Robert Matelski

Robert Joseph Matelski of Wausau, passed away on February 8, 2026 at home.

Bob touched many lives with his unceasing generosity and peaceful view of life. He felt very secure with the many neighbors with whom he played BINGO and watched sports on the Big Screen. They watched out for him when he would venture out for "a smoke", lottery tickets, or the occasional burger and fries. His favorite past time was sports, both college and professional. Bob always wanted to get back to White Lake, his home town, to fish and pick wild blackberries. Over the years Bob had written an assortment of poems, some of which had been set to music.

The Lord smiled on Bob when Paula became his caretaker 2 years ago. She "turned my apartment into a home" and kept Bob and his cat, Smokey, on the straight and narrow. Above all, her dedication fulfilled Bob's final wish to die at home.

He had many cousins and was a uncle and great uncle to many loved nieces and nephews. And 'best grandpa I've ever had' to Taija Blu who he saw grow up from baby to college. She remembers him as "one of the greatest people I've ever met". Bob loved talking about all of her accomplishments.

He was preceded on in death by parents, Isabelle (Day) and Peter Matelski; a sister Patricia Pride; and brothers, Donald and James.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date at Our Savior Catholic Church in Mosinee where Bob was a member.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the Salvation Army where Bob had been a holiday bell ringer for 20 years.