Clyde Elmer Matney, 96, formerly of Topeka, passed away Monday, May 26, 2015 in Taos, New Mexico.

He was born December 10, 1918 in Richland, Kansas, the son of Elmer Lawrence and Bernice E. (Norris) Matney. He served in the U.S. Army in the 644th Tank Destroyer Battalion during WW II and receiving a Purple Heart and five battle stars. During his war service he served in the invasion of Normandy Beach, Battle of the Bulge and central Europe.

Clyde was self-employed as owner and operator of Matney Excavating. In his retirement he was a car salesman in Topeka.

He was a member of Ozawkie Post No. 225 of American Legion and Disabled American Veterans.

Clyde married Irene Alice “Jeannie” Bartlett on February 21, 1942 in Parsons, Kansas. She preceded him in death on August 22, 2011. Survivors include a son, Gary (Jackie) Matney, Taos, NM; a daughter, Jeannie Matney, New Port Beach, CA; a daughter-in-law, Jaci Matney, Topeka; 4 grandchildren; 6 step-grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren; and a great-great-granddaughter.

He was preceded in death by a son, Danny R. Matney on February 15, 2007; a grandson, Dirk Holcomb on December 4, 2003; and two brothers, Bill and Lawrence Matney.

Clyde was an avid KU Basketball Fan, Kansas City Royals Fan and enjoyed gardening and fishing.

A graveside service with military honors by Ft. Riley Funeral Detail will be 11 a.m., Monday, June 1, 2015 at the Prairie Home Cemetery, 35th and Menoken Rd., Topeka, Kansas. Clyde will lie in state after 1 p.m., Sunday at the Parker-Price Chapel, 245 NW Independence Ave, Topeka, where the family will receive friends from 2-3 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Grace Hospice, 3715 SW 29th, Ste 100, Topeka, KS 66614 or to Taos Hospice, 1340 Maestas Rd, Ranchos De Taos, NM 87557.

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