Gladys Matzen

Gladys J. Matzen Gladys J. Matzen died peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on March 23, 2006. Gladys was born to Jenny and Gabriel Andersen on January 28, 1923 in Tacoma, Washington. She had one brother, Lloyd, and sister, Alice (Doane) Blair. She went through the Fife school system, graduating from Fife High School in 1941. While attending Pacific Lutheran College (PLU), she met her future husband John. They were married on January 9, 1943 and enjoyed 63 years of marriage. The love that Gladys and John shared is an inspiration to those who knew them. Raising her family gave Gladys much joy and fulfillment. She was the caring mother of Judy (Ron) Martsh of Tacoma, John F. (Vicki) of Oak Harbor, WA and Steve (Kim) of Bothell, WA. Gladys was the proud, much-loved Grandma of Becki (Jerrod) Fleury, Sarah, Drew, Chris and Aaron. Gladys was active in Girl Scouts and Hospital Guild. She also attended numerous athletic events of her sons and grandchildren. Gladys' abiding faith in her Lord was a guiding principle throughout her life. A life-long member of the Lutheran church, she taught Sunday school for many years. She was an active member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, serving on the altar guild for over forty years. She knew Jesus as her personal Savior; her life was a testimony to her unfailing faith. Gladys was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Barbara, her parents, and her brother, Lloyd Andersen. The family sincerely would like to thank Dr. Romney, Dr. Baker, the oncology unit at St. Joseph's Hospital, and Franciscan Hospice for their tender care. Gladys will be remembered for her gracious, kind spirit. She touched the lives of all she met. Viewing will be Thursday, March 30, 2006, 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Weeks' Dryer Mortuary. A graveside service will be Friday, March 31, 10:30 a.m. at New Tacoma Cemetery, University Place, WA, followed by a memorial service, 12:30 p.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Tacoma, WA. Memorials may be made to The Lutheran Hour or LCMS/World Relief. Please sign our guest book at www.dryermortuary.com .