New Bedford – David S. Van Matre, 73, of New Bedford died on March 3, 2004 at St. Luke’s Hospital after a long illness.
He was born in Columbus, Ohio, son of the late Robert H. and Vella Mae (Humphrey) Van Matre, and resided in New Bedford since 1985. He was employed by the U.S. Government Department of Defense as a fireman until his retirement in 1985. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of the Korean Conflict and a career military man.
Mr. Van Matre was a member of the V.F.W. Thomas E. Tuttle Post 7239 of Acushnet, the Fleet Reserve Association, the Good Sam Camping Club and the Sunrise Lodge 783 AF & AM of Gahanna, Ohio. He was a recipient of the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Medal. He was an avid camper, enjoyed traveling and loved to spend time with his family.
Survivors include his loving companion: Roberta G. Nadeau of New Bedford; 2 daughters: Diana M. Heine and her husband Paul of Gahanna, OH and Janet S. James and her husband Dennis of Westerville, OH; his special son: Thomas J. Nadeau of New Bedford; a sister: Mary Peterson of Columbus, OH; 6 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and several nieces & nephews.
He was brother of the late Robert H. Van Matre II, Mildred Smith and Vella Mae Van Matre.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend:
A Memorial Service on Friday, March 5, 2004 at 7:00 P.M. at the Kirby Funeral Home, 61 Tarkiln Hill Road, New Bedford.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to MA State V.F.W. Commander Special Project, Room 546-1 State House, 24 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02133.