Harriet Matz

Harriet Matz, a lifelong resident of Harlingen, Texas was born September 12, 1946 and passed away to join the Lord and her boys April 9, 2018.

She was predeceased by her parents Frank Ernest Matz, Sr. and Pearl Prenzler Matz; sons Robert Thomas “Tom” Hamilton & Lawrence Eugene “Weener” Hamilton; sister and brother-in-law Marianne Matz Brons and Thomas Richard Brons; and brother-in-law Glenn Edwin Meyer.

Harriet is survived by her daughter Kim Emsely; brother Frank E.  Matz, Jr. and wife Linda; sister Cara Lynn Pearson; aunts Mary Tanberg Matz and Evangleine Prenzler Neese; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Harriet led an interesting roller coaster life.  You never knew what to expect from her or where you may find her next, but rest assured she would have a smile and those of us who knew and loved her will never forget her sense of humor and quick wit.  Many will remember when she managed Richard’s Lounge and Valley Palms Nursery ( she loved a beautiful yard); operated Koffee Klatch in Harlingen, ran Richard’s Airways, the only restaurant in the Harlingen airport; managed El Camino Real Mobile Home Park in San Benito.  She was a lifelong Elks Lodge member.  Life dealt her a heavy blow with the loss of both of her beloved boys.  The last few years have been difficult as her health failed, but she still brought sunshine where ever she happened to be.

The family would like to express a special thank-you to her two nieces Chris and Penni who made her care in the years leading to her final months an integral part of their lives.  We would also like to extend gratitude to Cano Assisted Living Homes and staff, notably Tracy Cuba, for the care she received during her last few months.

A celebration of Harriet’s life will be held at Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home in Harlingen, Wednesday, April 18th, at 2:00 p.m.

If you would like to show your love for Harriet, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, you give a gift to the Harlingen Humane Society, 1106 Markowsky Ave., Harlingen, Texas 78550, recognizing her love for dogs or to the charity of your choice.