Michael DeMatteis

Acerra, Italy to Carmine and Theresa DeMatteis. When Michael was just five years old, his

family immigrated from Italy to the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. He graduated from Foreman

High School while working as a Meat Cutter in a local butcher shop. From there, Michael began

his career with American Airlines in Sky Chef. With an outstanding work ethic, he landed a

position within American Airlines as a Fleet Service Clerk. It was in Illinois that Michael started a

family with his former spouse, Connie. They settled in Addison, building their own home with a

beautiful deck and playhouse in the backyard for their daughters. After the birth of their son,

they made the journey West to Arizona. Michael capped off an amazing 32-year career with

American Airlines retiring as Crew Chief in 2003. He was well respected and admired by his

peers which forged many lasting friendships.

He loved to tinker and work on projects around the home. He was an incredible Mr. Fix-It

working on everything from electrical, plumbing, and carpentry. He could always find a more

efficient way to do a task. He enjoyed working on his hobby trains and playing board games with

his children and grandchildren. Michael embodied the spirit of Christmas, his favorite time of

year, and found great joy in decorating his home and watching every Christmas movie. His

favorite pastime was cheering on the Chicago Bears with his son, Joe.

Michael is preceded in death by his father, Carmine DeMatteis, and his mother, Theresa

DeMatteis. Michael is survived by his children Sami Oakley (JR), Nikki DeMatteis Gonzales

(Rodney), and his son Joe DeMatteis; his grandchildren Timothy, Eli, and Jack; his sisters

Connie Murray (Gary) and Sandy Spenk (Frank) along with their children Richard Murray (Ax),

Michael Murray (Jenny), Kristin Post, and Ryan Spenk (Katie); not to mention the countless

others whose lives he touched.

Services will be held on March 12, 2021, 11:00am, at Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park, 6747

E. Broadway Rd, Mesa, AZ 85206. If you would like to send flowers, the family has chosen

AzSympathy.com for the service.