Peter "Pete" Matsko

Peter (Pete) Matsko of 3019 Hwy. 14, Greer, died peacefully at his home where he went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Saturday, November 10, 2012 after a long battle with Lewy Body Dementia. His beloved wife of 44 years and family were by his side. Born June 6, 1929 in St. Michael, Pennsylvania, he was the son of Andrew and Mary Matsko. He is predeceased in death by his parents; three brothers, Andrew, John and Paul; two sisters, Mary Malonek and Ann Matsko. He is survived by his wife, Christine; a brother, Michael; a sister, Julie Sturey and numerous nieces and nephews. Pete was a U.S. Air Force veteran of the Korean Conflict. He was honored by the Pelham-Batesville Fire Department for 25 years of service from serving as a voluntary fireman to holding the position as a commissioner. Pete retired after 29 years as the owner and proprietor of Ross Grocery and clerk in charge of Pelham Rural Station Post Office. Children in the community loved “Mr. Pete” and enjoyed visiting the store where they were always greeted with a cheerful hello and a brown paper bag for them to fill with free candy. “Mr. Pete” proudly displayed pictures of his nieces and nephews on top of the store candy counter. Soon the counter was covered as many of the community children brought their school pictures to be added to this “Hall of Fame”. Pete enjoyed all sports. He was an avid fan of Clemson University and the Atlanta Braves. He was a member of Pelham First Baptist Church, where he loved to attend the services before his illness. Pete will be missed by his wife who was a dedicated, caring, compassionate and a loving caregiver to him during his illness, nieces and nephews who loved and considered him not only a beloved uncle, but another father image. Pete’s legacy of a sense of humor, contagious laughter, a love of people, kindness and a positive attitude will be missed. However, comfort comes in knowing that he is free from his pain and suffering because he now lives in a home of peace, joy, and contentment called Heaven. Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Pelham First Baptist Church, conducted by Rev. Stephen Talbert and Dr. Gary Rogers. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be held from 12:30 until 1:45 p.m. Tuesday at the church prior to the service. The family is at the home. The family wishes to express their appreciation and gratefulness to Vista Hospice, and all caregivers; a special thank you to Bobby Wood for his unselfish four years of patience, kindness and devotion toward Pete’s care. Memorials may be made to the Family Life Center of Pelham First Baptist Church, 2720 South Old Highway 14, Greer, S.C. 29650 or Vista Care Hospice, 15 Brendan Way, Suite 100, Greenville, S.C. 29615.

Peter "Pete" Matsko

June 6, 1929 - November 10, 2012