Joseph G. Matus

Joseph G. Matus

Age 82, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 21, 2024, at the age of 82. He was born on March 3, 1942, in Cortland, NY. Joe’s parents (Gilbert Matus and Margaret Eagan) were also from Cortland. Joe grew up with a deep appreciation for history, nature, and family. 

Joe graduated from St. Mary’s high school in Cortland and then attended SUNY Cortland where he received his BA in History. Shortly after graduation he married Nancy Halpin. Joe and Nancy enjoyed 38 years of marriage while raising their three children: Jean Matus Vlacich (Ed), Wendy Matus, and Joseph R. Matus (Annie). Joe was predeceased by his first wife, Nancy Halpin-Matus who passed on October 7th 2004. He later married Kathleen Quinn, and together they shared a life filled with love and adventure. He is also survived by his stepdaughter, Meaghan Krazinski (Brandon), and his beloved grandchildren: Jake, Hope (Nick Franzese), Noah, and Ella and step-grandchild Sam Siver (Matt) and step-great- grandchildren Hudson and Delaney. 

Joe’s professional career spanned over three decades, beginning with General Dynamics and later at Xerox Corporation, where he worked as a financial manager. After 34 years with Xerox, he retired at the age of 60, dedicating his time to his family and various passions. In retirement, Joe generously served on the boards of Sonnenburg Gardens and Granger Homestead, contributing to his community in meaningful ways. 

A man of great wit and humor, Joe had a unique way of lighting up any room he entered. When asked about his health, he would often joke with medical staff, “Are you over 21? I only give out my information to people over 21!” 

Joe’s passions were many and varied, from history and real estate to financial investing and woodworking. He loved gardening and was an avid boater, skier, and wine enthusiast. He also practiced yoga for much of his adult life. One of his greatest joys was living on a lake, where he spent countless hours boating and enjoying the serenity of nature. 

Joe's heart belonged to the woods, where he found peace and fulfillment on his cabin property. He spent long hours growing shiitake and lions mane mushrooms, riding his tractor, tilling the fields to feed the deer. When he harvested a deer, he took a moment to give thanks for the bounty. His appreciation and respect for nature was evident in his having moccasins and gloves made from deer hide, which he lovingly gifted to family and friends. 

He will be missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

A private ceremony will be held in the spring for family members to honor Joe's life. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association, a cause Joe was passionate about supporting.

Flowers are gratefully declined.