Matthew A. Reluga, age 101, formerly of Fairmount Ave, and Afton Street, Philadelphia, passed away peacefully at Delaware Valley Veterans Home, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on December 4, 2020.
He was a proud member of the United States Army during WWII, fighting in the Battle of the Bulge. He was also the recipient of the Good Conduct Medal, Distinguished Unit Award, Bronze Star, Silver Star, American Theatre Service Medal with five bronze stars, and World War II Victory Medal. He recently received notification that he was granted the French Medal of Honor. He was employed at the Philadelphia Mint, Roxborough Glass Company, ITE Circuit Breakers Company, and Wanamakers.
Mr. Reluga was the son of Alexander Reluga and Stella (nee Lojewski). Over the years, he developed a very special bond with his great nephew and namesake, Matthew A. Moss. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, grand and great grand nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, especially his Tiffany dining buddies. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Stella (Serbun), his sister, Suzanne Wright (Reluga), and brothers, Gregory, Charles and Heinrich (aka “Hank”), and sisters-in-law Edna Moss and Mary Moss. For several years, he was taken care of by Patricia A. Lowe, a longtime friend prior to going to Delaware Valley Veterans Home.
Matt enjoyed the shore in his younger years, trips to Florida, and the casino, watching the Phillies and growing his famous tomatoes. He was interested in anything military relating to WWII. At DVVH, he became an avid bingo player and participated in many of their activities.
Mr. Reluga was a member of the Brewerytown Association and attended their luncheons on a regular basis. A highlight of his life was his membership in American Legion Post 405 and the many friends he had in the Battle of the Bulge Association. He attended monthly meetings of BOBA until February 2020.
Viewing will be held at John F Fluehr & Sons, Inc. Funeral Home, 3301 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia,PA 19149 on Wednesday, December 9, between 7:00 - 9:00 PM. Due to Covid, masks and social distancing will be required and visitation will be brief so that all may be accommodated. Funeral Mass Thursday morning December 10, 2020 10:30 AM at Resurrection of our Lord Church, Shelmire and Castor Avenues, Philadelphia, PA 19152. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, 626 Baily Road, Yeadon, Pa.
In lieu of flowers, and in light of Mr. Reluga’s passionate interest, it would be appreciated if donations are made to American Legion Post 405 (Battle of the Bulge Memorial Fund), Union League of Philadelphia, 140 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107.
