Obituary of Matthew Joseph Szpunar

Matthew J. Szpunar Age 91, of Elk Grove, California, passed away Saturday, March 15, 2014. He was the husband of the late Maydelle Reese Szpunar. Born in Fall River, Massachusetts, September 26, 1922, to the late Jan (John) and Jozefa Szpunar, Polish immigrants who settled in Massachusetts during the late 1800's. He was preceded in death by his wife Maydelle of 51 years, his daughter Gail Elaine Ayala, his "big" brother Joseph Szpunar and three sisters Jean Wayne, Helena Tetlow, and Stacia Pacheco. He is survived by his grandson Sergeant First Class Michael Anthony Ayala, Jr., his great niece Vickie Brooks, three great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren, and his great-great niece Danielle Valton and family who often referred to him as "Grandfather" UncleMatt. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews on the East Coast as well a community of friends on the West Coast. Matthew proudly served in the US Navy during World War II. During his time in service, he bravely represented his country in battle. Matt Szpunar was employed with the Sacramento Municipal Utility District in Sacramento, California, from August 1947-December 1984. Matt loved his family, cherished his pets, and friends above all else. He took great pride in his Polish heritage. And if given the chance, which was often, Matt would pridefully teach the youngsters Polish language including some words mothers would not approve. Of Matt's talents, he loved dancing the polka and wood working. He and his wife designed and built the home in which he lived for 51 years in Elk Grove. Entering the home one would be given the tour throughout and shown all the household furnishings they crafted together. Services will be held March 24,2014, at 11:00 A.M., St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 8701 Elk Grove-Florin Rd., Elk Grove, California 95624. Interment to follow at Sacramento Memorial Lawn, 6100 Stockton Blvd., Sacramento, California 95824. Reception will be held at the VFW Hall, 7576 Stockton Blvd., Sacramento, California. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to your local SPCA or favorite animal shelter. "You bet your Dupa!"