Obituary of Carlos Mata

MATA, Carlos of Saginaw, Michigan went to be with our Heavenly Father on Monday, January 13, 2014 at Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center, Palliative Care Unit. Age 78. Son of the late Jose and Clara (Lujano) Mata, Carlos was born on July 17, 1935 in San Antonio TX. Carlos proudly served as a United States Marine from 1953 until 1955. Just a few years after his honorable discharge, he was married to Alice G. Garcia on May 6, 1958, his loving wife of 52 years. She preceded him in death on August 15, 2010. During his career he worked as a driver for Peoples Refuge, retiring after many years of service. Surviving are three sons, three daughters and their spouses: Grace (Eddie) DeLeon, Fred (Theresa) Mata, Theresa (Carl) Daggs, Martin (Tammy) Mata, Mary (Dan) Barron, and Thomas Mata. He raised two grandchildren: David Carlos Mata, Jr. and Melissa Mata. He leaves 27 grandchildren; 42 great grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren. Also surviving are a brother-in-law, Thomas (Diane) Garcia; two sisters-in-law: Mary Rueda and Frances Oviedo; many nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by a son, David Carlos Mata, Sr. and three siblings: Janie Mata, Linda (Athur) Salas and Frank Mata and two brothers-in-law, Frank Oviedo and Rudy Rueda; and father- and mother-in-law, John and Inez Bull. He enjoyed his boxing nights and being around family. His family will miss him dearly for the way he was always able to make them laugh and for his beautiful smile. The family wishes to thank the VA Medical Center Palliative Care Unit; especially, Mike Pressler, Diana Esckelson, and Kim Bouliew for their loving care. FUNERAL: Funeral Service will take place at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, January 17, 2014 at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd (off State). Rev. Fr. Joseph A. Schabel will officiate. Rite of Committal will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Military honors will be conducted under the auspices of the American Legion Post #439. VISITATION: Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the funeral home on Thursday from 2:00 to 5:00 and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. and on Friday from 12:30 p.m. until the time of the service. MEMORIALS: Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.deislerfuneralhome.com.