Edward P. De Matei Jr.

July 13, 1933 - February 5, 2023

“We’re only here for a short time” was one of Edward’s often spoken comments.

Ed lived well during his “short” 89 years. Born in San Francisco to Marguerite and Edward De Matei, he was a lifelong resident of Millbrae.

Ed met his wife of sixty-six years, Diane, while attending Burlingame High School. As Diane’s maiden name was also Demattei, they were destined to meet and spend the rest of their lives together. After graduating from the University of California, Berkeley, Ed served in the Army at Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indiana.

Upon returning home, Ed continued to be a huge Cal Bear Backer and raised his three children to follow the Blue and Gold. Rarely missing a football game, Big Game rivalries between Cal and Stanford made for especially spirited friend and family gatherings.

He was also an original 49er Faithful, attending games from the Kesar Stadium days until the final Niner game at Candlestick Park. Game day tailgate parties were something he enjoyed planning. A business/salesman by trade, Ed eventually owned his own wholesale electrical supply company - National Electric - and made many lifelong friends through his years in the industry.

Ed and Diane also owned ranch land near the small delta town of Isleton, splitting each week/weekend between “The Ranch” and their Millbrae home. As a form of relaxation, Ed renovated multiple buildings on the ranch property and enjoyed many family waterski weekends on the delta rivers.

Ed is survived by his wife Diane, children Liz Knight (Kerry), Edward De Matei

(Lanette), Joseph De Matei (Andrew Lammes); grandchildren Tony De Matei (Lyndsay), Renee Trojan (Louie), Rachel De Matei, Lia De Matei, Brady Knight, and Parker Knight; great grandchildren Madison De Matei and Harper Trojan; sister and brother in law, Lois and Nate Agresti, sister-in-law Lillian Balliet, as well as Agresti and Balliet nieces and nephews.

The family was stunned by a diagnosis of Leukemia in early January but are thankful for the final gift of time they could share with Ed. He would remind everyone to “Go do it now!” when it comes to experiencing life.

Edward will be remembered for his outgoing personality, his generous and providing nature, and his ability to throw some outstanding parties!

Visitation will be at Chapel of the Highlands in Millbrae. Friday, February 10, 2023, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Lunch reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: www. stjude.org/donate

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation: www.cff.org/donate