David J. Matyas

David J. Matyas, age 74, of De Pere, passed away on March 8, 2026. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to John and Mary Matyas, David lived a life defined by dedication to his family, his profession, and his community.

David graduated from St. Norbert College in 1972 and earned his law degree from Marquette University Law School in 1976. In 1975, he married Susan Klein, the love of his life. The couple made their home in De Pere, where they raised their family and where David opened a law practice that served the community for decades.

He spent the next fifty years practicing law, serving as both a public defender and a Guardian ad Litem, advocating for those who needed a voice. In addition to his legal practice, David proudly served the City of De Pere as Municipal Judge for 32 years, carrying out the role with fairness, integrity, and deep respect for the law.

David was a devoted Wisconsin sports fan who followed the Packers, Brewers, Bucks, Badgers, and Marquette University. He enjoyed reading history books, completing puzzles, working on the daily crossword, and reading the newspaper each day. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family and found his greatest joy in watching and supporting his grandsons at their many sporting events.

He is survived by his loving wife of fifty years, Susan Matyas; his children, Molly Matyas, Elizabeth Matyas, Mark (Radhika) Matyas, and Ellen (Joe) Gurholt; and his eight beloved grandsons, Elijah Wright, Isaac Wright, Samuel Fax, Ethan Fax, Maximilian Matyas, Casimir Matyas, Henry Gurholt, and Franklin Gurholt. He is further survived by his siblings, Sue (Greg) Black, Tom (Jane) Matyas, Paul (Maureen) Matyas, and Jeff (Linda) Matyas; his brother-in-law, Bob (Marcia) Klein; and many nieces and nephews.

David was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary Matyas; his mother- and father-in-law, Andrew and Emilie Klein; and his sister-in-law, Marsha McCloskey.

David will be remembered for his dedication to justice, his love of family, and the quiet pride he took in the lives and accomplishments of those he loved. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished and the many people whose lives he touched through his work and friendship.