John Eiji Matoba, (70), peacefully passed away at home on May 9, 2023. He had been suffering with ESRF for over 5 years. He had been a "Fighter" and endured dialysis but finally succumbed to the disease.

Harue Louise and John Sakae Matoba were overjoyed to welcome their first born, John Eiji on July 25, 1952 in Denver, Colorado. He was a very dutiful son to our beloved Mother. Our Mother always said that as a baby, he could only be with her and would drive the babysitters crazy until she would be home with him again. Her favorite saying— "He is like a bull in a China shop!" He walks past and things would fall off the shelf. John had great LOVE and respect for our mother.

John attended Westminster High School and forged a great friendship with John Herlevich and Eric Smith. This trio had retained their friendship throughout his life for over 50 years. Patrick Haley had been a very supportive and great friend over the past 30 years and John had been so grateful for these friends!

In 1983, John discovered another great love when he became a City of Thornton Firefighter and Paramedic. He loved his JOB! During his 33 years' career, he devoted all his energy into working and helping his fellow firefighters.

John is survived by two sisters, Joyce Phoonswadi (Mike Byanski), and Lou Ann McCoy (Mike L. McCoy), a niece Tarinee Pefley (Everett), two nephews, Andy and Taylor McCoy, four great nephews; Finn, Wyatt, Sawyer and Ellis Pefley. He is also survived by his cousins from the Miyake family.

A Reception will be held on Tuesday, June 30, 2023 at 10:45 AM  at Olinger Highland Mortuary, 10201 Grant Street, Thornton, 80229.