James Matzat

James Matzat entered eternal life on December 2020 at age 69.
Born to Arnold and Shirley Matzat in Milwaukee. Jim proudly served the U.S. Marine Corps 1969-1973.
During that time, Jim was stationed in Japan and the Philippines. He was awarded the National Defense
Service Medal and the Rifle Marksman Good Conduct Medal. Jim attended college before beginning his
career with the Post Office. Jim married Julie in 2004 and they honeymooned in Paris.
A life-long athlete, Jim bicycled, jogged, competed in marathons, biathlons and triathlons, and joined
Badger Land Striders. Jim donated to several charities but he most generously supported the Milwaukee
Rescue Mission and Wisconsin Humane Society.
After retiring from the Wauwatosa Post Office as a letter carrier, Jim worked as an EMT for Bell
Ambulance Company while earning a nursing degree. After graduating, Jim worked as an LPN for Roger’s
Memorial Hospital.
In full retirement, Jim enjoyed walking his dog, visiting with neighbors, working out, reading the
newspaper and doing the word puzzles. He also liked attending concerts, watching thoroughbred horse
races, playing slots at the casino, playing daily lotteries, and going to nice restaurants. Jim was a loyal fan
of the Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers.
Jim radiated positive energy and lived his life to the fullest. He worked hard and played hard. Jim was
very unique, intelligent, strong, kind, funny, and never took life too seriously.
He will be dearly missed by: wife Julie Farris; step daughter Erin (Kent) Stache; step grandson Gavin
Stache. Jim is also survived by sister-in-law Stephanie Govin-Matzat, nephews Rob (Stephanie) Stegger-
Matzat, Tony Matzat, other relatives and many friends. Jim is preceded in death by his parents, brother
Larry Govin-Matzat, and other relatives.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Pederson-Nowatka Funeral Home in Watertown is caring for the family. To place an on-line condolence,
please visit www.pn-fh.com.