Michael Emmanuel Matsakis

Michael Emmanuel Matsakis, 90, of Shadyside, Ohio passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, July 26, 2023.
He was born on December 6, 1932 in Wheeling, West Virginia, to the late Vangela and Emmanuel Matsakis.
As a veteran of the Korean War, Michael selflessly served his country with honor and bravery. His love for his ancestral homeland was evident, as his family originated from Karpathos, Greece. He was Greek Orthodox by faith and was a member of the Greek Orthodox Church of the Life-Giving Fountain, where he had served as President and a proud member of the AHEPA.
Michael achieved academic excellence, earning a Master's Degree from the University of Virginia and a Bachelor's Degree from West Liberty State College. His commitment to lifelong learning was evident in his dedication to his students and athletes.
Throughout his career, Michael served as the head football coach at Powhatan and assistant head coach at Shadyside and River High Schools. He also took on the role of Athletic Director at Shadyside High School, leaving an indelible mark on the sports programs. Michael's passion for education extended beyond the field, as he taught Biology, served as a Guidance Counselor, and taught Driver's Education. He was also a proud member of the West Liberty Hall of Fame, recognizing his outstanding achievements.
In addition to his parents, Michael was preceded in death by his sister, Sophie Makris.
He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Matsakis; his four sons, Emmanuel "Manny" (Elizabeth) Matsakis, James (Erin) Matsakis, George (Heidi) Matsakis, Elias (Cori) Matsakis; former daughter-in-laws, Darla Matsakis and Meg Hanshaw; thirteen grandchildren, Meredith, Michael Emmanuel, Elias Emmanuel, Maria, Michael James, Stella, Emmanuel James, Lexie, Michael Elias, Nicholas Elias, Maia, Jack Morgese, Luke Morgese; and a niece, Angela Makris Eliades.
Family and Friends will be received on Friday, July 28, 2023 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Bauknecht-Altmeyer Funeral Homes and Crematory, 3900 Central Avenue, Shadyside, Ohio 43947. The service will be held on Saturday, July 29, 2023 at 11:00am at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Life-Giving Fountain, 315 North 5th Street Martins Ferry, Ohio 43935, with Father Constantine Makrinos officiating. Interment will follow at the Powhatan Cemetery. Following the Interment, the family will have a celebration of life at the American Legion in Shadyside, Ohio.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Greek Orthodox Church of the Life-Giving Fountain at TMCFunding.com
Arrangements entrusted to Bauknecht-Altmeyer Funeral Homes and Crematory, 3900 Central Avenue, Shadyside, Ohio 43947.