Frederick Franklin Mattix Sr.

1933-2025

SALEM — It is with heavy hearts that the family announces the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather Frederick Franklin Mattix Sr. on Dec. 26, 2025.

“Fred” was born May 30, 1933, to Wilbur and Rhea (Flugan) Mattix on his grandmother’s farm on the outskirts of Lisbon, Ohio. As a child, Fred thought the Memorial Day Parades were for him, fitting!

Fred was a proud graduate of David Anderson High School and The Ohio State University.

Fred married the love of his life Sarah “Sal” Hartford on March 22, 1958. They enjoyed 64 glorious years together until her death on Aug. 23, 2022. Together, they had two beautiful boys, Frederick Franklin Mattix Jr. and William Edward Mattix, who cherished every moment with Dad.

Fred served as Vice-President of Human Resources at National Rubber Manufacturing in Columbiana, Ohio, where he made many long-lasting friendships. Upon retiring from NRM, Fred owned the Leetonia Dairy Queen for several years. During this time, Fred also served as Board President of Salem Community Hospital, a position he was very proud of. He eventually returned to his true passion of Human Resources Director of East Ohio Machinery in Alliance, Ohio.

Upon complete retirement, he and Sal became snowbirds, spending the colder months in “boringly beautiful” Naples, Florida, where they made many more wonderful friendships. Dad would often say how amazed he was with the number of people from Lisbon who also resided in Naples.

Fred was an avid golfer and some of his many achievements were winning the Alliance Country Club’s “Blue Coat” Tournament, a local event similar to the Masters and their Green Coat, in 1969 with lifelong friend Hank Siefke. Fred was also a longtime member of the Salem Golf Club and played many rounds with his sons. Fred also fulfilled his lifelong dream of playing the “Old Course” at St. Andrews in Scotland. Fred also became a member of the “Hole in One Club” in 2006.

An annual highlight for Fred was the Columbiana County Fair. A walk down the midway would take several hours given the many friends and former associates that would stop to say hello and share many fond memories. It was obvious to us that many felt Dad was a great guy!

Fred is survived by his two sons, Rick (Sue) and Bill (Jessie) who will always cherish the many wonderful times with Dad; grandchildren, Derick, Hannah, Dominique, and Nicholas; and great-grandchildren, Jayce, Sebastian, Marcus, and Logan.

The family would like to thank Jamie and all the staff at Brookdale of Salem for the genuine love they showed for Dad. Also, Buckeye Hospice who made Dad’s final days comfortable.

Per the family’s request, there will be no services.

Material contributions can be made in Fred’s name to the Columbiana County Fair, PO Box 356, Lisbon, OH 44432.

“Dad, we love you, always have and always will.”

Please visit www.starkmemorial.com to share memories and condolences with the family.

1/3/26