William G Matteson

William G. Matteson, 87, of Harvard, IL passed away at his home on October 29, 2023.

He was born on February 11, 1936 in Rockford, IL to Edwin and Thelma Matteson. 

As a young child, Bill lived in Kingman, Kansas where his father was a cook with the Civilian Conservation Corps.  Moving to the Uptown Neighborhood of Chicago at about 7, Bill became a paperboy and befriended the girl next door, Eileen Griffin.  The day after her 15th birthday, he asked her to “go steady”. The two were married at St Benedicts Church in Chicago on September 3, 1955.

Bill was often referred to as “the smartest man I know”, so it may surprise some that he dropped out of school at 16 and began his career in the printing industry from which he retired at age 72.  He was an avid reader and lifelong learner, working his way up to plant manager and salesman. He was well respected, having lifetime friends from “the trade”.

A strong Republican and 2nd Amendment supporter, Bill volunteered his time in various capacities and carried the nickname “Captain America”. He often shared stories of his family’s military service in the United States going back to King Phillips War.  He was proud of his father’s service in WWI and his grandfather’s service in the Civil War. Bill was most proud of the service of his sons (2 Army and 1 McHenry County Deputy) and grandsons (1 Navy, 7 Army). Flags could be seen prominently displayed at his home any day of the week.

Bill was a humble and spiritual man who gained his sobriety on June 4, 1983. His 41 years of sobriety served as a cornerstone for countless others, his bible and a pot of coffee at the ready.  He was quick with a joke, a firm handshake and never met a stranger.  He volunteered his time for the Illinois Freedom Run Memorial for Middle East Conflict, called Bingo for St Joe’s and couldn’t eat enough donuts from Swiss Maid Bakery. If he wasn’t playing guitar, he could be found making holsters, bullets, bowstrings, arrows, conversation and watching classic scary movies.

He is survived by his children Helen Matteson, Mary Matteson, Sharon Parker, Mark Matteson, Tim (Cyndi) Matteson, Steve (Pam) Matteson, Peg (Mark Freiman) Matteson, Rachel (Jason) Heaver, Dan Matteson, 23 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild. We would also like to mention his dear friends, Don and Shirley Blazer.

William was preceded in death by his beloved wife, parents, sisters (Edwina, Lucille and Beatrice), a son in law (Bryce Parker) and a grandson (Bryce Parker Jr.).

Bill’s unconditional love for his family is truly his greatest legacy. To quote a good pal, “You are stardust, my friend”. 

In accordance with William’s wishes, there will be no services.

Friend and family may sign the online guestbook at www.saundersmcfarlin.net

For more information, please call Saunders & McFarlin at (815) 943-5400.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.