Matthew James HAAS Sr.

HAAS Matthew James, Sr. Matthew James Haas, Sr., 58, of Sandusky, passed away unexpectedly early Saturday afternoon, January 8, 2011, at Firelands Regional Medical Center, Main Campus, Sandusky. Matthew was born in Sandusky, June 21, 1952. When he was 17 years old, he met his love of his life, Susan. Matthew graduated from St. Mary's High School in 1970 and joined the U.S. Army. Upon his return, he and Susan were married on December 2, 1972. He began working at New Departure-Hyatt (Division of General Motors), where he later retired as a Journeyman Tool and Die Maker. Matthew enjoyed hunting, woodworking, card playing and his family. He cared for his wife, children, mother, sister, brothers and mother-in-law stretching himself to be sure that no one was in need of anything. Along his path he made many good friends and even performed on stage when he could be coaxed into it. His love of West Virginia and his cabin there were unparalleled. Matthew was a self-taught man in many of the projects he successfully completed. For those that needed more than a book to tackle, he enrolled in classes. Always placing a high value on continuing education to his children and grandchildren. He loved to share his interests and knowledge with his family and pass on wisdom to the next generation. Matthew Haas was truly a great man. He was driven, selfless, and his heart had no boundaries, and dedication to his work is reflected in the quality of his craftsmanship of all his projects he leaves behind. He was a true outdoorsman, enjoyed hunting, and visits to his cabin, his passion for the environment is reflected in his conservation efforts both in recycling and his membership in the Four County Conservation League and Ducks Unlimited. He was generous and inspired, an effortless teacher, played a vital role in his family. Matthew was a devoted father and deeply loved his wife, children and grandchildren, family and the family of man. He will be missed more than words can say. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Susan; daughters, Amy (Hollis) Burris and Alison (Timothy) Thompson; son, Matthew James Haas II; brothers, Curtis (Judy) Haas of Sterling, VA, Raymond (Janet) Haas of High Bridge, NJ, Frederick (Mary) Haas; sisters, Nancy Haas, Rita Haas of Rockland ME, Kathleen Canterbury, Yasha (Kirk) Arant of Sterlin, VA and Janet (Gene) Lyons; grandchildren, Caleb Matthew and Isaac Hitchcock, Hollis Wayne Burris III, Daliah, Willow and Clary Sage Thompson; his "favorite" mother-in-law, Marlene Pocock; and many special nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins and dear friends; sister-in-laws, Judi and Nova Haas. Matthew was preceded in death by his father, Frederick Haas, Sr.; mother, Janet (Curtis) Haas; brothers, William Haas, David Haas and Timothy in infancy; great niece, Simone Haas. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 12, 2011, from 2-4 and 7-9 pm at the David F. Koch Funeral Home, 520 Columbus Avenue, Sandusky. Funeral services will be held Thursday morning, January 13, 2011, at 11 am at the funeral home. Fr. David Nuss officiating. Following the services, at his request, cremation will take place. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions may be made to Stein Hospice Service, Inc., 1200 Sycamore Line, Sandusky, OH 44870. Your memories and words of comfort may be expressed to the Haas family at koch@yahoo.com