WILMINGTON — James G. “Jim” Mattern, Jr., 67, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 13th at New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, NC.
Jim was born in Altoona, Pennsylvania, son of the late James G. Mattern, Sr. and Patricia L. (Mitchell) Mattern. He was a graduate of Altoona High School and Penn State University. He moved to Oak Island in 2005.
Jim is survived by a wife, Marion Simrill; two sisters: Kathleen F. (Robert) Jackson and Mary Lou (Greg) Perry, both of Altoona, PA; two sons: Samuel J. (Sanja) Mattern of Columbus, OH, and Jacob G. Mattern of Oak Island, NC; a daughter: Rachel M. (Ryan) Mattern-George of Tyrone, PA; five grandchildren: Stefan, Maja, Delilah, Marshall, and Jasper; six nephews; and an acquired family that he loved like his own. He was preceded in death by a niece, Kelly Franciamone.
Jim was a jolly man who laughed through life. He loved spending time in the outdoors, whether it be hunting in the woods with his father, fishing, bird watching, or just sitting at the beach. He was a self-proclaimed jack of all trades and was always willing to lend a hand. He loved Christmas, and he filled others with the Christmas spirit.
What Jim will be best remembered for was his gravitational personality. He seemed to just collect friends everywhere he went. More importantly, he cherished and fostered those relationships. He was the glue that bonded so many together. We can honor Jim’s life by being intentional with our time and generous with our love.
