Leon Eugene Mattics

I always looked forward to seeing Leon at the Port City Pacer races. I was always friendly and smiling. Leon loved to compete and usually won his age division. When Leon picked up his award at the end of the race, there was always a big applause because everyone loved him.

Professor Mattics made a profound impression on me as a calculus student in the early 1970´s. He was always lucid in his presentation of difficult concepts in mathematics, relying heavily on practical applications to explain abstract concepts. In a sense, he was a role model for me as a college professor. I am saddened by his passing, and I want to express my condolences to his family.

I think of Leon often, especially at local road races. He and Jean were always there, he running and then both of them volunteering. Leon was always smiling and had good things to say about everyone. Carol (Sealy) Cowan

Dr. Mattics was my favorite professor when I attended USA in the late 70s. I have fond memories of taking Calculus from him and the many pieces of chalk that broke as he wrote on the blackboard with so much enthusiasm. Enjoyed talking with him about living on a small farm and hearing how much he enjoyed that part of his life. In 1980, I named my first cat Leon in his honor.

Leon Mattics was one of my professors at USA when I was working on my BS in math in the early '80s. Moreso, he was a wonderful friend! He taught me so much, not only about math, but life values in general. It would take volumes to share all the memories and stories I have of Leon from my undergraduate days. He will certainly be missed by me and countless others. He touched so many hearts and minds throughout his 80 year journey here among us.

My condolences to Jean and the Mattics...

Dr. Mattics was my faculty advisor during the mid-70s, and I took several of his classes. One of my favorite professors. After graduation, I ran some road races, and seeing and chatting with him was always a bonus. My sympathies to the family.

I would like to express my sympathy to the family of Dr. Mattics. He was a great teacher. I took as many classes as I could under him, and appreciated his love of math. He was also a kind person. I regret his pasing.

Four things I will always remember about Dr. Mattics:
1. He never forgot a student's name, even year's later.
2. Never disturb him outside of office hours; he will be busy doing
MATHEMATICS !!!!! (And, he made a point of telling you so.)
3. Always pay attention in class because you never knew when he'd be
overcome with excitement about a math problem and jump right in
front of you.
4. Why use a chalk eraser when its faster to use...