James R. "Jim" Van Matre Jr.

Name: Visitation
Start: 01/31/2024 05:00 PM
End: 01/31/2024 08:00 PM
Location: Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home

April 7, 1962 — January 26, 2024

James R. “Jim” Van Matre Jr., 61, of La Place, IL., passed away on January 26, 2024.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 31, 2024 from 5:00 – 8:00 PM at Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home in Decatur, IL. Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, February 1, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home in Decatur, IL. Burial will be held at La Place Cemetery.

Jim was born on April 7, 1962 in Decatur, IL, to James R. Van Matre Sr. and Karen K. (Hirsch) Van Matre. The oldest of three boys Jim was a natural born leader and an inspiration to all those around him. Jim was a graduate of Cerro Gordo High School, Class of 1980. He fell in love with Donna Wells and they married on March, 18, 1982. She was his best friend and the love of his life. Jim and Donna raised three children- Heather (Champion), Holly Van Matre, and Jacob Van Matre. He was the best dad and friend in the world and was there for anyone who needed him day or night. Jim served the Cerro Gordo School District for 28 years during that time he touched the lives of generations of students. He endeavored to treat everyone with love and everyone who knew him felt that love. Jim was a prankster and took great joy from bringing smiles to those around him. His antics will live on in the hearts of those he knew and loved.

Jim is survived by his mother, Karen K. Van Matre; his loving wife, Donna Van Matre; 3 children: Heather Champion (Jesse), Holly Van Matre (Clint Paradee), and Jacob Van Matre (Katie Griswold); 4 grandchildren: Clover, Paisly, Tizzy, and Oz Champion; as well as Evelyn his granddaughter on the way, he was greatly looking forward to meeting the first child of Jacob and Katie. Jim is also survived by his brothers: Bob Van Matre (Tracy Pierce) and Tom Van Matre (Lori); as well as multiple nieces, nephews and family members who will miss him dearly.

He was a member of the La Place Church of the Brethren and the Cerro Gordo Brethren Church. Jim enjoyed the outdoors. He loved to go camping and kayaking. Jim was a talented gardener and clay sculptor and artist. Jim made a great lasting impression wherever he went. He made those around him feel happy and welcome. Most of all, Jim loved his family. They are his everything. He will be missed beyond all measure.

He is preceded in death by his father, James R. “Pops” Van Matre Sr.; son, Andrew Scott Van Matre; and grandchild, Kidder Andrew Champion.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of James R. "Jim" Van Matre Jr., please visit our flower store.

Send a Card