On Wednesday, July 22, 2020, Joseph Edward Matter, a caring and compassionate husband, father, grandfather, brother, and good loyal friend, passed away at his home in Tomball, Texas.

Joe was born on May 1, 1960 in Grafton, ND to Donna and Donald Matter of Crystal, ND. He grew up enjoying sports and set state records in high school hockey that are still unbroken. Joe served six years in the North Dakota National Guard as a Light Wheeled and Generator Mechanic. He went on to earn his Associates Degree in Machine Tool Technology/Machinist from the North Dakota State College of Science. Joe honed his skills, specializing in large industrial engine systems in the energy industry where he worked nationally and internationally during his career.

Joe had a passion for the outdoors and professional sports, and enjoyed golf, boating, hunting, motorcycle touring, raising wonderfully fun dogs and other adventures. However, time he shared with the children in his life was cherished. Among friends and family, Joe was also known for his quick wit and humor, which could be self-deprecating, pointed, glancing, off-the-wall, but always pure Matter. He loved to laugh, and we loved to laugh and have fun with him.

Preceding Joe in death, are his parents, Donna Helen Ramsey Matter and Donald Mathew Matter. He is survived by his wife, Karen; his children, Shawn, Nicole and Austin; his grandson, Aiden; and Karen's daughter, McKenzie; as well as his siblings, Judy, Jim, Mathew, Carol and Margaret; seven nieces and nephews; great nieces and nephews; relatives and many valued friends, both long-term and recent.

Due to health precautions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, a memorial service and the family's celebration of life for Joe is delayed until it is safe to gather family, friends and colleagues. It is likely that the event will include both in-person and virtual participation.  Please let us know if you would like to be kept apprised of details regarding the family's celebration of life for Joe. Contact information for his sister, Margaret, is: margaret09matter@comcast.net

In lieu of flowers, please send a memorial donation for Joe to your preference among the following veterans support organizations:

• Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America: https://iava.org/ https://iava.org/
• Vietnam Veterans of America: https://vva.org/