Obituary of Philomena Catherine Matz

Philomena Matz, Phil to her family and friends, passed away Monday Oct 13, 2008 at the age of 92. Phil was preceded in death by her husband of sixty-six years, Matt Matz, her daughter Luella Matz-Gellenbeck and eight siblings. Matt and Phil were both born and raised in Morton County, North Dakota. They did not meet until they had both located in Tacoma as young adults. They met on a blind date and married on May 22, 1939 at Visitation Church in South Tacoma, where they also celebrated their 50th and 60th wedding anniversaries. Phil was an amazing cook. Dinners at Grandma's house were always an event, where you could count on two or three homemade deserts and a doggie bag to go. Whether you stopped by for lunch, a snack or even breakfast (after a late night out), the door was always open to family and friends. Phil was an avid gardener who grew most of her own vegetables and was always canning something. Matt and Phil also loved to dance, especially the polka. They loved to travel, frequently to Reno, where Phil always wore her lucky green shirt. Phil was a two time breast cancer survivor. She faced the battle with dignity and courage, never complaining following surgeries or during treatment. She looked forward to office visits with her doctors, who often received homemade pies or other goodies. Phil is survived by her son, David Matz ( Marilyn), her grandchildren, Karie Gordon (Pete), Ed Gellenbeck, Darin Matz (Michelle), Ann Gellenbeck-Stevens (Marty Stevens), Jason Matz, Samantha Matz and five great grandchildren. A viewing will be held at Piper Morley Mellinger (253-472-3353) Oct. 16th from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM .On Friday, Oct. 17th the Rosary will be recited at 12:30 with the Funeral Mass at 1:00 PM at Visitation Catholic Church.