Stanley J. Matunas III, age 81, of Merrillville, IN, passed away on Wednesday, November 27, 2024.

Stanley is survived by his daughter, Michelle (Jeff) Jackowski; and son, Stanley (Tracy O'Neill) Matunas IV; five grandchildren: Joshua (fiancé Sara Shimala) Jackowski, Jacob, Jackowski, Kathryn (fiancé Max Pastel) Jackowski, Emory Matunas and Amelia Matunas; sisters-in-law: Cindy Persin and Pam Matunas; brother-in-law, Ed Hojnacki; and his nieces, nephews and many good friends.

Stanley was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia; parents: Stanley and Violette Matunas; and siblings: Sandy Hojnacki and George Matunas.

Stan grew up in Glen Park and was a graduate of Lew Wallace High School and Purdue University. He married his best friend, Pat, in 1967 and settled in Merrillville for the remainder of his life. He worked his entire professional career as a supervisor in several areas at the Bethlehem Steel Burns Harbor plant from 1965 until his retirement in 2002.

He was a longtime member of the Silver Bell Club, a lifetime member and past president of the Winamac Old Auto Club and member of the Ford V8 Club. He was a hilarious Santa Claus and the proudest supporter of everything his grandchildren were involved in. His love for his family, old cars, and great food along with his smile and wry sense of humor will be greatly missed.

Friends may visit with the family on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at Geisen-Pruzin Funeral and Cremation Services, 6360 Broadway Ave., Merrillville, IN 46410 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a Prayer Service at 6:00 PM.

Additional visitation will be on Thursday, December 5, 2024 from 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM at Holy Name Catholic Church, 11000 W. 133rd Ave., Cedar Lake, IN 46303. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00 AM at the church with Fr. Patrick Gawrylewski officiating. Interment to follow at Calumet Park Cemetery in Merrillville, IN.

Visit Stanley's online guestbook at www.GeisenFuneralHome.com 219-663-2500.