Robert E. Mattner Of Ship Bottom Dies At 81

Courtesy of Bugbee-Riggs Funeral Home:

Robert E. Mattner, 81, a longtime resident of Ship Bottom, passed away on Saturday, April 2, 2016.

Born and raised in Englewood, NJ, Mr. Mattner graduated from Dwight Morrow High School and enlisted in the U.S. Army during Korean War. Upon discharge, Bob worked with his father and brother in the family residential tile business. In 1956, after a successful first date at Radio City Music Hall, he married Evelyn Resch, and they settled in Park Ridge, NJ raising six children.

The Mattner family moved to Ship Bottom in 1973, and Bob developed a successful career in real estate before starting REM Services with Evelyn providing commercial engraving to an ever growing national clientele. This business operated for 36 years on Long Beach Island.

Bob enjoyed raising his family, the beach and the water, cruising warm climates, and frequenting Atlantic City. Spending time with his children and grandchildren brought him the greatest happiness. More than 60 family members attended his 80th birthday celebration in February 2015.

Mr. Mattner was predeceased by his wife of 33 years, Evelyn in 1996 and his brother, Alfred H. O. Mattner in 2001. Surviving are his son, Gregg; son, Darin and his wife, Rose; daughter Heidi Mattner and her husband Russ Pritchard; daughter Denise Salita and her husband, Conrad; and sons, Keith and Kevin. Also surviving are his sister, Elizabeth Buck and her husband Frank; Bob's devoted partner of 18 years, Sandy Medford, and her children, Brian Medford and his wife Stacy; Beth Humphries and her husband, John; and 19 grandchildren.

Viewings will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 6, 2016 and from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Thursday at the Bugbee-Riggs Funeral Home on 12th Street and Long Beach Boulevard inShip Bottom.. A Memorial Service will follow at 11 a.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church, Central Avenue in Barnegat Light. Inurnment will be held at Ocean County Memorial Park, Toms River at a later date.