Adam Mattes

ADAM MATTES

OBITUARY

March 26, 1935 to March 29, 2014

Adam Mattes estorben

Adam Mattes of Northeast Philadelphia passed away Saturday, March 29, 2014. He was 79.

Adam was the beloved husband of Maria (nee Dickmann) Mattes for 56 years. He was the devoted father of Jack Mattes and Rosalie Matico (Husband Ross); dear Opa to Christian; and dear brother of Elisabeth Pohl (Oskar).

Adam was born on March 26, 1935 in Brestowatz, Yugoslavia. He was the son of Jakob and Elisabeth (nee Gerich) Laforsch. His father passed away when he was 13 months. He was adopted by his mother's new husband, Johann Mattes, and moved to Filipowa, Yugoslavia. After WWII he moved with his mother, sister, Elisabeth (nee Mattes) Pohl, and late brother, Anton Mattes to Austria where he began his lifelong career as a baker.

In 1956 his family emigrated to the United States and settled in Philadelphia, PA. He fell in love with Maria Dickmann and they married on April 12, 1958. They had two children, Jackob and Rosalie. Over the years Adam worked in different bakeries, and for a short time worked at Laneko, a tool and die shop. He accomplished his dream of owning a bakery in 1972. Adam's Bakery became a family business with his wife, children, and many nieces and nephews working there.

Adam was very active in both the German American and Soccer Communities. He was a founding member of both the Danube Swabian Association of Philadelphia and the Danubia Soccer Club. He served multiple roles: coaching and managing soccer teams as well as dance instructor for the Youth Group. He served as President of the Danube Swabian Association for 12 years. He also served as President of the United Soccer League.

He was active in the Verband der Donauschwaben USA, serving as President of the Eastern Region. He loved to ski and started many of us on our own love for skiing. His new favorite role in life was Oda to Christian Matico! He touched many of our lives as a teacher of dance and soccer.

Relatives and friends are invited to his Viewing Wednesday April 2, 2014, 9 to 10:45 AM at the Fletcher-Nasevich Funeral Home, 9529 Bustleton Ave. Funeral Mass 11:30 AM Church of the Maternity B.V.M. Interment in Resurrection Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Danube Swabian Foundation, USA c/o Rosalia Burmeister, Secretary 12568 Semora St. Cerritos, CA 90703 or to Danube Swabian Association of Philadelphia 1277 Southampton Rd. Philadelphia, PA 19116.

Möge er ruhen in Frieden!