Obituary of Arlene A Matz

Arlene A. Matz, 92 (née Naxera), of Blue Island, passed peacefully from this life on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

Arlene was the beloved wife of the late Donald W. Matz, Sr. who passed away December 10, 2009. The couple were united in marriage for fifty-six years. She is the loving mother of Donald Jr. (Leslie), Michael (Angela Eigenrauch-Matz), and Debra (Thomas) Hecht. Arlene is the devoted grandmother of five and the proud great grandmother of eleven. Arlene was preceded in death by her sister Mildred Baier (the late Louis).  She leaves many other family members and friends to cherish her memory.

Arlene was born February 26, 1933 in Oak Park to the late Charles and the late Anna Naxera.  A lifelong adventurer at heart, Arlene cherished traveling with Joan, her dear pen pal from England. Their friendship spanned decades and many miles, taking them from the icy landscapes of Alaska to the warm breezes of the Panama Canal. Along the way, Arlene collected souvenir plates, holiday cards, photos, and other treasured mementos from their worldly explorations.

When not on the road, Arlene delighted in arts and crafts—especially crocheting alongside her granddaughter, Kristyn, creating many cherished memories stitch by stitch. At home, she and her beloved husband shared a love of gardening, often spending sunny afternoons tending their plants and canning tomatoes together.  Above all, Arlene’s greatest joy came from her role as “Grandma” and “Granny.” Her heart was fullest when surrounded by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

Visitation for Arlene will be held Tuesday, May 27, 2025 from 10:00 AM until the time of funeral service at 12:00 PM at the Krueger Funeral Home, 13050 Greenwood Avenue, Blue Island. Interment will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, 11500 S. Fairfield, Chicago, IL.