(October 4, 1926 - January 2, 2008)

Mr. George J. "Marty" Matukonis, Sr., age 81, of Catawissa Street Tamaqua, Pa., died Wednesday, January 2, 2008, at Hometown Nursing & Rehabilitation Ctr. in Tamaqua, Pa.

George was a Coaldale High School graduate. He retired from Kraft Foods of Allentown in 1991, having worked as a painter. Prior to Karft, he served as a Peoples' Security Insurance Agent. George operated a wall papering business during his time of employment. A member of St. Jerome R.C.C. Tamaqua, he served as a Lecture, Eucharistic Minister, and member of the Choir. He belonged to the Henry Baker Knights of Columbus Lodge, Tamaqua Legion Post 173 having served as past Treasurer, was a member of the Andreas Sporting Club, South Ward Fire Co., and Coached C.Y.O. basketball for St. Jerome's in the late 1950's. George served in the United States Army during WWII.

Born in Coaldale, Pa, he was the son of the late George and Mary (Sheskus) Matukonis.

Survived by his wife of 57 years, Mrs. Catherine "Kitty" (Eroh) Matukonis;

One Daughter, Mrs. Christine (Matukonis) Fritz of Tamaqua, Pa.

Two Sons, Mr. Michael F. Matukonis and his wife Teri of Las Vegas, Nev. Mr. Peter S. Matukonis of Las Vegas, Nev.

One Sister, Mrs. Ann (Matukonis) Finegan of Okland, N.J.

One Brother, Mr. Al Matukonis of Woodhaven, N.Y.

Eight grandchildren Three great-grandchildren

Preceded in death by son, George J. Matukonis, Jr.; daughter Kathy Matukonis; grandson George Matukonis III, brothers, Anthony and Joseph Matukonis;

Arrangements are being handled by E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home, Inc., 655 East Broad Street Tamaqua, Pa., where the family will receive friends from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Friday, January 4, 2008, and from 8:45 A.M. 9:30 A.M., January 5, 2008.

Mass of Christian Burial at St. Jerome R.C.C. 10:00 AM Saturday, January 5, 2008, Rev. William Campion officiating.

Interment will be at St. Jerome R.C.C. Cemetery in Tamaqua, Pa.

Mass cards and Memorials to the church.

Online registry and condolences to may be signed at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com