James L. Matteson, a man of unwavering passion and selfless kindness, passed away January 26, 2024. He was born June 14, 1943 to Hendly and Elsie (Johnson) Matteson.
James proudly served his country as a member of the United Sates Army during the Vietnam War, a testament to his courage and dedication.
After his military service, he continued his life of service with the Illinois State Police. He graduated from the Academy November 18, 1968 and was assigned to District 5 Joliet. He retired January 31, 1993 after a distinguished career.
His commitment to his community was further demonstrated through his active involvement on the Board of the Village of Mazon and the Mazon Fire Department, where his insights and contributions were invaluable.
An avid sportsman, James was a member of the Amateur Trapshooting Association, where his enthusiasm for the sport was infectious. His love for trapshooting was only matched by his love for his family and friends, and the camaraderie he shared with fellow enthusiasts will be deeply missed. He also loved and looked forward to Poker at Narvick's Hunt Club every Thursday night with his pals John, Sajj, Ray and Jeff.
James's life was a shining example of what it means to live with a generous heart. His selflessness was seen in every aspect of his life, from the way he raised his family, to the way he served his community and country. He was the kind of man who would always lend a helping hand, who would listen with empathy, and whose guidance was sought by many.
James's legacy is carried on by his beloved wife Ginny, his cherished children, Karyn (Brent) Nurney of Richmond, Virginia, Deanna Matteson of Elizabeth City, North Carolina, Mike (Debbie) Vota of Mazon, Chris Vota of Austin, Texas and Patrick (Char) Vota of Mazon. Also surviving are his adored grandchildren; Trya Gutierrez, Matteson Nurney, Zachary Nurney, Jacob Vota, Ginny Vota, and Wyatt Vota. His memory will be forever held in the heart of his great-grandson, Michael Vota; his special niece, Julie Thompson of Morris as well as numerous other nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his brother, Dave (Candy) Matteson of Kadiz, Kentucky.
James was preceded in death by his father, Hendley and his mother, Elsie; brother, John, and sisters, Carol, Nancy and Kay. He now joins them in peace, leaving behind a legacy of love and integrity that will continue to inspire those who knew him.
A visitation for James' will be held on Thursday, February 1, 2024, from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. There will be Military Honors presented at 3:00 pm. There will be a private family service following the Military Honors.
Arrangements entrusted to U.C. Davis-Callahan Funeral Home, 301 W. Washington Street, Morris.
James L. Matteson, a man of unwavering passion and selfless kindness, passed away January 26, 2024. He was born June 14, 1943 to Hendly and Elsie (Johnson) Matteson.
James proudly served his country as a member of the United Sates Army during the Vietnam War, a testament to his courage and dedication.
After his military service, he continued his life of service with the Illinois State Police. He graduated from the Academy November 18, 1968 and was assigned to District 5 Joliet. He retired January 31, 1993 after a distinguished career.
His commitment to his community was further demonstrated through his active involvement on the Board of the Village of Mazon and the Mazon Fire Department, where his insights and contributions were invaluable.
An avid sportsman, James was a member of the Amateur Trapshooting Association, where his enthusiasm for the sport was infectious. His love for trapshooting was only matched by his love for his family and friends, and the camaraderie he shared with fellow enthusiasts will be deeply missed. He also loved and looked forward to Poker at Narvick's Hunt Club every Thursday night with his pals John, Sajj, Ray and Jeff.
James's life was a shining example of what it means to live with a generous heart. His selflessness was seen in every aspect of his life, from the way he raised his family, to the way he served his community and country. He was the kind of man who would always lend a helping hand, who would listen with empathy, and whose guidance was sought by many.
James's legacy is carried on by his beloved wife Ginny, his cherished children, Karyn (Brent) Nurney of Richmond, Virginia, Deanna Matteson of Elizabeth City, North Carolina, Mike (Debbie) Vota of Mazon, Chris Vota of Austin, Texas and Patrick (Char) Vota of Mazon. Also surviving are his adored grandchildren; Trya Gutierrez, Matteson Nurney, Zachary Nurney, Jacob Vota, Ginny Vota, and Wyatt Vota. His memory will be forever held in the heart of his great-grandson, Michael Vota; his special niece, Julie Thompson of Morris as well as numerous other nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his brother, Dave (Candy) Matteson of Kadiz, Kentucky.
James was preceded in death by his father, Hendley and his mother, Elsie; brother, John, and sisters, Carol, Nancy and Kay. He now joins them in peace, leaving behind a legacy of love and integrity that will continue to inspire those who knew him.
A visitation for James' will be held on Thursday, February 1, 2024, from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. There will be Military Honors presented at 3:00 pm. There will be a private family service following the Military Honors.
Arrangements entrusted to U.C. Davis-Callahan Funeral Home, 301 W. Washington Street, Morris.
