Harry Lawrence Matoushek, 75, of Ballwin, passed away on May 16, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of collections, hobbies, a cat, and people who loved him dearly.

Harry was born to Lawrence and Melva Matoushek, both of whom preceded him in death. He is survived by his beloved wife and soulmate, Linda Marie Matoushek (née Ottersbach); his daughter, Elizabeth Suzanne Matoushek; and his sister, Catherine Gerhart.

Raised in South St. Louis City, Harry attended Our Lady of Sorrows Grade School before graduating from Bishop DuBourg High School in 1968. While working at a factory, he met Gertrude Matoushek (née Ejchler), and together they welcomed their only child, Elizabeth. Though life took them in different directions, Harry and Gert remained friends. Harry later found the love of his life in Linda, whom he married in 1991. To say he adored her would be an understatement. Harry worshipped the ground Linda walked on and remained hopelessly devoted to her for the rest of his life.

Harry was endlessly proud of his daughter, whom he affectionately called Shoo Shoo from the time she was born, saying she was small enough to fit inside one of his shoe boxes. Granted, at 6'5", that may not have been quite the accomplishment he made it out to be, but he told the story proudly for decades anyway.

Harry spent most of his working life in security, primarily as an armored car courier, a job he took tremendous pride in. He valued the importance and responsibility of the work, and carried countless stories from his years on the job. Some of his closest friendships were formed alongside the coworkers he met throughout those years.

Harry rarely met a hobby he didn't like. An avid fisherman, he also spent decades enthusiastically collecting trains, toy cars and trucks, soldier and bagpipe figurines, coins, currency, and just about anything else that caught his attention. If it could be displayed on a shelf or tucked into a lighted display case, Harry probably collected it.

He was a proud member of the International Association of Jim Beam Bottle Collectors, despite not actually drinking. For Harry, it wasn't just about the bourbon. It was about the people, the camaraderie, and, naturally, the opportunity to collect even more things.

Harry also had a deep love for cats and spoiled every one he collected through the famous "cat distribution system." He especially enjoyed giving them unforgettable names, including the legendary Monkeyface. In his later years, he could often be found happily sharing AI-generated cat videos on Facebook, watching homesteaders on YouTube, or enthusiastically explaining one of his many interests to anyone who'd listen, even if they'd already heard it.

His family finds peace in believing he is now reunited in Heaven with loved ones and cats who passed before him. He is most likely spending his time sharing stories, casting a fishing line, and keeping watch over everyone, all while YouTube videos play entirely too loud in the background. He will be deeply missed, and fondly remembered with countless stories, laughter, and love.

Services: Visitation at the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, Thursday, May 21st from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m. Interment at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to de Greef Hospice House and Mercy South Hospice . Friends may sign the family's on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.