Obituary of James O. Mathias, Sr.

James Orren Mathias, Sr. 77, of New Boston, Illinois passed away January 11, 2019 surrounded by his loved ones.  A celebration of life will be held Sunday, January 20, 2019 at 12:00 p.m at the Fruitland Community Center.  Burial will take place at a later date at Island Cemetery.  A memorial has been established for the family in memory of James Sr.  Sympathy notes may be left for the family at www.lewisfuneralhomes.com.  The Geo. M. Wittich-Lewis Home for Funeral and Cremation Services are caring for James Sr.’s arrangements and his family. 

James Orren Mathias Sr. was born on July 6, 1941 in Muscatine, Iowa, to Ora and Betty (Reynolds) Mathias He married Mary Starkweather on July 4, 1960 and together they shared 57 years of marriage.  James Sr. worked for Huttig, Keller Ladders and retired from Bandag Inc.  He served for the Army Reserves in 1958-1966.  He volunteered for the Boys Scouts of America for 35 years.  James Sr. earned the Silver Beaver award, as well as Vigil Brotherhood award.  He was a two time Wood Badge recipient.  James Sr. also severed with Muscatine Search and Rescue and was captain for one year.  He was a member of the Woodmen of the World, Lions Club and Masons.  James Sr. loved the outdoors, spending time with his Buckskinner friends.  He loved working on cars.  Enjoyed working on Indian lore and leather crafts.  He enjoyed canoeing camping, fishing and hunting.  He especially loved the time spent with his family.  He had a passion for mentoring young and old through life experiences. 

James Sr. is survived by the love of his life, Mary Mathias; children, Teresa (Dave) Wargo, Tina (Brian) Hammer, Trina (Ron) Goodwin, James Jr. (Carie) Mathias, Tracy (Scott) Cole and Shane Mathias; grandchildren include, Nick, Kyle, Jamie, Rachel, Nathan, Kodi, Kalvin, Alyx, Meyalli, Nichole, Samuel, Edik, Logan, Shane Jr. and Anthony; several great-grandchildren and siblings, Robert (Joyce) Mathias, Bill Adcock, Judy Mathias and Richard Holiday.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ora Mathias; mother, Betty Mathias Terry and one brother, Everett Adcock.