Francis Matthys

Date of Birth

Jul 28,1944

Date of Death

Jun 07,2016

Francis “Fran” Matthys, age 71, of Byron, formerly of Elburn, passed away Tuesday evening, June 7, 2016.

He was born July 28, 1944 in St. Charles, IL, the son of Peter and Martha (Triest) Matthys.

Fran grew up in St. Charles and attended local schools. Fran found that working construction and building houses spoke to him like no other profession. His hands did his speaking for him, and eventually for others as well when eventually became co-owner of Precision Woodworking in Elburn. After twenty years of beautifying homes, he laid down his tools and entered retirement in 2004. This didn’t mean he stopped working however. He split his time continuing to work in his garage and also work on his casting, while fishing in Birchwood, WI and the Rock River.

Fran met the love of his life very early. In fact he was just fourteen when he met Darlene Jones. They were united in marriage on April 27, 1963 in St. Charles.

They began their new life together in St. Charles and continued to live at several addresses over the years, but built a home in Elburn in the early 1970’s. Their family grew to include three children. Two daughters were born into the family, one special daughter was chosen and adopted, but all of them were loved with everything Darlene and Fran had. Eventually Fran and Darlene moved to Byron, IL, and would cap off 52 years of wedded bliss and million tales (some tall, some not).

His work ethic was strong as the day was long, but he knew how to relax with some blackberry brandy in one hand a fishing rod in the other. You knew you were in trouble when you heard your name, sometimes both first and middle, followed by “come hither”. Many other sayings were shared and some aren’t necessarily fit for print, but all of them were undeniably “Fran”.

He is survived by his loving wife of fifty-two years, Darlene Matthys; Three daughters: Laura (Sean) Mahon, Sandra Matthys and Angie (Bryan) Ferguson; Five grandchildren: Jennifer (Jon Bowman) Matthys, Jacky (Andrew Kuryliw) Wanshek, Jace Pesina, Clayton Ferguson, and Miley Ferguson; two brothers: Jim (Carol) Matthys and Dick (Donna) Matthys; many nieces, nephews and a family of friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Martha Matthys.

Private family services have already been held.

Contributions can be made to the charity of your choice. Tributes may also be forwarded to the Conley Funeral Home Facebook page or you can see his full life story at www.conleycare.com.

Private family services have already been held.

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