The family of Frank John Matasci, age 94, has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to honor their Hero at his final services, we are privileged to do so.
Frank Matasci was born February 20, 1928 to Swiss immigrants John and Rose Matasci on a farm near King City, California. He passed away April 11, 2022 at his home in Nipomo. He helped work the family farm for much of his childhood, and it was then that he became curious about the crop dusters that flew over the fields, launching a life-long love of airplanes and aviation.
After graduating from King City High School in 1948, Frank enlisted in the Air Force in 1949. While he was in Schenectady, New York for special training, he met his future wife, Betty Daley. They were married in 1952 and shared nearly 60 years, six children and a home together until her passing in 2010.
Since they decided to start a family, Frank did not reenlist, but moved to the Los Angeles area where he began what would become a 40-year career in the aerospace industry. In 1960, he accepted a position with Martin Marietta at Vandenberg Air Force Base and moved his young family to a home in Nipomo. He went on to work there for 30 years, retiring in 1990.
His love of airplanes led Frank to get his pilot’s license, and he became a collector of everything aviation. He would bring home wrecked Piper Cubs and Aeroncas, which he would rebuild and fly around the Central Coast . You could find him flying over Nipomo, tipping his wings as a hello to his neighbors. In his retirement, he and Betty traveled the United States and frequently brought their grandchildren along on their many adventures.
Frank is predeceased by his wife Betty, son Bruce, grandson Sean, parents and siblings. He is survived by his children, Frank, Mike, Debbie, Tim and Nancy, eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran.
Time Table for Wednesday, 20 APR 22:1315 - Staging at Original section of the Santa Maria Cemetery, 1501 S College Dr., Santa Maria, CA 93454
https://goo.gl/maps/dEXPpax9eHBsodhs81330 - Mission briefing
1340 - Flag Line, Service with full Military Honors.
RC John Archuleta (Milkshake)
ALR 26 Bakersfield
PGR Assistant State Captain So.Central Ca.US Army 62/65
(805) 441-8506
45jarchuleta@gmail.com
You do not have to be a Veteran or a motorcycle rider to attend this mission. All P.G.R. members are welcome. We encourage those who do not ride to participate in your car. If this is your first mission, go to the initial staging area, and you will be briefed by the R/C (Ride Captain). Dress for motorcycle riding or wear casual attire if you are driving a cage (car). Please feel free to attend any portion of this mission you can. Please ride/drive safely.
Remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent with honor and respect for our Heroes—no talking, smoking, or cell phone use during the flag line or service. Please keep radios off and engine noise to a minimum. Remember, cemeteries are hallowed ground. Show respect to all who are there, not just the ones we honor.
