Matthew J. Kania
“Matt”
Born November 10th, 1923
Died January 27th, 2018
Matt is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Nerissa A. Kania, sons, Alan(Debbie) and Mitch(Kasaundra), Daughter Manda(Troy), Grandsons Tony(Kim), Nick(Anna) and Caldwell, Granddaughters Kimmie, Kady, Kallie and Victoria, Great Grandsons Max, Leo and Bryson, Great Granddaughters Ayla and Bella, and Brother-in-Law Mike West. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Anna Kania, Brothers Stan and Walter and Sisters Helen, Mary and Frances.

Matt was born at home in Minneapolis, Minnesota on November 10, 1923 to Frank and Anna Kania. He graduated from North High School in Minneapolis in 1942 and joined the United States Navy in 1943 during WWII. He served proudly as a Seabee in the Construction Battalion, USNCTC, Williamsburg, VA., the 136th Naval Construction Battalion and the 72nd Naval Construction Battalion. Beginning with Boot Camp in Williamsburg, VA. He moved to Advanced Training camp, in Endicott, RI then on to Camp Lee, Camp Thomas, California, Hawaii, Guam and Japan. Matt was honorably discharged in March of 1946 and moved back to Minnesota and tried his hand at farming. He soon after took a job in St. Louis, MO. at the Faithful Words Printing Company. After Faithful Words he joined the Aeronautical Chart and Information Center in December of 1949, which eventually became the Defense Mapping Agency Aerospace Center. He retired in 1980 after 30 years of service and was a part of the First Space Shot, First Orbit and First Moon Landing. In 1958 Matt went on a blind date, and during a circle dance proposed to his future wife. It took Nerissa 3 years to say yes. Matthew and Nerissa were married on June 10th, 1961. They had three children Alan, Mitch and Manda. After retirement, Matt and family moved to Cape Coral, FL. He worked for J & C Foods and VFW Post 8463 until the late 80’s. Matt enjoyed spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He was active in the Shriners Moolah Temple and a Past Patron of the Eastern Star in St. Louis. Matt volunteered for the Boy Scouts, Cape Coral High School Band and would spend a few hours almost every day with his fellow servicemen and servicewomen at the VFW. He will be missed by so many.

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