Frederick “Fred” James Mataczynski, age 87, passed away on June 8, 2026, at Silverstone Assisted Living in Appleton. Fred was born on April 5, 1939, to the late Michael and Stella (Zowistowski) Mataczynski, in Conrad, WI, on the family farm-in what he often called “the garage”-it was actually the family house but later became the garage. He grew up with his two sisters and two brothers on the farm and learned the value of hard work. He graduated from UW Madison with a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering. On April 23, 1960, he married his high school sweetheart Rebecca Krosovic, and they shared the next 66 years together and raised their three sons in the Appleton area.

Fred worked for 39 years at Thilmany paper as a production manager. During his time off from work, Fred enjoyed fishing-for Walleye specifically. The family had a cabin (with no running water) in Ladysmith. That was Fred’s happy place where he and his sons would venture for hunting season. He loved to hunt and fish, for him, it wasn’t truly fishing if it didn’t result in a walleye-and nearly every other fish variety resulted in him wanting his bait back and often releasing the fish.

He enjoyed time with friends and time spent on the links with his golfing group were treasured. Fred was a true outdoorsman. He enjoyed “doing the work.” And seldom, if ever, hired someone (besides his sons) to do the work. He would tend the yard, build patios, and pour concrete. He also enjoyed working with his hands and was an excellent woodworker, creating cedar chests and cribbage boards for many in his family.

Fred was passionate about helping others and mentoring. He was an active member of the Kiwanis Club for many years, serving alternately as president and secretary. He also participated in mentoring through the Boy Scout organization and also tutored children with math. Travel was a joy that Fred and Rebecca shared. They travelled to nearly all of the states, ventured to Greece, England, Russia and many other locations. There were also trips to Alaska specifically for fishing.

Fred is survived by his wife of 66 years, Rebecca, his sons Craig, Kevin (Anne) and Brad (Kathy); grandchildren: Mark, Allen, James, Jared, Callie, Maggie, Alexa, Nicholas, Mia; and great grandchildren: Annette, Freddie, Roxanne, Jack. In addition, he is survived by his brothers Michael, Donald, sister Eleanor Malaise.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Caroline (Jim) Lybert, sisters-in-law: Kathy, Sue, and brother-in-law Gordon Malaise.

A memorial service for Fred will take place on Monday August 3, 3036, at 11:00am at Faith Lutheran Church, 601 E Glendale Ave, Appleton. Friends and family may gather at the church from 9:00am until the service begins.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Faith Lutheran Church or the charity of your choice in Fred’s name.