New Richmond – Jerry Hulet Matricia age 79, died 10:45 p.m. Tuesday, August 21, 2012 in his home following a battle with cancer. He was born in Crawfordsville, IN August 25, 1932 the son of the late Augustine F. and Mary Ruth Martin Matricia. He was raised by his grandparents, Pete and Gertrude Martin on a farm east of New Richmond. He was a graduate of New Richmond High School. On October 7, 2000 he married Eileen Hurt Bailey in Crawfordsville and she survives.

Jerry served 21 years in the U.S. Army. He was a highly decorated Master Sergeant serving in Special Forces with the Green Berets. He served two tours of duty in Korea and four tours of duty in Viet Nam. During his fourth tour in View Nam he was injured and received the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Following his discharge from the Army, Jerry returned to New Richmond and employed by Emerald Acres for 16 years before retiring.

He was a member of Woodland Heights Christian Church, Masonic Lodge, Moose Lodge and was a very knowledgeable military history buff.

Surviving along with his wife are: Three daughters, Pam (Dave) Eggleston of Bassett, NE, Marianne (John) McBride of Yuba City, CA, Jody (Israel) Gonzales, Yuba City, CA. A son: Marc (Connie) Matricia of Atwater, CA. A step-daughter Rachael (Josh) Hewitt of Lafayette, IN. A step-son Andrew (Rebecca) Bailey of Nashville, TN. Brother Bob (Nancy) Matricia of New Richmond,. Half-sister Marta Tuttle of Indianapolis, 10 grandchildren, Many great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents and two wives: Norma and Molly.

A celebration of Jerry's life will be held at Woodland Heights Christian Church, Crawfordsville, 1:30 p.m. Saturday, October 6, 2012 with pastors of the church officiating. Military rites by Crawfordsville Legion/VFW. Visit us on line to leave a message or condolence at www.familyandfriendsfh.com