Wilton, NY - George Simon Matthei, 92, of Christina Ct, passed away Tuesday (Oct.12, 2021) at his residence.

Born on March 23, 1929 in Queens, NY, he was the son of the late George and Mary (Arlauskaite) Matthei and graduated with a bachelor's degree in chemistry from St. Bonaventure University. He was a First Lieutenant in the US Army and served in Korea (1952-1954). A life member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion and the B.P.O. Elks. A charter member of the Brigham City, Utah Knights of Columbus, he transferred and was a former member of Saratoga Council 246. Long very active in all these organizations and holding many positions, he was Exalted Ruler in 1996 of Saratoga-Wilton B.P.O. Elks Lodge 161 and supported the many charitable projects that served the local community. One of his fondest events was the Flag Day parade hosted by the Elks every year in Saratoga Springs. He was fiercely patriotic and loved this country. Another manner he served the community was becoming a volunteer Blood Donor donating over time more than eight gallons for the American Red Cross. For many years he enjoyed singing with the Saratoga Racing city Chorus, being honored once as Barbershopper of the year.

He is predeceased by his wife of 57 years Rita A. Matthei, whom he married on May 5, 1953 at the US Army Chapel in Pittsburg, CA; and his sisters Dorothy Erickson and Barbara Matthei. Survivors is survived by his seven children: Kayne Strippe of Waterbury Ctr. VT, David Matthei of Barre VT, Stephanie (Edward) Harms of Freeport FL, Michael Matthei of Middletown DE, Valerie Matthei of Middletown DE, Gregory (Mary Ann) Matthei of Troy NY, and Elisabeth Matthei of Clifton Park NY; one sister-in-law Ruth Thomas of Hilton Head SC, eleven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, five nieces and one nephew.

Relatives and friends may call from 5 to 8pm Monday (Oct. 25) at the William J Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway Saratoga Springs (518-584-5373).

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10am Tuesday in St. Clement's Roman Catholic Church, 231 Lake Avenue. Burial with military honors will follow at the Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville. Following interment, a gathering for friends and family will commence at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge, 1 Elk Lane, Saratoga Springs.

Memorials may be made in his name to the Elks National Foundation ( pledges@elks.org )

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.