Mathias Enock Worou, 43 of Valparaiso, passed away on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. He was born on May 14, 1982 in Benin, Africa, the son of Enock and Lydia (Conde) Worou. Mathias was very proud of his education in 2014 he earned an Associate’s in Art from Truman college, Chicago, IL, 2017 completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Art from DePaul University, Chicago IL, 2019 finished his Master’s Degree in Applied professional studies from DePaul University, Chicago IL, and in 2020 he enrolled in PhD program at college of Education with concentration in leadership in higher education. Mathias was currently working as a youth care specialist with Heartland Alliance, where he helped place children in caring homes. He was a huge soccer fan, cheering for Chelsea, and enjoying playing soccer on the weekends with his friends. When he wasn’t watching or playing soccer, you could find him dancing and enjoying life. Mathias was very community oriented and will be missed for his helping and caring personality, and full of life energy that he shared with so many.
On April 2, 2024, Mathias married Jacqueline “Jackie” Malama who survives along with his mother, Lydia Worou; son, Daniel Worou; former wife, Cornelia Lynn Worou; stepdaughter, Natasha Mapoma; siblings, Orou Jeannette, Worou Benjamin, Worou Geremi, Worou Salome, Worou Lea, and Worou Fousseni; sister-in-law, Sharon Malama; friends, Emmanuel Chibale, Ousman Ngana, Kodjo Setondji, and Anthony Francisco; and many extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Enock.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at Moeller Funeral Home 104 Roosevelt Rd., Valparaiso, with a Funeral Service beginning at 12:00 PM. Burial will follow at Angelcrest Cemetery, Valparaiso.
GUESTBOOK
Deepest condolences to Martia's family May the souls of the faithful departed through the Mercy of Christ rest in God's Glory. -Mwango Chinene
Losing a spouse is something that no one can come to terms with. I truly understand the pain that you are going through dear Jackie. All I can ask for is God's comforting mercies to locate you and give you strength. May his soul rest in God's eternal peace. -Regina Dowty
May your Soul Rest in Peace my friend and I pray to the Almighty God to sustain your family both home and abroad and for God to give everyone family members you left behind the fortitude to bear the great loss. -Tijani Ayegbusi
Life is as such; we planned and hoped for a better tomorrow that will never come. Nevertheless, we must always keep in touch with our root and family as in every journey; going back is the essence of traveling. We will miss you dearly. May He rest in perfect peace. -Elias and Louise Quist
Praying for you my sister Jackie as you mourn the loss of your dear husband. Also extending my heartfelt condolences to Mathias mother, children and sibblings. May you all find peace and comfort through Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. For he his our greatest comforter and healer. May the beautiful soul of our departed rest in external peace. -Nancy Nasilele Imasiku
To Jackie, A wife is always giving, always working and always smiling. The years of joy that you brought to Mathias will never be forgotten. To all other Family and Friends of Mathias, May the Lord comfort your hearts and help you throughout this difficult time of grief. May the good memories sustain and heal you. -Corrie Worou
My deepest sympathy to you sister Jackie and family on the loss of your husband. May the almighty God grant you sister Jackie and the entire family strength and comfort during this difficult time. Mhsriep -Rosemary Mulenga
My Brother Mathias...I don't have a word to say how much we already missed you. we love you a lot, rest in peace, we will pray for you and never forget you. my condolences to the all family. -Bouba Teoudoussia
Jackie, no one or any words will ever console you. You are going to take it day by day. You will heal in your own time. May the creator grant you grace, peace and courage to overcome the pain. Remember to kneel and pray always…… you are in my prayers. Bless you, -Vivian z Ossani
You brought so much love to everyone around you, and that will never be forgotten. You are deeply missed. Rest well, my dear friend. I am praying for God to comfort your wife, son, and family during this time. -Adeola Elegbe
I am heartbroken to hear of his passing and I offer my deepest condolences to his family, especially his son and mother. He was a determined and hardworking man who valued education and constantly encouraged others to become the best version of themselves. He played a meaningful role in my life and pushed me to continue my nursing journey—something I will honor in his memory. He will always be remembered with love and respect. May he rest peacefully. I LOVE YOU AND I MISS YOU. -Eve K
