Bengt "LaVerne" Mattson

Bengt “LaVerne” Mattson of Leland, Illinois passed away peacefully at his home on November 26, 2025, surrounded by the love of his daughter and son. Born on June 25, 1941 in Sandwich, Illinois, he was a devoted member of his family, community, church, and workplace. He was the youngest son of Ben and Ina (Petersson) Mattson, who instilled the values of hard work, dedication, and loyalty that would guide him for the rest of his life. He treasured his Swedish heritage and was proud of his family and upbringing.

LaVerne grew up helping on his parents’ farm, which became one of his lifelong passions, from 4-H projects raising Hereford steers and Hampshire hogs, to feeding hundreds of cattle in early adulthood. He worked for over 40 years at Conserv FS in Waterman where he served the local agricultural community but continued to run the family farm after the passing of his father in 1969.

LaVerne was a reliable pillar of his community for his entire life, giving back to the institutions that formed him and enriched his life. He served his neighbors as part of Victor Township government for over 40 years, retiring as Township Supervisor. He volunteered at the Sandwich Fair for over 50 years, serving for most of it as Superintendent of the goat barn, not because he owned goats (he didn’t), but because it was a need he could fill.

His church was the longest and deepest institution in his life, from baptism and confirmation, to helping lay the cornerstone for the new building in 1957. It was the most constant presence through the many transitions of his life. He gained much from this anchor in his life, to which he gave back as a volunteer on many committees, church council, mowing the lawn, and other acts of service for many years. He was not a singer, but those who sat near him will remember his heartfelt voice contributing to the weekly hymns.

LaVerne found the greatest joy in life in his family. Those who visited his house may remember that he changed little since it was his parents’ house, except plastering the fridge, walls and shelves with photos of his kids and grandkids. He is survived by his two children, Shawna (Seth) Hoffman and Kurt (Kelsey) Mattson, who he proudly supported through college, marriage and successful adulthood. He didn’t always have the right words to express his love, but he displayed it with his actions, and never missed a basketball game, recital, Christmas program or any ceremony or celebration that his kids were a part of. He loved his grandchildren, Sadie, Stella, Truitt and Lila and relished giving them Christmas gifts from “Santa”. He was also close to his cousin Dorothy (Hank) Tarr, with whom he spent childhood summers on the farm and stayed close with throughout his life.

He also enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, from gathering with friends on his bowling league and coffee group, to fishing, Chicago sports, and John Deere tractors. He loved his hometown and local businesses in Leland, Somonauk, and Sandwich, from where many of you will remember his presence and patronage. He was a dedicated WSPY listener and avid Sponsor Wheel player.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Bertil and Ronnie, and grandson Silas Bengt Hoffman.

LaVerne’s life will be celebrated with a visitation held at his beloved Salem Lutheran Church in Sandwich on Friday December 5, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at the same location on Saturday December 6 at 10:00 AM with Pastor John Rothfusz officiating. He will be laid to rest at Oak Ridge Cemetery after the service, with a luncheon at the church to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Salem Lutheran Church, or the charity of one’s choice. For more information or to sign the online guest book, go to www.EighnerFuneralHomes.com

Although LaVerne will be missed in physical presence, his legacy of commitment and service will continue in his family, church, and community. We will remember him for his ear-to-ear grin, persistence through life’s adversities, hard work, and quick offer to help, especially if it involved mowing or moving things with a trailer.

Turner-Eighner Funeral Home 
13160 Rt 34 W ~ PO Box 404 
Somonauk, IL 60552 
815-498-2363