 9, in MASON-GELDER FUNERAL HOME INC., 201 N. First St., Jeannette. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to St. Jude’s. To send online condolences, visit www.mason-gelder.com.