Matthew James Koelzer

April 7, 1956 – December 21, 2024

Bakersfield – On December 21, 2024 our Matthew, 68, passed away peacefully surrounded by family. While our hearts are forever broken, we believe he was called home because God needed a witty joke teller and a master of one-liners.

Matthew Koelzer was born on April 7, 1956 in Bakersfield, CA. He was the fourth child of Jerry and Josephine Koelzer, joining siblings Robert, Geraldine and Joe. Matt entered this world with an easy going personality which continued throughout his lifetime, except when his beloved 49ers were not playing up to par.

When Matt was seven years old the family moved to the home on Rio Linda Drive. It was at that time Matt met his lifelong best friend, Pete Garner. It's unclear who adopted who but the whole Garner family welcomed Matt as a fifth son. Their neighborhood football games were legendary and remembered by many.

Matt and brother Joe were fans of the Three Stooges and had every episode memorized. They were self-taught in the art of slapstick comedy and would regularly reenact what they watched. They both collected memorabilia well into their adult lives.

Matt attended OLPH and Garces High School where he excelled at football and became class president, graduating in 1974. Matt went on to attend Bakersfield College where he received his AA degree. During this time Matt was a single dad and had worked for Pizzaville and Anglen Produce.

Matt's brother-in-law, Steve Toovey, encouraged him to complete certification classes for an employment opportunity at California Water Service. This began his 30+ year career with Cal Water with him retiring in 2018. Throughout these years Matt formed many close relationships - not only with those he worked with but with many others in the community.

At a chance meeting Matt met the love of his life, Pam Sudjian. That chance meeting led to 31 years of love, mutual respect, laughter and complete devotion to each other. They were happiest spending time with family, planning trips to the coast, travels in their trailer, 49er games, concerts of their favorite artists. The memories are endless.

We hold close to our hearts the family trips we were fortunate to have taken together with sister, Nini and nieces. The last one being in March 2024.

Matt left a lasting impression on all who met him. Specifically, his sense of humor. What was not known to all was Matt's deep spiritual faith, his loyalty, high moral compass and his generosity. Matt had his favorite charities that he quietly gave to for years. Matt was extremely patient (except when his 49ers were losing). We all miss that impish smile and we are anxiously waiting for that next one-liner. Matt was deeply loved by his family, friends, coworkers, classmates and golf buddies. The phrase "stand up guy" described Matt perfectly.

Preceding Matt in death are his parents, Jerry and Josie Koelzer; brothers Joe and Robert Koelzer; granddaughter Destinee Koelzer; brother-in-law Steve Toovey; in laws Clarence A. and Donnie Williams.

Those left behind to cherish Matt's memory are his beautiful and loving wife Pam Koelzer; children Gerald Koelzer, Jason Sudjian and Andrea Roberts (Joey); sister Geraldine Toovey; grandchildren Devan and Daysee Koelzer; Pam's siblings and families; and the nieces and nephew that adored their favorite uncle Matt - or "Funcle" as they affectionately called him.

A very special thank you to best friends and neighbors, Don and MC Knowles for their love, support and care for both Matt and Pam.

On June 4, 2005, Matt wrote a song. Here is the last verse, which gives a glimpse into Matt's deep rooted family values:

"And when our time is over, and we're called up to His place,

Will our vision be as crystal, our reflections full of grace?

And I can only hope to pass along all the gifts been given me,

All the treasures of our family, for all of us to see."

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to one of Matt's favorite charities: Tunnel to Towers Foundation (2361 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island NY 10306 - website: t2t.org)

There are no services scheduled. There will be a celebration of life in the spring.