Robert Layton Matzker
January 9, 1941 – March 3, 2025
Robert (Bob) Layton Matzker, 84, of Ballwin, Missouri, passed away on March 3, 2025. Born on January 9, 1941, in St. Louis, Missouri, Bob lived a full and meaningful life, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, creativity, and humor.
A proud veteran, Bob served in the U.S. Army from 1963 to 1965, followed by service in the Army Reserve until 1969. He graduated from Mehlville High School in 1959 before continuing his education at Southeast Missouri State University, Jefferson College, St. Louis Community College, and the Famous Artists School. Bob retired from Ameren UE where he worked as a Lineman/Troubleman before retiring as a Supervisor after 34 years of service.
Bob’s talents and passions defined his life’s work. With an artistic eye and a keen attention to detail, he built and rehabbed homes that reflected his craftsmanship. A gifted artist and skilled homebuilder, he also volunteered on multiple trips to Mexico, using his expertise to help construct schools for his church. Bob was also the proud owner of Jimbo’s Pizza. He also enjoyed and spent many years researching his ancestry, tracing it back to approximately 800 AD.
Known for his great sense of humor, Bob had a mischievous laugh and a quick wit that brought joy to everyone around him. He loved to talk with anyone who would listen. His warmth and kindness left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife, Dolores Matzker, daughter, Dawn (Ken) Johnson, son, Rob Matzker, stepchildren, Mary (Charlie) Ernst, Sharon (Charlie) Hartung, and Ken (Shannon) Benedek, siblings, Ria Tanz Kubota (the late Shiro), William (Carolyn) Matzker, Vicki Matzker, Geri Hartsell, Jim (Karen) Matzker, Christi (Joe) Hoven, Steve (Dawn) Matzker, Mari (Mark) Macomber, Don Matzker, Mike (Lisa) Matzker, Joi (Scott) Tenholder, brother-in-laws, Guy (Patt) McDermott, and Eleonore Salzman (the late Curt McDermott)
Bob also had six grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson, all of whom loved visiting and spending time with him and Grandma Dee. Additionally, he had nine step-grandchildren who called him “Papa” and enjoyed the annual “July 4th Granny and Papa Sleepovers”. He will also be missed by many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Grace (Edward) Luking and father Edward (Gene) Matzker, his sister, Donna Luking, his brother, Eddie Matzker Jr., and his daughter, Tammy Worley.
A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at Kutis Funeral Home, 5255 Lemay Ferry Road, St. Louis, MO 63129. The day will begin with a viewing at 10:00 AM, followed by a service at 1:00 PM.
After the service, Bob will be laid to rest with military honors at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, Sheridan Road, St. Louis, MO
63125 at 2:00 PM. A reception will follow the graveside service at the Royal Orleans Banquet Hall, 2801 Telegraph Rd, St. Louis, MO 63125.
Bob’s life was one of hard work, laughter, and love. He loved his family dearly. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
My deepest sympathues for loss of your loved one.
Charlie and I send our sincere condolences to the family. Bob had an accomplished life with many achievements and no doubt entered the Kingdom with grace and dignity. May your memories bless and sustain you during this time.
Dad I love you! You will always be remember with so many great memories! Thanks for giving me the best childhood. Your love and work ethic shaped me into the person I am today! It’s a comfort to know we will be together again someday. Forever grateful, forever Loved, Forever in my heart❤️
You’re daughter Dawn Leslie
My sweet kind caring brother you will always be important part of my life, and I will miss you.
Losing your dad is a profound loss. My deepest condolences to your family.