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John “Jack” Mateja

May 9, 1940 - May 7, 2020

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A Celebration of Jack’s life will be planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Hospice of the Calumet Area or St. Thomas More School in his memory would be appreciated.

John “Jack” Mateja, 80 of Dyer, IN passed away on Thursday, May 7, 2020. He is survived by his wife and high school sweetheart of 58 years, Judy (nee Kalina); sons, Tom (Betty) and Tim (Michele) Mateja; daughter, Jill (Chris) Ferry; grandchildren, Chad, John, Dan, Morgan, Jacob and Megan; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael, parents, John and Mary Mateja, and sister, Elaine Wolfe.

Jack was a member of the 1952 Whiting Little League team that advanced to the World Series in Williamsport. At Clark High School he was a three-sport athlete prior to becoming a Purdue graduate. In Munster, Jack coached the renowned ‘A’ League Pirates. He never left the game, playing for Senior Softball teams out of Chicago, Indianapolis and Marco Island traveling the country with his wife. He enjoyed golf, bowling and was an avid gardener, but his favorite passion was watching his 6 grandchildren excel in their various sports. Jack was a diehard fan of Purdue, Cubs, Bulls and Bears teams with the highlight being the 2016 Cubs World Series Championship. He was a retiree of LTV Steel, US Army veteran, member of St. Thomas More Church, and Briar Ridge Country Club.

A Celebration of Jack’s life will be planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Hospice of the Calumet Area or St. Thomas More School in his memory would be appreciated. Jack will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and teammates.

Service

A Celebration of Jack’s life will be planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Hospice of the Calumet Area or St. Thomas More School in his memory would be appreciated.

John “Jack” Mateja, 80 of Dyer, IN passed away on Thursday, May 7, 2020. He is survived by his wife and high school sweetheart of 58 years, Judy (nee Kalina); sons, Tom (Betty) and Tim (Michele) Mateja; daughter, Jill (Chris) Ferry; grandchildren, Chad, John, Dan, Morgan, Jacob and Megan; many nieces and nephews. He wasContinue Reading

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Murph and Mary Ann Knapke left a message on June 8, 2020:
Judy - we just now learned of Jack's passing - we were so saddened to hear of it - Jack was a great guy - always a smile for everyone - he will be missed by all the players and wives of Marco Island Senior Softball - please know we are thinking of you and your family.
Jack Wisemiller left a message on May 22, 2020:
Judy, I was deeply saddened to learn of Jack's passing. I always considered you both to be among the best in our class. Although we have not seen each other in many years I still remember the warmth and friendliness of you both and want you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Jack
Marlene Briglio left a message on May 20, 2020:
I am so sorry that Jack passed away. It is ironic that these two Geezers softball players passed away within a few days of each other. Judy, you have my deepest sympathy.
Joan Scherer Haugh Beatty left a message on May 10, 2020:
First of all, condolences on the loss of your dear husband. He sounds like a great man! I am curious, however, if you are the Judy Kalina that worked at Standard Oil (or American Oil) between 1958 and 1960. I worked as steno in the light oils division and filtering oils division and left in 1960 because I was pregnant. I have always wondered what happened to you, and I hope you are the person I have been thinking about.
Brett Jennings left a message on May 10, 2020:
Please accept my deepest condolences to the Mateja Family.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Ed & Jo Salczynski left a message on May 10, 2020:
Our deepest condolences. Tom I still think I'm the only coach your Dad gave a T to.
Mary DeBoer left a message on May 9, 2020:
We are so very sorry for your loss. Our condolences to you and your family. Jim and Mary DeBoer
Tom Pugh left a message on May 8, 2020:
My team mate. My coach. My fellow Boilermaker. Great player and my friend. Tom Pugh
Mary Brennan left a message on May 8, 2020:
Jack was a gentle giant of a man.We were privileged to become friends with Jack and Judy during our winters in Marco.How proud he was of his family and beamed when talking about his grandchildren. Rest in peace,Jack.
John Coyne and Shelley Koltnow left a message on May 8, 2020:
Our condolences and sympathy to you in this time of loss and sadness. Jack was a friend and a teammate of John's, devoted to the game and to the wings at R Bar. We can't imagine not seeing him this season and beyond. We will deeply miss him.
John Coyne and Shelley Koltnow left a message on May 8, 2020:
Our condolences and sympathy to you in this time of loss and sadness. Jack was a friend and a teammate of John's, devoted to the game and to the wings at R Bar. We can't imagine not seeing him this season and beyond. We will deeply miss him.
Irene McLain left a message on May 8, 2020:
My sincere condolences to Judy and family on the loss of Jack. Jack was well liked by everyone who knew him and will be greatly missed.
Karen Fritz left a message on May 8, 2020:
Uncle Jack - You're family is a testament to the great guy that you are. I think that speaks for itself. I've always appreciated your kindness & sense of humor. The world is a better place with the mark that you have left. With Love.
Michele Mateja left a message on May 8, 2020:
The way you lived Jack, is how we all should live. You are home in our hearts, your legacy will live on in every ball that gets hit, and every fish reeled in. My favorite memory with you... dancing to the "Junk Yard Band". Love you. ~ "mic"
Kish Funeral Home left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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