Charles (Chuck) Clinton "Chuck" Matteson, Jr. Jr.

Charles (Chuck) Clinton Matteson, Jr. of Southport, CT, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 from a heart attack. His was a life lived to the fullest, marked by an impressive spirit that touched everyone he met, remarkable generosity, cherished friendships that spanned the globe, and an enduring passion for sailing.

Chuck was born in Waukegan, IL, to Charles Clinton Matteson, Sr. and Hope Scott Thalman Matteson. As a child, his family moved to Harrisburg, PA, a place he always held dear as his "second home." He proudly graduated with a B.S. in Business from Penn State University in 1966, remaining a fiercely loyal alumnus and an enthusiastic sports fan throughout his entire life.

He started his career with IBM in Washington, D.C., where he also served in the National Guard. However, Chuck's innate business development and entrepreneurial spirit quickly took hold. He moved to New York City, where he was fortunate enough to meet and marry the love of his life, Patricia Ely Matteson, in 1970. Their journey took them from Manhattan to New Jersey, eventually settling in Southport, where they built a life together for almost 50 wonderful years.

Chuck's career was as dynamic as he was. He became a consultant for Great Eastern Development, playing a pivotal role in fostering trade with China. His dedication led to 46 trips to China, a testament to the lifelong friendships he forged there. He then channeled that experience into owning and operating 17 Nutri-System Weight stores. Ever the innovator, he pivoted again to found Spinnaker Capital Partners, a small private equity firm, where he served as Managing Partner. His investments also saw him as President of Thomas Equipment in New Brunswick, Canada, and he contributed his expertise to the Board of Briazz from Seattle, WA.

Even in retirement, Chuck's zest for life didn't wane, especially when it came to his beloved sailing. He was on the water an astonishing 10 months out of the year, braving the chill for Frost Biting in the fall and winter, and enjoying competitive One Design racing in the summer. You could usually find him navigating the familiar waters of Southport Harbor and Long Island Sound, only fully stopping when his legs and balance finally weakened.

Chuck was, above all, a genuinely generous friend. He opened his home and heart to countless friends, their children, and family members who needed a place to stay, sometimes for months on end. He possessed a wonderful sense of humor and was always the life of the party, a popular dinner guest with a fascinating story for every occasion. More often than not, Chuck was the last one to leave, soaking in every moment of connection. He found great camaraderie and joy in the Southport Congregational Church's men's group, eagerly anticipating every meeting. Chuck's many passions were wide-ranging, including world geography, 20th-century history (especially World War I), Jeopardy, and a deep love for sports-from the Red Sox and Philly Flyers to Women's College Basketball (particularly UConn) and Big Ten College Football. And, of course, he always enjoyed a good Chinese meal, particularly dumplings and Peking duck.

Chuck was a man with deep roots, a descendant of Samuel Butts, a co-founder of Canterbury, CT, and for whom the Butts Bridge was named. He was also a direct descendant of Joel Aldrich Matteson, Governor of Illinois in the 1850s, after whom Matteson, Illinois, proudly bears its name.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia Ely Matteson of Southport, CT; his sister-in-law, Carol Matteson of Stamford, CT; his niece, Leslie Matteson Williamson (Rob), and their son, Jack, of Stamford, CT; and his nephew, John Matteson, Jr. (Charlene), and their children Charles, Janine, Peter, and Alexander of Windermere, Florida.

Chuck was predeceased by his father, Charles Clinton Matteson, Sr., his mother, Hope Matteson Fendrich, his stepfather, Nelson Fendrich, and his brother, John Matteson, Sr.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Chuck's life will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at Southport Congregational Church, with a reception to follow. For those unable to attend, streaming of the service will also be available.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Chuck's name to the Pequot Yacht Club Foundation at 669 Harbor Road, Southport, CT 06890 or to Southport Congregational Church at 524 Pequot Avenue, Southport, CT 06890.