Matthew Paul Starcevich, 1916-2003

The Daily Oklahoman - 25 January 2003

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  Matthew Paul Starcevich (3-21-1916), of Norman, died at home Tuesday evening, January 21st. His daughter, Judy, her husband, Jack Fite, and Matt's son, Richard were at his bedside.

  Matt was born in Jerome, Iowa, and was the son of Matthew and Mary Starcevich. He is survived by three brothers and a sister; John Starcevich of Oklahoma City, Mary Kruzich, George Starcevich and Mick Starcevich, all of Centerville, Iowa. Matt graduated from Coe College, Cedar Rapids, Iowa and continued graduate studies at Columbia University, New York.

  He was coaching in Iowa when he received a direct commission to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Matt served in World War II and was recalled for the Korean War. He was commanding officer of several bases, including Great Lakes Naval Base Boot Camp in Chicago, Illinois. Matt received the Navy Marine Corp Medal for bravery after entering and rescuing a pilot from a burning plane. At the time of his honorable discharge, Matt had attained the rank of Commander.

  Matt and Clem, his wife, moved to Norman in 1966, where he began his 15-year career with Kerr-McGee Corporation as Manager of Organization Development. Matt was nationally recognized and known for executive development and training. Governor Dewey Bartlett personally recognized Matt as Executive Director of and for his contributions to the Reorganization of the State of Oklahoma. Following retirement in 1981, and the formation of his consulting firm, Management Performance Systems, Inc., he conducted senior management seminars in executive development and training.

  After retirement, Matt's activities included being Eucharistic Minister at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, owning and operating an Oklahoma ranch with his son, John, and carrying a three handicap in golf.

  Matt was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather to Children: Dr. Matthew (Judy) Starcevich, Susan (Dale) Braddy, Dr. John (Mary) Starcevich, Judy (Jack) Fite, and Richard Starcevich, Grandchildren: Thomas Braddy (Kelly Christie), Dr. Kathleen Braddy (Wade Smith), Brett Starcevich, Michael (Cara) Braddy, Ryan Fite, Lindy (Jesse) Mitchell, Matthew Fite, Mark Starcevich, Michael Fite, John Starcevich; and Niki Starcevich. Great-grandchildren: Mikaela Grace Braddy Smith, Jacob Matthew Braddy, and Savannah Faith Mitchell.

  Matt was preceded in death on 8-4-02 by his wife Clem of 61 years; his parents, Matt and Mary Starcevich; sister, Ann Vinton; Grandson Brett Starcevich, and Granddaughter-in-law, Cara Braddy.

  Matt was an American hero, and will be greatly missed. Visitation and Vigil Service will be at Guardian - Mayes Funeral Home, Norman, Friday, January 24th at 7:00pm. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Thomas More, Norman, Saturday, January 25th at 12:00pm. Vigil Service and Funeral Mass will be officiated by Father Bill Pruett.