Jody Marie Matz

Jody Marie Matz, 30, of Ponderay, died Friday, October 23, 2009 at Holy Family Hospital in Spokane after a brief illness. She was born May 7, 1979 in Boise, Idaho, and was adopted by Ray and Doris Matz in October of that year. She was raised on the family ranch in Sagle, Idaho. She attended schools in Sagle and Sandpoint and graduated from Sandpoint High School in 1999. Jody had various physical challenges that never held her back whether in her work or play. She was active in Special Olympics both summer and winter, loved horse riding, having been active in 4-H when younger, enjoyed dancing, both cross country and downhill skiing, swimming, bicycling. Jody also had a deep affection for animals, having had many pets over the years; most recently her beloved dog Freckles. She was deeply interested and excelled in both geography and history. Her warm, loving, irrepressible people loving spirit influenced her career choice of working with the elderly as a dietary aide in various area assisted living facilities. She was deeply loved by friends, family, and co-workers. She loved many many people and never forgot a single one of them. Jody is a member of Christ Our Redeemer Lutheran Church. She is survived by her parents: Ray and Doris Matz of Sagle, ID, her brother: Jay (Stephanie) Matz of Sagle; her niece: Makenzie Matz, and by her grandmother: Grandma Ruth Blair of South Dakota, and by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. She had over the years made contact with her birth family who are to numerous too mention. Jody was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, and by her maternal grandfather. Memorial services will be conducted 7:00PM, Thursday, October 29, 2009 at Christ Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, with Pastor Steve Nickodemus, officiating. The family suggests memorials to Bonner Community Food Center, 921 5th Ave., Sandpoint, Idaho 83864 or to a charity of donor’s choice.