Joseph John Matika

          The family of Joseph John Matika of Woodstock, Ontario is saddened to announce his passing on February 10, 2026 at 94 years young, just one week shy of his 95th birthday.

          Joe will be remembered and greatly missed by his wife of 73 years, Leona, his children Joe Matika Jr. (Anita), and Nancy Stephens (Marty).  He will also be missed by his 5 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his older sister Ann Bottoms (Ted) and his parents Michael and Julia Matika.

          Joe was born in Montreal, Quebec on February 15, 1931.  His family moved to the Woodstock area in the 1940’s and operated a tobacco and dairy farm before moving into the city.  In 1961 Joe started his lifetime career and passion in the real estate world, working as a Real Estate Broker, developer, landlord….anything real estate related.  He also had a passion for flying and was a licensed pilot and member of the Woodstock Flying Club in the 60’s and 70’s.

          Joe and Leona were avid square dancers and members of the Woodstock “Y” Promenaders.  Joe loved anything with an engine.  He wanted to work on, learn about, tinker with or drive.  He also loved roller coasters if there was a theme park nearby, even riding them in his 80’s.  Joe was an all-around handy man working on houses and various side projects.  Anything he worked on was always sturdy and well built.  One thing he missed on his bucket list was a trip to Alaska.

          Joe was a big part of Woodstock and Innerkip.  He was willing to help out, give advice (sometimes unsolicited lol!), solving world problems, talking about the universe, politics, and hoped the family would learn from others' mistakes, not their own.  One of his favourite words of wisdom was “Do everything you want before you’re 80”.

          Special Thanks to the Arches Unit at Caressant Care Woodstock for their dedication and love and the care they provided, and to Joe’s friend Peter who regularly visited.

          A Celebration of his life will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, please perform a kind deed in Joe’s memory and if you wish to make a memorial donation please consider the Woodstock Hospital Foundation or the Heart and Stroke Foundation 

Wareing Cremation Services, 225 Norwich Ave., Woodstock, Ontario has been entrusted with Final Arrangements.  Your messages of remembrance and condolence may be shared here at wareingcremation.ca