Obituary of Giuseppe Matteis

It is with profound grief and sorrow that we announce the passing of Giuseppe “Joseph” Matteis, at 91 years of age at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance on Wednesday November 19, 2025.

Born in Castelvetere sul Calore, Italy on March 2nd, 1934, he was the beloved first born son of the late Carmela (Vena) and Ernesto Matteis. In 1961, with courage in his heart and hope for a better life, Joseph set sail for Canada after proudly serving in the Italian military. He carried with him little more than a suitcase, a dream, and a promise to build something lasting— and he did. Known to everyone in Chatham simply as Joe, he crafted a life rich in family, faith, and quiet accomplishments.

Joseph was the devoted husband of Angelina (D’onofrio) Matteis for 67 years, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and partnership. A skilled carpenter by trade who was the owner and proprietor of Matteis Construction LTD. and a faithful, generous member of his faith community participating in the Good Fellows and the Knights of Columbus at St. Ursula’s Church. For Joseph, serving others was his top priority. He built not only homes but community, friendships, and a legacy rooted in passion, kindness, and determination.

He was a devoted arborist who could read the stories written in the rings of a tree, and he took great pride in tending to his hobby farm, where the land seemed to answer to his gentle care. Joe found joy in nature, in honest work, and in the simple peace of watching things grow. A man of strong faith, deep family devotion, and loyal friendships, Joe’s life was laced with humble passions. He loved all sports but especially enjoyed hunting and an avid

Napoli soccer.

As a proud Canadian immigrant, he took a special interest and enjoyment in hockey, never missing a Montreal Canadiens game— even learning just enough French to enjoy the broadcasts fully. He was an enthusiastic golfer whose proudest sporting triumph was his hole-in-one in September of 2003, a moment he recounted with a sparkle forever in his eye. In his later years, he was honoured with the Make a Difference Award at his retirement home, a testament to his gentle influence on those around him. He loved to travel guided by an impeccable sense of direction that seemed almost mystical. Whether on winding roads or through life’s many seasons, Joe always seemed to know the way.

Loving father of Carmela (Anthony) Bocchino, Leno E. (Rita) Matteis, Concetta (Antonio) Deabreu, and Josephina (Andrew) Bell. Cherished Nonno to Aldo Bocchino (Krista), Giuliana Rodrigues (Paul), Cristina Stenlund (Tyler), Adriano Deabreu, Arianna Bell, Andrew Joseph Bell, and Ciara Bell; and proud great-grandfather of Benjamin, Angelina, Oliver, Cristian, and Nova. Dear brother of Gerarda (Vittorio-dec) Todino, Joanne (Mario) Moccia, and Anthony (Anna) Matteis. He is predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, Maria and Luigi Magliaro, and by his brother Fiore Matteis, and is survived by his sister-in-law Anne Matteis.

Nonno Joe leaves behind a family who adored him, a community who respected him, and a world made gentler by his presence. His hands built, his heart nurtured, and his quiet wisdom guided those fortunate enough to walk beside him. The family would like to thank the staff at Chatham Kent Health Alliance and St Angela Merici retirement home, for the love and care.

Friends and relatives may visit at the Hinnegan Peseski Funeral Home, 156 William St. S. Chatham from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM on Sunday November 23, 2025. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Ursula’s Church, on Monday November 24, 2025 at 10:00 AM. Burial will take place in St. Anthony’s Cemetery.

Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences welcomed at www. peseski.com

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