Walter Joseph Matrana Sr., age 81, of Shreveport, Louisiana, passed away peacefully in his sleep after a lengthy illness on Friday, May 23, 2025. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana to Clara Welch Matrana and Nick Matrana, Walter lived a life defined by faith, humility, and an unwavering devotion to his family.
Walter dedicated 34 years of service to KCS Railroad, where his work ethic and commitment earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike. A man deeply rooted in his Catholic faith, he was honored with the Distinguished Catholic Leadership Award and was a longtime member of the Knights of Columbus, exemplifying a life of service and spiritual dedication.
Known affectionately as "Pawpaw," Walter was a simple, kind-hearted man who always put others before himself. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who spent the last three decades pouring his time, love, and energy into the lives of his family.
A loyal Saints and LSU fan, Walter cheered with the same passion he brought to his relationships. But his greatest joy was his wife of 61 years, Kathy—the love of his life, his greatest companion, and his constant source of strength.
Walter is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy Matrana; his son, Walt Matrana Jr.; his daughter, Angel’ Burns (Jimmy); his sister, Rosie Lemoine (Ronnie); his grandchildren, Jessica Cahanin (Chris), Dakota Burns (Ashley), and Cameron Burns (Jenna); and his great-grandchildren, Jaxon, Emory, Bryleigh, Ella, and Tobi. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Nick and Clara Matrana; his sister, Beverly Brown; and his brother, Larry Matrana.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 1:00 PM at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 522 E Flournoy Lucas Rd., Shreveport, LA. Walter will be laid to rest at Centuries Memorial Park, 8801 Mansfield Road, in the Fellowship Garden, Lot 45D, Grave 9A.
Serving as pallbearers will be Walt Matrana Jr., Jimmy Burns, Dakota Burns, Cameron Burns, Jaxon Burns, and Chris Cahanin.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Garden Park Rehabilitation for the compassionate care they provided Walter in his final days.
Walter Matrana Sr. will be remembered for his selflessness, quiet strength, and deep love for his family. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the family he so dearly cherished.
There will be a reception for family and friends at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church following the committal service.
