June 12, 1931 – September 10, 2025
Ignac “I.G.” Matula, 94, of Victoria, Texas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on June 12, 1931, in Ganado, Texas, to the late Adolph and Janie Strelec Matula.
I.G.’s life was marked by his deep devotion to his wife of 58 years, family, faith, and country. He served honorably in the U.S. National Guard, a proud chapter in his life that demonstrated his commitment, patriotism, and sense of duty. He embodied the values of the “Greatest Generation.” He was a man who never met a stranger, greeting everyone with a strong handshake, a gentle smile, and a kind heart. His warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Following his military service, I.G. worked in the construction industry and later retired from Alvarez and Associates. He was a dedicated member of Holy Family Catholic Church, where he was active in the Knights of Columbus Council 9088. He attended Mass faithfully until his health declined, yet his faith never wavered.
In addition to his strong faith and work ethic, I.G. had many passions that enriched his life and those around him. He had a deep love for working with cattle, spending countless hours tending to his land and livestock. His garden was a source of pride, providing both food and joy through the seasons. I.G. was known for his talent with a barbecue pit, delighting family and friends with his smoked meats and grilled meals. He was also skilled with his hands, enjoying craftwork with wood and building with care and precision. He was also an award-winning winemaker. Perhaps most of all, he found great joy in cheering on his grandchildren at their many sporting events—always their biggest fan from the sidelines.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of many years, Mary Helen Matula, in 2011, and his grandson, Dustin Rogers, in 2019.
I.G. is survived by his four loving children: Diane (Larry) Gallup of Victoria; Kenneth (Cindy) Matula of Georgetown; Dale G. (Mary Beth) Matula of Victoria; and Karen (Michael) Volcik of Victoria. He is also survived by his sister, Janie Sowell of Edna; 14 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.
A special thanks to the wound care specialists Mark Cardenas and Matt Arlit.
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Visitation and Services
The family will receive friends for visitation on Monday, September 15, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Rosewood Funeral Chapels, with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at Holy Family Catholic Church with full military honors provided by the Victoria Veterans Council.
Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery.
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Pallbearers
Serving as pallbearers will be his grandsons: Kenny Matula Jr., Kristopher Volcik, Drey Matula, Derek Rogers, Miles Harvey, and Taylor Harvey.
Honorary pallbearers include Robert Alvarez and all Alvarez sons, all nieces and nephews, Billy Moeller, the staff of the 6th Floor at PAM Southeast Unit, Harbor Hospice, and Riverside Oaks employees.
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Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Hospice and Holy Family Catholic Church in I.G.’s memory.
The family invites you to share memories and words of comfort at:
www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com
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