Obituary of Clifford Matha

Clifford W. "Cliff" Matha, age 88, of Erie, passed away on Sunday, October 5, 2014 at Erie Veteran's Affairs Medical Center after an on-going illness. Cliff was born on October 16, 1925, the son of the late Clifford W. and Nellie Lynds Matha. Cliff served in the U.S. Navy, as well as being the Heavy Weight Boxing Champion in his naval division. He worked several years on the railroad as a conductor/engineer and he coached Boys Baseball of Erie. He was a long time member of the Eagle's Club (Erie) and he enjoyed classic cars; especially Cadillac's, bowling, golfing, and conquering his favorite TV shows; Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune, as well as singing. Cliff is survived by three sisters; Dawn Martin (Bill) of West Monroe, LA, Lois Laikas of Ashtabula, OH, Pat Riggs (Stefan) of Mount Vernon, OH, four sons: Dale Matha (Patty), Clifford "Skip" Matha (Kathy), Brad Matha (Linda), Gregg Matha (Kim) as well as several grand, great, and great-great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Cliff was preceded in death by his loving wife, Theresa A. Platt-Matha "Teddi", one son, Chris W. Matha, one grandson, Clifford W. Matha II "Cliffie", and two sisters; Mary Ann Matha and Betty Yukon. Friends may attend a graveside service on Wednesday, October 15, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at Laurel Hill Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by the Dusckas-Martin Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 4216 Sterrettania Rd. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of the funeral home.