Tom was born on September 21, 1942, to Joseph and Lorraine Mataya in St. Louis. He was the only boy with four sisters: JoAnn Gruen (she and husband Rich both deceased), Patti Akers (husband Patrick deceased), Muffy (Bob) Robben and Kathy (Len) Cepicky.
After finishing grade school at St. Agnes, Tom went to St. Mary’s High School where he played baseball and soccer. After graduating, he served 6 months in the US Army Reserves and then enrolled at St. Louis University on a soccer scholarship. Tom helped bring SLU 2 NCAA soccer championships in 1962 and 1963.
Tom met the love of his life, Ginny Stephens, at Teen Town at St. Anthony’s High School. In 1965, Tom and Ginny were married and grew their amazing love story with Paul (Linda) Mataya, Angie O’Hara, and Joe (Julie) Mataya.
At age 55, Tom retired from Anheuser-Busch, after 33 years, to begin his very active retirement. Tom refereed high school and college soccer as well as umpired high school baseball. In addition, he volunteered as a tutor at St. Mary’s High School. Into his 60s and 70s, he worked in the Affton school district as a substitute teacher. Tom and Ginny enjoyed traveling and went on several European trips. His favorite place was the Amalfi Coast of Italy.
Tom is a member of the St. Louis Soccer Hall of Fame, the St. Louis University Soccer Hall of Fame and the Missouri Soccer Hall of Fame. However, his most rewarding accomplishment is the nine grandchildren who were the absolute stars of his world: Michael Mataya, Nick (Mary) Mataya, Kevin O’Hara, Emily Mataya, Jon Mataya, Kate O’Hara, Ryan O’Hara, Tommy Mataya, and Dominic Mataya.
Tom was an amazing storyteller. He entertained his kids and grandkids with his funny childhood adventures and the practical jokes he and his SLU teammates played on their road trips. His silly stories were known to pass many miles on car rides. He loved riding bikes on Grant’s Trail with Ginny and watching movies.
Tom will always be remembered for his corny sense of humor, his devotion to his family and God and his true joy of living. His memory will live on in the hearts and memories of all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
Services; Funeral from Kutis South County Chapel (5255 Lemay Ferry) on Sat. Dec. 6th, 9:30AM for 10AM mass at Assumption Catholic Church (4725 Mattis Rd.) Interment Park Lawn Cemetery. Visitation at Kutis Friday 12/5 from 4-8PM