Carlos Mata

Carlos P. Mata, 84, of Prince George, passed away on Tuesday, April 12, 2011 at MCV Hospital. Born in Chicago, Illinois, he was the son of the late Ramon and Romona Partida Mata, and was preceded in death by three brothers, Robert P. Mata, Joe P. Mata, and Raymond "Bady" Mata. He is survived by his loving wife, Mauricette of 54 years; two sons, Carlos T. Mata and wife, Katherine, and Rene' J. Mata; a daughter, Linda Mata-Collins and husband, and very special son-in-law, Eddie; sisters, Margaret Flores, Mary Silva and husband, Joe, Helen Gonzales, and Betty Torres; grandchildren, Carlos E. Collins, Matalin B. Collins, Monique Mata, and Marissa Chaney; great-grandchildren, Mackenzie, Madison and Chloe. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews, and one very special niece, Lupe Flores. Carlos was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. To know him was to love him. He loved his family and enjoyed telling jokes. He was a wonderful dancer. Carlos lived his life to the fullest. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles #882, American Legion Post #2, and the Knights of Columbus. Carlos was retired Staff Sergeant with the United States Army, having enlisted October 30, 1945 and retired August 31, 1972. He was stationed in France, Alaska, Germany, and a tour in Vietnam. He also retired from Civil Service after 21 years. Carlos was a Spanish translator for the Prince George County Court System for many years. He loved helping people. It was his passion. He received many awards and decorations which included ARCOM, WWIIVM, NDSM, VSM, RVNCM, 2 O/S Bars and GCMDL. Carlos will truly be missed by all of his family and friends. A funeral mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 16, 2011 in the Church of the Sacred Heart, 9300 Community Lane, Petersburg, Virginia 23805 with Father Jay Wagner, Celebrant. Interment will follow in Southlawn Memorial Park, Prince George. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8:00 p.m. Friday at the Petersburg Chapel of the E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes & Crematory, 3935 S. Crater Road. Flowers are welcome or contributions may be made to the VCU Massey Cancer Center, P. O. Box 980037, Richmond, Virginia 23298.