William "Vern" Van Matre

William "Vern" Van Matre, 68, of Green River passed away April 3, 2015 at the Intermountain Health Care in Salt Lake City of pancreatic cancer.

Van Matre was born in Hilo, Hawaii. At the age of four, he moved to Eden Valley and then moved to Green River, where he attended Green River High School. He was inducted into the hall of fame twice for athletic accomplishment. Later he joined the Navy, serving his country for 25 years, retiring as master chief. He moved on to become associate dean of San Diego City College.

In 2007 Vern returned to Green River to care for his mother, Carmen Boling and to be closer to his family and fish the great waters of Wyoming. He really loved to fish, do yard work, camping, watch Nascar and spend time with his family.

Vern is survived by his wife Connie Drachler; daughter Jennifer Wattles and husband Patrick of Pleasant Prairie, Wisc., along with four grandchildren; son Nick Van Matre of St. Augustine, Fla .; brother and sister-in-law Don and Barb Van Matre of Green River and several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Vern was an extraordinary  person. He was able to touch the hearts of so many people with his compassion, humor, respect, friendship, wisdom and desire to live life to the fullest.

Military graveside and inurnment will take place at 11 a.m. April 24, 2015 in the military section of Riverview Cemetery in Green River .

Condolences may be left at http://www.vasefuneralhomes.com.