Joanne Matyskela Obituary

Ma, a lot of who I am today was shaped and formed by you...love for music and reading...the White Sox,etc. I'll miss our conversations the most..we'd ramble on just about anything and everything. You were a great, fun, intelligent lady..a great Mom and I miss you terribly...love, your #1 (and only) son!

I know I couldn't have asked for a better mother-in-law. Joan was never nosy, meddling, or cold, but ever welcoming, pleasant and comfortable. It felt odd sometimes calling her Joan, because Mom fit just as well. Joan was more accessible than my own mom - I was very lucky to have her so close. "Let's go to Joan's" was a common impromptu weekend plan that ended up being a very enjoyable time. Joan's house was the ideal sanctuary - serene and peaceful but yet so full of life as you listened to Joan tell one of her stories from behind the kitchen table or out on the deck. Joan could talk. I know that the little things Joan did, like making her special coffee, a quick sandwich, or her wonderful spaghetti sauce, there was a real joy there in doing that to make someone happy. I've never seen Joan angry or indignant (except for the mock indignation as we playfully teased her about her "Joanisms"). Joan showed a lot of courage in her recent battles with her health, and she certainly went through a lot. That she sacrificed college to be a mom speaks volumes about her commitment to her family. I know there will be a big empty space in Joan's family and her friendship will be missed by all who were close to her.

Joan, you were a nice lady indeed, and I will miss you.

I will miss hangin out with her, she was your mom, your wife, grandma, but to me she was Mrs. Matyskela (then she'd tell me not to call her that, just call her Joan)and sometimes even to me, she was Mom. She always had the BEST stories--I will never forget her "dress" story and how they went through the back door for them "Well, how was I supposed to know!" HA! May not be able to see her, but always will feel her laughter and remember her bluntness too! What a great lady and I am blessed to have known her :)

I'm going to miss you, Ma...I'm so happy we were able to spend so much time together this past year. Love you and I'll keep and eye on Dad, Bubba and Kirby.

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.