Obituary of Matthew J. Jeremias

Matthew J. Jeremias, 85, of State College, passed peacefully at his home, surrounded by loved ones, on Monday, March 18, 2024.

Matt was a true Lover of Life in every sense of the word. His number one love was his faith in God. A close second was his wife of 35+ years, Carla. Their love for one another was like no other. They shared an unbelievable bond and were each other's best friends and soulmates.

Matt was also devoted to his four children, eleven grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren and showered them with love over the years. He was so proud of his family and was always willing to share a story or an update with anyone who would lend him a listening ear.

Those who were blessed to have known Matt knew of his love of sports, specifically Nittany Lion and Pittsburgh Steeler football, as well as his lifetime passion for hunting and fly fishing. He loved to share a glass of wine with family and friends and tell stories of his childhood growing up in Beaverdale, PA, his many high school adventures, his life in the Air Force, and his careers in electronics and finance.

Matt could captivate a room with his presence and wonderful charm. Family, friends, and even the many medical professionals who treated him throughout his entire life could not help to be won over by his smile and inspired by his strength and willingness to fight through any adverse health issue that seemed to plague him off and on during his lifetime. He was a fighter in every sense of the word and a true hero up until the end.

Matt served in the United States Air Force from 1957 through 1960 until medically and honorably discharged. He was stationed at Lackland in Texas, Chanute in Illinois, Stephenville in Labrador, Thule in Greenland, and Stewart in Smyrna, TN.

Matt is survived by his wife, Carla; his sister Helen Gdula of Johnstown; his four children, Stephen (wife Brenda), Anthony (wife Tracy), Susan Drake (husband Steve), and Douglass (wife Leigh); his grandchildren, Steva Shea (husband Mike), Jordan Jeremias, Ethan Jeremias, Austin Jeremias, Allyson McMinn, Grant McMinn, Charlotte Jeremias, Jamin Jeremias, Amiee Drake, Brad Drake, and Matt Drake, as well as three great-grandchildren, Liam Shea, Alyssa Drake, and Owen Drake.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 7, 2024, from 1 to 3 PM at Koch's Funeral Home, 2401 S. Atherton St, State College, PA.

A funeral service will be on Monday, April 8, 2024, at 11 AM at Our Lady of Victory Church, 820 Westerly Pkwy in State College with Father George Jakopac officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the American Cancer Society or 365 Hospice.

Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home. Online condolences may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com or visit us on Facebook.