Matthew E. Holmes, age 93, of Mazon, IL, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family.  He was born December 25, 1932 in Oklahoma City, OK, to the late Ernest and Marion (nee Goldie) Holmes.

Matthew was a graduate of Mazon-Verona-Kinsman High School, Class of 1952. After graduation he went on to build a life and a legacy as a Structural Iron Worker. He began his career with Ironworkers Local 444, later moving to Ironworkers Local 1 in Chicago, where he spent forty years helping to build the city before retiring in 1996. Matthew was also a member of Iron Workers International and Mazon Masonic Lodge 826, and he carried the same dedication he brought to his work into everything he did.

He was a founding member of the Coal City Area Club where in his younger years he had a passion for scuba diving. As his family grew, he loved the simple joys of camping, fishing, and spending quality time together at the club.  In the colder months, they looked forward to ski trips. Matthew enjoyed welding, being the family handyman, and just “putzing around” in his garage. Always sharing his steady hands, his practical talents, and his love with the people around him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Karen (nee Isham) Holmes, who he married on October 10, 1959; his dear sons, David (Kathy) Holmes and Derrick Holmes; his loving grandchildren, Benjamin Holmes, Elizabeth Holmes, Andrew Holmes, and Laura (Bryan) Kunysz; adoring great granddaughters, Brynlee and Layla Kunysz; brother, William (Georgia) Holmes, and sister, Miriam Bagus.  Many nieces, nephews and dear friends also survive.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Ernest, Joe, and Albert Holmes.

A memorial visitation for Matthew E. Holmes will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 1201 W. Route 6 (at Deerpath Dr.), Morris, from 3:00 p.m. until the time of his Memorial Service at 6:00 p.m. Per his request, cremation rites have been accorded.

For more information, please call the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home at 815-942-5040 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.