Donald Gerhard Matushek

Donald Gerhard Matushek, known affectionately as Don by those who loved him, was called home to the Lord on June 23, 2024, leaving a legacy rich with love, wisdom, and accomplishment. Born under the tropical sun of Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, on July 15, 1953, Don was a shining example of what one can achieve with a heart full of dedication and a mind brimming with intelligence.

It is with great sorrow and boundless love that we bid farewell to Don—a loving ex-husband to Lee Ann Rhoton, a cherished brother, and an esteemed member of both the Chicagoland, Illinois and McAllen, Texas communities, McAllen is where he breathed his last, succumbing to cardiac arrest but leaving behind memories that will forever warm the hearts of those he touched.

Don Matushek leaves a tapestry of a life well-lived, beautifully woven with threads of his passions and pursuits. A graduate of Corpus Christi, Texas Seminary, Don continued his education with a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from University of Illinois Chicago. Don parlayed his wisdom and analytical prowess into the foundation of four successful global lighting businesses, lighting up the world with his vision and work ethic.

He nurtured his intellect and shared that analytic spark with the world, yet Don never lost sight of the simple joys in life. An avid bowler and mentor, Don struck a balance between strikes and  spares, guiding the hands of young bowlers—each pinfall signaling the fall of challenges, each gutter ball teaching resilience and resolve.

Don wasn't just an intelligent and analytical businessman; he was a beacon of love. His embrace was a haven, his advice a guiding star, and his presence a comforting warmth that his family will treasure in the twilight of their years.

Don was preceded in death by Ronnie Saenz, Theresa Natal Saenz, and Leonel Saenz Sr.

He is survived by an endearing family who are reflections of his loving spirit: his kin, Lee Ann Rhoton; Leonel "Leo" Saenz Jr. and family; Frances Saenz and family; Linda Grace Salomon and family; Jo Ann Becerra and family. The Nieces and Nephews, who were his pride—Leonel "Lee" Saenz III and family, Aaron Saenz and family, Gabriel Saenz, Annette Lopez, Yvette Lopez, Christina Velasquez and family, Michael Kubala and family, Andrew Kubala and family, Gabriela Salomon, Victoria Becerra, Alicia Becerra, and Matthew Becerra—will carry forward the lessons learned at his knee.

Don Matushek was a man of substance, his life a testament to the virtues of love, intelligence, and deep analysis. He saw the world not for what it was but for what it could be, lighting up the  darkness with not just his businesses but also with his radiant heart.

Today, we do not stand in the shadow of grief but in the light of his legacy. As we lay this remarkable man to rest, we remember not just the milestones and achievements of his storied life, but the laughter shared on bowling lanes, the tender moments with family, and the inspiration he brought to all his endeavors.

Brothers and sisters, as we gather to honor this gentle soul, let us remember the lessons he imparted through his actions. We are reminded that each day is a chance to bowl a perfect game in the lanes of life, mentoring those who follow in our footsteps, sharing our love, transforming our intelligence and analytical skills into gifts for the world.

Rest now, Don Matushek, in the celestial embrace, a life richly lived now a story richly told. Your memory is etched in our hearts, your spirit forever a part of the cosmic tapestry to which we all contribute a thread. Farewell, good and faithful servant; your journey here is done, but your light will continue to shine through the lives of those you have loved and led. Amen.

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