Karl W. Mattis

HALIFAX - Karl W. Mattis, Sr., 91 of Halifax, PA passed away peacefully at home on April 29, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was born on November 6, 1932, in Elizabethville, PA to the late Paul S and Geraldine A. Mattis.
Karl enjoyed hunting, (was a founding member of Camp Swamp Hole in Loyalton, PA), playing euchre with his family and friends, fishing, boating, RVing, timbering, outdoor life, and crafting with his wife. Karl was also a lifetime member of the VFW and American Legion posts.
He graduated from Elizabethville High School in 1950.
In 1951, he joined the US Navy. He served from 1951 to 1954 during the Korean conflict and served on the USS Wisconsin. Upon returning from service, he married his true love, Rose Marie Dunleavy, also from Elizabethville on April 23, 1955, in Lykens, PA. Their union marked the beginning of a beautiful love story that lasted 65 years. They settled in Berwyn Heights, Maryland where they raised their six children.
In 1959, Karl joined the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia (MPD). During his time as a police officer, he served with dignity and was admired by all those who worked for him and with him. He was a true leader of men. Upon completion of the now famous Washington D.C. "Operation Sting", he and his team were honored with many commendations, thanks, and accolades, including one from President Gerald Ford. He completed an impressive 17-year career and retired as a Sergeant in 1977.
Karl's legacy is best remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him as a man of unwavering devotion to God, his family, and his country.
Karl is survived by four children: Karleen Jaffres (Loic) of Halifax, PA, Karl Mattis Jr. (Jeanne) of Severna Park, MD, Patrick Mattis Sr. (Michele) of Halifax, PA, Kelly Yarrish (Steve) of Elkridge, MD, his thirteen grandchildren, eighteen great grandchildren, and his sister, Sally Searfass of Rife, PA, and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased in death by his beloved wife, Rose Marie Mattis, son, Steven R Mattis, daughter, Tammy E Tambourine, brothers Lt. Robert E. Mattis and John L Mattis
Karl and Rose Marie will rest together at the Maple Grove Cemetery in Elizabethville, Pennsylvania.
There will be a public visitation at the Hoover-Boyer Funeral Home, Ltd., Elizabethville on Sunday, May 5, 2024 from 6:00-8:00 PM and again on Monday, May 6, 2024 from 11:00 AM -12:15 PM. There will be a Mass of Christian Burial held at Our Lady Help of Christians Church, Lykens on Monday, May 6th beginning at 1:00 PM. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery, Elizabethville. A period of fellowship will be held following the graveside at Armstong Valley Winery, Rutter Road, Halifax.
The family requests that memorial donations may be made to Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 202 Zimmerman Road, Millersburg, PA 17061
Arrangements are being cared for by the staff of Minnich Funeral. We are honored to serve this family at our Hoover-Boyer Funeral Home, Ltd., Elizabethville location. To sign the guestbook go to www.minnichfuneral.com.