Lance was born in Oak Park Illinois to Lyle and Mary Matassa. He was the middle of three siblings that included his brother Bob and sister Lori. He is survived by his wife Karen, son Brandon, daughter Nicole, sister, three nieces, three great nephews and one great niece.
Lance spent most of his first 14 years growing up in a suburb near Chicago Illinois and a couple of elementary years in California. His family moved to Arizona in 1970 where he enjoyed the freedom of riding dirt bikes in the desert, playing baseball and getting together with his friends. Lance cherished many friendships throughout his life and stayed in contact with his Chicago high school buddies throughout his life.
Lance met Karen in 1977. The couple moved to Newport Beach California where Lance managed a line of fine luggage businesses. They eventually returned to Arizona where they were married and started their family. Lance loved being with his family and celebrating holidays.
Lance was forever an entrepreneur owning and operating his own businesses out of California and Arizona for over 20 years. Lance later transitioned into banking where he enjoyed managing and assisting home mortgage teams and shared several fond friendships with his peers.
Inspired by his older brother Bob, Lance developed a deep knowledge and passion for muscle cars and line control model airplanes. He could be found at the local flying field nearly every weekend, spending time with his pilot buddies and celebrating holiday family picnics after flying at the park. Lance ran the AMA sanctioned F2D combat competition in Phoenix where entries included competitors from all around the United States and other countries.
Lance will be missed immensely, but his legacy will live on with his friends and family, and especially with his influence that shaped his sister’s life, who shared many of his hobbies and interests.
Lance’s family is planning his celebration of life to take place at a local park in November. Check back at this webpage after the summer for the exact date and details.
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