Matthew Martin La Salle, born April 12, 1915, in Chicago Heights, Illinois, to Michael and Concetta LaSalle, after they immigrated from Italy. He moved to Oakland, making his home in Lakeport in 1957, starting his own plumbing business, LaSalle Plumbing. He sold the business in 1978 which still carries his name.
He was a veteran of World War II, serving as a Staff Sergeant in the Army Air Corp. Three of those years were spent doing combat service in Europe with the 307th Fighter Squadron. They were the first U.S. fighter group arriving in England in June 1942. They also became the first fighter group using the new “Spitfire” aircraft. He personally landed on the beachhead in North Africa, Sicily, Salamo and Anzio, Italy.
He received numerous citations and medals including 14 Bronze Battle Stars, The Presidential Unit Citation with oak-leaf cluster and Bronze Arrowhead. On Dec. 11, 1994, he received the “Malta George Cross” from the Malta government, and on Feb. 5, 1997, he received from President Boris Yeltsin of the Russian government the “Commemorative Medal” depicting the 50th Anniversary of the “The Great Patriotic War”, World War II. He enjoyed revisiting foreign sights after the war with his fellow comrades.
Matt was a past Post Commander of VFW Post 2015 in Lakeport. He was a 30-year member, director and past treasurer of the Lakeport Lions Club and a past member of the Lakeport Chamber of Commerce. He was a charter member of the California State Sheriff”s Association and a former member of the American Security Council.
Matthew was a single man, who was preceded in death by his parents and siblings.
There will be a short viewing at Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary from 9:30 to 10 a.m. July 12, prior to a graveside service at Hartley Cemetery at 11 a.m. conducted by the VA with full military honors.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Lakeport Skilled Nursing Center Activity Fund.
The family wishes to thank all the individuals who contributed to the care of our uncle Matt LaSalle.
For futher information call Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 263-0357 or 994-5611, or visit them at www.chapelofthelakes.com.
Please sign the guest book at www.record-bee.com.
(Published in the Lake County Record-Bee on Tuesday, July 11, 2006.)
