John J. Matarese, Jr.

John J. Matarese, Jr., “Jack”, age 76 of Wilmington, DE, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Monday, November 15, 2021.  He was born in 1945, in Wilmington, son of the late John J. Sr. and Irene Matarese.

Jack attended St. Elizabeth Grade School and graduated from Salesianum High School, Class of 1963.  Following high school, he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in accounting and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in political science from the University of Delaware.  While at UD, Jack was part of the ROTC program and upon graduation, entered the US Army as a 2nd Lieutenant.  He honorably served as an Army Intelligence Officer in Vietnam, was promoted to 1st Lieutenant, and awarded the Bronze Star.

Jack built a lifelong career in the financial industry.  He lent his expertise to such institutions as Wilmington Trust Co., Chase Bank, and Bank of New York.  Jack was an avid reader and had an amazing knowledge of history, which made his family argue over who would have him on their Trivial Pursuit team.  He was a huge fan of old movies, a lifelong fan and season ticket holder of UD football, and a devoted Phillies fan, even though they broke his heart in 1964.  Jack was a caring and loving brother, uncle, and friend.  He was loved by many and will be genuinely missed by everyone who had the good fortune to know him.

Jack was a resident of the Lorelton Assisted Living Facility in Wilmington, for the past several years.  The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the entire staff, for their kindness and care of Jack.

Jack is survived by his siblings:  Robert Matarese (Peg) of Lewes, DE, Richard Matarese (Terry) of Wilmington, DE, Mary Anne Matarese (Johane) of Wilmington, DE, Patricia Bristow (Robert) of Wilmington, DE, and Daniel Matarese (Janet) of Newark, DE; his Godchildren:  Melinda (Basara) Lutton and Robert Matarese, Jr.; and his many nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, November 23, 2021, at 11:00 AM, at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, Cedar and Clayton Streets, Wilmington, DE, where friends may visit beginning at 10:00 AM.  Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions in Jack’s memory to St. Elizabeth Church or School, 1500 Cedar Street, Wilmington, DE  19805.

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