Fred Mattlin

Fred Walter Mattlin of Boca Raton, Florida passed away peacefully Monday, November 23, 2015, from complications following a brief illness, and now rests with the Lord.

Fred was born in Oak Park, Illinois on January 26, 1951, second-oldest of five boys born to Fred R. and Marie (nee Anders) Mattlin. He grew up in Clarendon Hills, Illinois, and was a standout student and star athlete at Hinsdale South High School in Darien, Il, where he achieved all-conference honors in four different sports, and all-state recognition in two. He was president of his class for 3 years, and president of the student council for one year. After graduating near the top of his high school class academically, he chose to attend Yale University after considering colleges and universities all over the country. At Yale, he continued his excellent academic performance, while also playing football, basketball and baseball, and he was also honored to be tapped as a member of Skull & Bones. He graduated Cum Laude from Yale in 1973, and went on to receive his law degree from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, in 1976. He began his career practicing law with Ross & Hardies in Chicago, eventually transferring to South Florida to help open Ross & Hardies’ offices in Boca Raton in 1981. He would put down deep roots in Boca Raton and South Florida, which remained his home for the rest of his life.

Fred’s passion for law and his reputation as a persistent and ferocious litigator opened many doors for his success, not just with Ross & Hardies, but also with firms he helped start up and manage over the years. His success opened many avenues outside of the practice of law, as Fred travelled extensively across the country creating many successful business and personal relationships. Fred was known for his indefatigable spirit, whether in representing clients or in building personal relationships. He also possessed a huge heart for helping others, and a sense of humor that bordered on ribald most of the time. He was also a passionate sports fan and avid golfer, and Fred’s March Madness Parties for NCAA Final Four were legendary “must-attend” events in Boca for many years.

Fred is survived by his son Mason, the pride and joy of his life. Fred is also survived by his former wife Bobbie (nee Walls). Fred also leaves behind 4 brothers: Marc (Frances), Steve (Betsy), Jon (Janet), and Tim (Sherry), as well as many nieces and nephews. Friends and business associates are far too many to list, but suffice to say that Fred’s departure from this world leaves many heavy hearts but many more vibrant memories. His was a larger-than-life personality, and the world is just a little less interesting without his unique take on all aspects of life and living. To say he will be missed is no small understatement.

A memorial service for Fred will be held at 10:30AM on Friday, December 04, 2015 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Boca Raton. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Glick Family Funeral Home in Boca Raton, and those interested can check the funeral home website for updated service information, or to leave messages of condolences.

 Service Information