Richard Henry Mattern, Jr.

Richard Henry Mattern, Jr. obituary, Saratoga, CA

Richard Henry Mattern, Jr.

Richard Mattern, Jr. Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Apr. 14, 2024.
Richard "Dick" H. Mattern, Jr. (June 15, 1937 - March 23, 2024) passed away peacefully in Saratoga, California.

Born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, Dick embodied the resilience and hardworking spirit of the Steel City. His early life was a testament to his determination and intellectual prowess, which led him to earn a B.A. in Economics and a Masters degree from the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs (magna cum laude for both) at the University of Pittsburgh. There, he excelled academically, representing the University on the Debate team. He had the opportunity to travel to Norway and the Soviet Union during the Cold War to further his educational pursuits through university sponsorship. He also spent a summer with a select group of students with the Encampment for Citizenship supported by Eleanor D. Roosevelt. He was awarded the university's "Senior Award" for outstanding collegiate leadership and scholarship, a distinction that resulted in his name being engraved on a walkway on university grounds. He graduated with first class honors, a Phi Beta Kappa distinction - a precursor to the illustrious career that would follow.

His professional journey began at IBM, where he dedicated 34 years of his life rising to the ranks of Executive Vice President. During his tenure, he was not just an employee but a visionary who contributed significantly to the technological advancements and successful release of, among many other transformative developments, printer innovations. His work ethic, creativity, and leadership skills were unparalleled, making him a highly respected figure among his peers.

After a fulfilling career at IBM, he embarked on a new chapter with ROLM where he led marketing for several more years. He ended his professional career at Siemens. His contributions during this period were instrumental in propelling the companies forward, showcasing his unwavering commitment to excellence in every endeavor.

Dick was a loving husband and family man, a loyal friend, and a pillar of his community. He filled his spare time reading and adding to his vast knowledge of art, music, history, and architecture. Along with an impressive memory, this made him quite literally a walking encyclopedia of information. His huge collection of books filling numerous bookshelves reflect these passions. He constantly inspired his children and his mentees to find their own passions in life to ensure they had meaningful interests and interactions.

Finally, Dick may be remembered most for his quick wit. His sense of humor brought levity to meetings, entertained friends during cocktail hours and dinner parties, and enlivened the speeches he gave throughout his professional and personal life.

His legacy is not just in the homes he self-designed, but also in the lives he touched, the people he inspired, and the steadfast love and support he provided to those around him. As we bid farewell to a truly remarkable man, we celebrate his life, his achievements, and the countless ways he enriched each of us and our world. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

He leaves behind a devoted wife of 56 years Ruth Mattern, two daughters Kirsten Esquivel and Britt Mattern Gallagher and their respective spouses Michael Esquivel and John Gallagher, along with six grandchildren: Vanessa Esquivel, Andrew Esquivel, Keira Esquivel, Áine Gallagher, Cora Gallagher, and Finn Gallagher.

A Celebration of Life for Dick will be held at the Los Altos Golf and Country Club on Sunday, May 5, 2024, at 1 PM, in Los Altos, CA.

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December 10, 2024

Bill & Kathy Cleary posted to the memorial.

May 6, 2024

Tom Gillum and Family planted trees.

May 2, 2024

Traute Jan Tobias Alena Leinen planted trees.

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Bill & Kathy Cleary

December 10, 2024

Our deepest condolences to the family from The Cleary family on Montalvo Hts Dr in Saratoga

We just saw the obituary today 12/10/24.

We loved Dick and Ruth and the whole family. We have many fond memories of Dick and his wonderful quick sense of humor and his beautiful spirit.

Bill and Kathy Cleary

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Tom Gillum and Family

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Sign Richard Mattern, Jr.'s Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

December 10, 2024

Bill & Kathy Cleary posted to the memorial.

May 6, 2024

Tom Gillum and Family planted trees.

May 2, 2024

Traute Jan Tobias Alena Leinen planted trees.