Thomas Francis "Boot" Matts

Tom was born in Rockford on July 7, 1954. His parents were Francis (Babe) and Maude Matts, and Jeannine Scroggins. Tom Graduated from Boylan High School in 1972. He married the love of his life Dianna Vincent on January 14, 1983. Tom worked for Eclipse/Honeywell for 35 years before he retired. Tom also worked at Advanced Machine for the last few years during his “retirement”. We want to say Thank you to Sheila and the Advanced Machine family as our Dad truly enjoyed going to work every day the last few years. Tom was an avid Harley Davidson rider and loved his trike. Tom was a member of the Verdi Club where he loved his fish fry on Friday nights, played Bocce with his son Michael and their Wednesday night teammates. Tom was a huge Cubs and Bears fan. Tom had a quick wit and was always up for a good time. Other than his family, Tom was most proud that he had been sober for almost 30 years.

Tom is survived by his sons, Michael Matts and Cary Plummer, Daughter Lisa (Jeff) Crosser, His Granddaughters Kay and Brianna Crosser and Grandson Dominic Matts. Brothers Bob and Bill Scroggins and his best friends Link (Lisa) Leary and Jeff Crosser. Tom was also survived by his longtime companion Mel Sutherland and his trusted dog Maggie. Tom was an amazing Father, Papa, and friend to many. He was extremely proud and cherished his grandchildren. Tom always has a soft spot for his Granddaughters Kay and Brianna, and he was extremely proud of what they have accomplished and the adults they have become. Tom also had a special bond with his Grandson Dominic, who he passed on his love for listening to the Blues on the radio and was his Papa’s shadow.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, and wife Dianna.

Services will be Friday August 13th at Sundberg Funeral Home with a visitation from 1-3 and service at 4. If you have Harley, Cubs, or Bears attire please wear that. Tom was a jeans and t-shirt type of person so please be comfortable and come as you are. The family would like anyone who is able to come down to the Verdi Club after the services around 5pm for a gathering.

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