1938-2016
Branford, CT – George A. “Matte” Materas Jr., 78, a longtime Southbridge resident, passed away at The Connecticut Hospice on July 25th, 2016. Born on March 5th, 1938 in Southbridge to the late George A. Materas Sr. and Claire (Gauthier) Materas, he grew up in Southbridge then moved to the Groton, CT area where he has resided the last 25 years. George was a veteran of The U.S. Air Force and served during the Vietnam War.
He worked at Arland Tool & Manufacturing Sturbridge, MA with his father for many years, Friendly Ice Cream plant in Wilbraham, MA, and for many years as a limousine driver for the CT casinos.
George grew up playing cards with his parents and his family. His love and skill of card playing progressed throughout his life. He eventually became one of the most skilled poker players in New England winning hundreds of poker tournaments.
George is predeceased by his sister Joan Brousseau of Palmer MA, and his wife and love of his life Catherine O’Neil Materas.
George is survived by his 3 children, Christine Sprouse and her husband Dennis of Sturbridge, Jeffrey Materas and his wife Elaine of Southbridge, and Steve Materas and his wife Ronda of Pomfret CT; 8 grandchildren, Sean, Dennis, Jessica, Harry, Joy, Hillary, Gianna, and his grandson Michael J. Sprouse who predeceased him in 2013 was there Monday to welcome him home; and 2 great grandchildren Jacob and Charlotte.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday July 30th at 9:30 am at the Oak Ridge Cemetery, Southbridge MA. All are welcome. Memorial donations can be made to The Connecticut Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford CT 06405. Services have been entrusted to the Gilman Funeral Home and Crematory, 104 Church St., Putnam, CT 06260. For memorial guestbook visit www.GilmanAndValade.com.
Susan and Jeffrey Shikoluk
We are deeply saddened by the news of George’s passing. We frequently enjoyed playing poker with George; he was always so friendly and such a gentleman. We are so sorry for your loss, our most sincere condolences.
Neal Mulligan
Don,t fogey to post your blinds. Rest in peace, good buddy.
fred ianniello
The last 3 years were really tough for you, but you handled everything, and always maintained your sense of humor. You touched so many people and made everyone’s life a little brighter. I will miss you my friend, but take solace knowing your suffering is over and you are in a better place. Rest in peace.
fred ianniello
deepest sympathies to the family. The last 3 years were really tough, but through it all you never lost hope and always had a smile for everyone. You touched so many people and made everyone’s life a little brighter. I will miss you my friend, but take solace knowing your in a better place, with people you love. Rest in peace.