Matthew J. Mcellen

Matthew James McEllen, 68, of Galesburg, died peacefully Tuesday, November 16, 2021 at Courtyard Estates, Bushnell, IL. Matt was born November 8, 1953 in Oak Park, IL the son of Arthur Richard and Rita Delores (Jarka) McEllen.  Matt is survived by six brothers, Joe McEllen and Tim McEllen of Galesburg, Mike McEllen of Elmhurst, Tom (Marsha) McEllen of Marysville, MI, and Paul McEllen and Pete (Kim) McEllen both of Galesburg; four sisters, Maggie (Charlie) Perez of Galesburg, Mary (Kent) Henry of Davenport, IA, Kathy (Brian) Shields of Naperville, and Suzanne (Tracy Purcell) McEllen of Galesburg; a special friend, Carole Stokes of Monmouth; and numerous nieces and nephews.  Matt was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Mark McEllen; and his paternal and maternal grandparents. Matt graduated from Galesburg High School in 1972.  He then went to work for Maytag, retiring after 30 years of service in 2002.  Not ready to fully retire, Matt then went to work for Galesburg CUSD#205 as a custodian for 10 years; and then worked for three years at Dick Blick before fully retiring.  Matt was an avid sports fan, and enjoyed following the most Chicago teams, namely the Cubs, Bulls, Blackhawks, and Bears. Matt enjoyed nature, he enjoyed playing golf, walking, hiking, and riding his bike.  He also enjoyed being around dogs. Visitation will be 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday, November 22, 2021 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg, with memorial services following at 1:30 p.m.  Chaplain Jordan Knight will officiate.  The family is asking for all in attendance to wear a Cubs shirt or their favorite team apparel.  Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg.  Memorials may be made in Matt’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to Shriner’s Hospitals for Children.