ROBERT “R.J.” J. MATZ, JR.

Robert Joseph “RJ” Matz, Jr. age 33 years, of Appleton, WI passed away Saturday, August 12, 2017 of an unknown condition. He was born September 11, 1983 in Evanston, IL to his parents Robert Joseph Matz. and Deborah L. Matz, nee Jones. We deeply grieve the loss of our son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin and friend. Our gentle giant had a tender heart and was very private. He studied computer science and business at Michigan Tech, Northwest Technical College, UW- Eau Claire and was going to Fox Valley Technical College for his second Associates degree in computer programming where he was very gifted. He developed a love for the electronic arts early in life which influenced his pursuits in computer science academically and his continued passion for gaming, especially those games and stories that captured his imagination and heart as a young man. He also had a passion for sports through enduring fandom. Growing up, RJ was an excellent student who liked helping others. He played soccer but always looked forward to hockey season and being on the ice with his hockey buddies.

RJ is survived by his parents, Robert J. Sr., mother, Deborah L. Matz, nee Jones, his brother, John P., his sister, Stephanie M. “Stevi” (Daniel Spencer) Matz, his aunts, Linda Thompson, Mary Matz-Peterson, Katherine Lavieri and Joanne Noren; his uncles, Charles and James; and several beloved cousins whom he cherished. He is preceded in death by his paternal grandfather and grandmother, John P. and Sylvia “Joan” Matz, maternal grandfather, John O. Jones and uncle, John E. Matz.

A Funeral Service will be held at Haben Funeral Home, 8057 Niles Center Rd., in Skokie, IL, Saturday, at 11am.  Burial to follow at St. Peter Catholic Cemetery, Skokie.