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BORN
1932
DIED
2023
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William Matts Obituary
January 27, 1932 - February 13, 2023
Fresno, California - Retired Fresno Fire Captain William "Bill" Edward Matts passed away on February 13, 2023 from kidney/heart failure. Bill was born on January 27, 1932 in Sand Springs, OK, to Bessie Tow and William E. Matts, joining two sisters Betty and Lois. In 1946 he moved to California with his mom and stepdad.
After graduation from Fresno Technical High School in 1950, Bill joined the Air Force January 1951. Serving during the Korean War, he was trained in photography and assigned to Kirkland AFB in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He returned to Fresno for his high school sweetheart, Patricia Crew, and they were married January 5, 1952.
Completing his service in 1954, Bill worked for the Fresno Bee, the State Division of Forestry and finally his dream job as a Fresno City Firefighter, (1958-1987) promoting to Engineer, Arson Investigator and Captain.
Bill enjoyed many skills from fixing cars to home construction. Following retirement, he enjoyed working with his sons, Brad and Bryan, at Matts X-Ray Service.
Bill loved his job as a firefighter. He loved to ride dirt bikes in the desert, 4-wheel off-road in Quartzsite, AZ., and travel in his motorhome. Above all, Bill was devoted to his family and friends.
Bill is survived by children Susan (Kirk) Sorensen and William Brad (Lisa) Matts. Grandchildren: Kirstin (Brett) Spencer; Kasey (Teresa) Sorensen; Kyle (Sarah) Sorensen; Shay (Katie) Matts; Kristen (Ryan) Stollmeyer. 12 Great-grandchildren, Sister: Lois Henricks. Brother: Floyd "Eddie" Matts. Nieces and Nephews. Preceded in death by wife: Patricia; 2nd wife Charlotte; son: Bryan Edward Matts; Sister: Betty Jones. Funeral details at Lisle Funeral Home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Matts
Val Szot
February 27, 2023
Our condolences to Bill's family. Bill was a good friend both on and off the job. He was always upbeat and fun to be around. Due to illness we can't make it to the funeral.
Jeff & Robin Bolin
February 26, 2023
Jeff & Robin Bolin
February 26, 2023
Jeff & Robin Bolin
February 26, 2023
Jeff & Robin Bolin
February 26, 2023
Jeff & Robin Bolin
February 26, 2023
In Loving Memory....
We will always hold fond memories in our hearts of the times we spent together with Love.
Jeff & Robin, Christopher, Alex, Violet & Jagger Bolin
Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results
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