Gerald Edward DeMatteo

It is with deep love and sorrow that we announce the passing of Gerald Edward DeMatteo, 82, on August 18, 2024, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Gerry was born to Rose and Hugo DeMatteo on January 5, 1942, in Detroit, Michigan.

After graduating from Cass Tech High School, he received an accounting degree from Wayne State University. Gerry’s entire career of 40 plus years, from entry level accountant to Chief Financial Officer was in the food service industry with companies such as Rykoff-Sexton, U.S. Food Service, Kraft, Sysco, and the Havi Group. He made numerous enduring friendships during this time.

Gerry married Vivian Wilkins on August 18,1979 in Allen Park, Michigan. They met on the ski slopes of Boyne Highlands at Harbor Springs, Michigan, when he graciously volunteered to help novice skiers, like Vivian, learn how to conquer the bunny slope. They were friends for quite a few years before dating and tying the knot. Along with Vivian came Kim, her 11-year-old daughter, and Gerry lovingly welcomed her to share life in this new family.

Besides skiing, Gerry loved music, baseball and golf. In his teens, he played a mean accordion at the Oakwood Blue Jackets, a neighborhood club. Later on, he played for family and friends. He tried out for the Detroit Tigers because he was an excellent hitter, only as he said, “Unfortunately, I had no speed running the bases.” However, Gerry did coach a women’s softball team to win a championship. He played golf with friends and family, mostly at local clubs. He got the pleasure of playing several rounds of golf at Pebble Beach and Spyglass during executive planning trips. He even parred the 18thhole at Pebble Beach!

As grandkids came along, Papa loved watching them play soccer and baseball. He even helped coach his grandson, Cayden’s baseball team in the West El Paso County Baseball League one summer in Colorado Springs. He was thrilled to share tons of baseball trivia with them and anyone around, totally unsolicited of course. He shared his love for all things Italian by taking the family to Italy...lots of history and gelato.

Gerry had many precious friends, and was a devoted husband, stepdad and papa. He loved well. He is survived by his wife, Vivian; daughter Kim Gilbert (Jim); grandchildren, Micayla and Cayden; brother. Doug (Maureen) and niece, Nicole DeMatteo-Davis (Laura Beth).

Family will host a local Celebration of Life in the near future. Additionally, an out-of-state Celebration of Life for Gerry’s extended family and friends will be announced at a later date.

Those wishing to honor his memory are welcomed to make a gift donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or the American Cancer Society.