John J. Matusek Sr.

John J. Matusek Sr., 104, of Shickshinny, formerly of Mocanaqua, went to his heavenly home Sunday, Oct. 8, 2023, in the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Plains Twp., surrounded by his loving family.

Born May 7, 1919, in Mocanaqua, he was the son of the late Joseph and Kathryn Spernoga Matusek.

Though born in Mocanaqua, John and his siblings spent their early years in Slovakia while their father worked tirelessly to establish a grocery store and the family's livelihood in Mocanaqua. John returned to the U.S. as a young child, worked in the family business and later graduated from Shickshinny High School in 1937.

John enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1942 and proudly served as a staff sergeant in the Pacific Theater, New Guinea Campaign, during World War II. He received the World War II Victory medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign medal, Good Conduct medal and the Bronze Service Star before being honorably discharged in 1946. John always said, "We should have honor, respect and dignity for this greatest country on Earth," which he loved dearly.

He married the love of his life, Angeline Geraci, on June 27, 1953. They were blessed with 50 years of marriage before her unexpected passing in 2004.

The Matusek family owned and operated Matusek's Market in Mocanaqua, where John graciously served the community for 80 years before retiring at age 85. He loved working beside his siblings and establishing lifelong friendships with his customers.

In addition to working for the family business, Mr. Matusek served on the board of directors for the former First National Bank of Mocanaqua for many years and was a committee man for the Luzerne County Board of Elections.

Mr. Matusek was a faithful congregate of Holy Spirit Parish, formerly Ascension Church, Mocanaqua, where he was an usher and belonged to the Holy Name Society. He was a devout Catholic and though recently unable to attend Mass, he faithfully viewed at home. He was often found praying the rosary in his recliner.

He was also a member of the Shickshinny American Legion Post 495, where he served with the honor guard and previously acted as chaplain. John was active with the Mocanaqua VFW, the Mocanaqua Volunteer Fire Company, the Knights of Columbus, Mocanaqua Falcon's Club and dutifully served the Twin Cities Lions Club for over 70 years. John held numerous offices in these various civic organizations.

In addition to his wife, Angeline, he was preceded in death by his son, John J. Matusek Jr.; five sisters, Elizabeth Matusek, Catherine Matusek, Mary Matusek, Irene Matusek, Ann Mitros; and two brothers, Joseph Matusek and Frank Matusek.

John is survived by his daughter, Jane Rutkoski; daughter-in-law, Alida Matusek; four grandchildren, John J. Matusek III (Christine); Corey Rutkoski (Jessica); Karmen Brown; and Kayla Worthington (Brittany); four great-grandchildren, John J. Matusek IV; Thea Matusek; Carson Rutkoski; and Jamison Rutkoski; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to provide special recognition to his niece, Mary Beth Elliott, who has selflessly cared for him and assisted with his medical appointments over the years.

When meeting John, he would always greet you with a warm welcome and a smile. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, especially his great-grandchildren who lovingly referred to him as "pop-pop."

A visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at Mayo Funeral Home Inc., 77 N. Main St., Shickshinny. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday in Holy Spirit Parish, 150 Main St., Mocanaqua, with the Rev. Louis Kaminski, his pastor, officiating as celebrant. Interment will be in The Ascension Cemetary, Mocanaqua.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Shickshinny American Legion Post 495, 575 State Route 239, Shickshinny, PA 18655.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mayo Funeral Home Inc., Berwick.

Family and friends may send condolences at www.mayofh.com.