Edward Robert (Bob) Mattern, age 75, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 24, 2026.

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One of his most treasured moments was his tryout for the New York Yankees, a team that was always dear to his heart.

Bob was born on December 8, 1950 at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, to Edward and Jessie Mattern. He grew up in River Edge, NJ and was a graduate of River Dell High School, class of 1969. His high school years were filled with many moments pitching baseballs. One of his most treasured moments was his tryout for the New York Yankees, a team that was always dear to his heart. His first two years of college were spent at the College of Artesia (CA) in Artesia, New Mexico, where he continued his love of playing baseball. It was also in Artesia where he gained a second family, the Isaacs, who adopted him as part of the family. They remained an important part of his life for all the years he lived. When CA closed, Bob finished his last two years of college at the College of Racine, which also closed shortly after he graduated. This became a standing joke between Bob and his wife of 52 years, Kathy who he met while teaching at Mishicot High School — they should place bets when Mishicot would close. In 1973 when he started teaching at Mishicot High School, he continued his love of baseball coaching the baseball team. Following his years teaching, he taught as a substitute teacher for Manitowoc Public School District, as well as a drivers ed instructor for many years at Ace Driving School in Manitowoc. In 2006, Bob met Shane Murphy which changed both his and Kathy’s lives as it began a long career as “supervisor Bob” overseeing Murphy Properties and living at various apartment complexes throughout Wisconsin. Following his 20-year career with Murphy Properties, Bob retired and he and Kathy settled into life in Brillion.

Bob was a devoted baseball fan, traveler, and avid Weather Channel watcher. He loved Subway and cookies, especially chocolate chip cookies. He and Kathy spent many years “living” in Tucson, which became like a 2nd home to them, as well as many trips to Artesia, New Jersey, Florida and California to see family and on cruises in Europe. Door County was also a special get away and many many visits to Sister Bay began even as Stephanie was a baby, and Madelyn’s very first travel adventure was to Acapulco with grandpa grandma, mom and dad at the age of nine months!

One of Bob’s greatest joys was his daughter and grandchildren. He rarely missed an opportunity to watch Stephanie swim on the swim team; Maddie play volleyball or attend an art show for Charlotte. He never missed those special moments. He loved Erwin’s cooking and would often request Erwin cook family meals. He always made it a priority to show up and provide support and encouragement. His loyalty, generosity and sense of humor will be greatly missed.

Bob is survived by his wife of 52 years, Kathy of Brillion, his sister Jane and her husband Sam of Florida, beloved daughter Stephanie and her partner Erwin and the special joys of his life - granddaughters Madelyn and Charlotte of Menasha, as well as other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jessie and Edward Mattern; his second parents: Walt and Billie Isaacs, and other relatives.

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One of Bob’s greatest joys was his daughter and grandchildren.

The family will greet relatives and friends for visitation at Pielhop Funeral Home, Brillion, on Sunday, November 8th from 2 pm to 4 pm.

Funeral services for Bob will be held on Monday, November 9th at 10 am at Faith Lutheran Church, Valders. Relatives and friends will be greeted at the church on Monday, November 9th from 9 am until the time of service. A private graveside service in Two Rivers will follow the service.