Robert Matz

Local Beauty Business Icon and Trendsetter Dies

Robert Lee Matz, age 69 of Erie entered eternal life on Wednesday, September 23rd, 2015.

Lee was born on May 18, 1946, to the late Leo A. Matz and Mary Ann Cifolelli Soliwoda. He graduated from Salvatore’s College of Hair Styling in Sacramento, California and Orra-Jean Beauty Academy in Erie, Pennsylvania.

Lee was dedicated to advancing the beauty industry and was known for his unique talent in developing and teaching hair cutting techniques. He owned several salons and had fiercely loyal clients. He owned and operated North West Institute of Hair Design, where he educated hundreds of cosmetology students and received numerous state awards. He later directed and instructed at Toni and Guy Hairdressing Academy. Following that, he opened Lee Matz Advanced School of Hair Design and Concepts in Hair. Lee’s 50 year commitment to his craft was extraordinary and he was a source of inspiration to many.

Lee was a charismatic and beautiful human with an undeniable zest and zeal for life. He loved animals, sailing, collecting historical items, music, art, and was Central Tech football’s biggest supporter. More than anything though, he loved and cherished spending time with his family and was an incredible father to Rob and Abby. He had a natural ability to befriend all and put everybody he met at ease. He will be remembered as a true class act, an expert story teller, pleasure seeker, sharp dresser, and for the twinkle in his eyes.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his stepfather, Walter Soliwoda.

His spirit is carried on by his wife Diane Foster Matz, son Rob Matz (Erin) of Erie, daughter Abigail Matz of Erie, grandchildren: Dylan, Amber, Chloe, Reilly, Hannah, and Jordyn; his cousin Tom Clark, several sister-in-laws, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends from every walk of life.

Lee was a very spiritual person and believed all life is connected and will have an infinite spiritual existence.

Friends may call at the Burton Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 602 West 10th Street on Tuesday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. A private burial will be held at Calvary Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the ANNA Shelter, 1555 East 10th Street, Erie, PA 16511, or the Central Tech Football Boosters, at any PNC Bank.