Matteo Mattessich

Born in Yugoslavia (now Croatia),

and after proudly serving in the Italian Air Force, Matteo came to the United States in 1939, settling in Fairview, NJ.

He lived there and later in New Milford before moving to Holiday City Berkeley in 1995.

Matteo met his wife, Clelia, in 1946 at The Italian Cooperative Hall and later married at Our Lady of Grace Church in Fairview, NJ.

They shared a love of dancing, going on cruises together, and spending time with family and friends. Prior to his retirement in 1987, Matteo was employed as a Longshoreman at ILA Local 1235, Newark, for almost 40 years.

In his retirement, he was a member of the Polish Club of Toms River and was the captain of his bocce team at Holiday City Berkeley.

His proudest achievements were his children and grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his sister, Giovanna Piccini.

Surviving are his wife of 64 years, Clelia;

his 3 children, Richard of Austin TX, Dennis of Belle Meade, and Eileen Portelli and her husband John of Wall; 8 grandchildren, Tiffany, Nicolette, Tessa, Christopher, and Eric Mattessich and Brett, Gabriella and Veronica Portelli; and his siblings, Caterina Hroncich, Maria Piccinich, and Antonio Mattessich.

A private cremation was entrusted to Horizon Funeral & Cremation Services. A Memorial Mass will be held at Our Lady of Grace Church in Fairview, NJ located at 395 Delano Place on January 31, 2015 at 11 am.