Peacefully, after 86 years of a life filled with love, hard work, laughter and countless cherished memories, Lorne Frederick Mattice Jr. passed away surrounded by the love of his family. He was the best husband, Dad, Grandpa and Great-Grandpa our family could have asked for.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1940, Fred Mattice Jr. began his journey with a determination to build a life he could be proud of—a life defined by hard work, love of family, friendship and a truly lasting legacy.
Fred was blessed with his beloved wife, Sharon, whom he married on September 9, 1961. Together, they built a beautiful life and a family that was the centre of Fred’s world. He will be deeply missed by his children: Suzanne Vanderbolt (Ritchie Swing), Freddie and Lisa Mattice, and Shannon and Rick Veri.
Fred was a proud Grandpa to Steven and Tanya Vanderbolt, Sarah and Andrew Burgess, Harley and Tiffany Mattice, Hayley Mattice and Jared Ings, Hayden Mattice, Heidi Mattice, Jason and Chelsey Veri, Lauren and Justin Otterman, and Aaron and Madison Veri.
He was a cherished Great-Grandpa to Caleb and Hazel Vanderbolt, Grant, Clark and James Burgess, Jaxon and Jase Otterman, and Reid and Rylan Veri.
Fred spent many years as a farmer, a life that suited his strong work ethic and love of the land. In 1989, he and his son Freddie embarked on their dream of owning their own trucking company, L. Frederick Mattice Farms & Trucking Inc.
What began with Fred, Freddie and son-in-law Rick behind the wheel grew into a family legacy. Over the years, the business evolved, and today, his grandsons are actively involved in both the trucking and elevator operations—a legacy Fred could be incredibly proud of.
Beyond farming and trucking, Fred and Sharon spent many wonderful years making memories with their Woodlawn friends and families. They enjoyed countless laughs, time at the cottage, boating, good friends and, of course, the odd bottle of wine. Sanibel Island ,Florida was their favourite winter retreat. Dockside for cocktail hour, boating and enjoying Gramma Dot’s.
Fred’s greatest legacy, however, will always be his family. The values he lived by, the memories he created, the lessons he taught and the love he gave will continue through his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren for generations to come.
He leaves behind a lifetime of love and memories that will never be forgotten.
To the doctors and nurses of ALC 6, St. Joe’s Hospital for their excellent care of Dad, he truly felt comfortable. To all our family & friends that have helped make Fred’s journey a little bit easier, we thank you so much.
Celebration of Life for Fred will be hosted by his family on Friday September 18th, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. Speeches will be at 4:30, 1011 Concession 11, Hagersville (Mattice Elevators).
Donations in Fred’s memory would be appreciated to Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice.
