Age 87, passed away at Medilodge of Kalamazoo on June 1, 2024. He was born in Florida on March 18, 1937, the son of the late Kenneth and Doris (Phillips) Mattix. Garland was a kind, loving and dedicated husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He graduated from Dowagiac High School in 1956, where he played football, basketball and baseball. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. After being honorably discharged he returned to make Southwest Michigan his home. On August 15, 1959, he married the love of his life, Karyl (Tormey) Mattix. They enjoyed 65years of marriage together and made many special memories along the way. Garland was a hard worker who was employed by the Upjohn company for more than thirty years. When not working, his greatest passion was studying the Civil War and watching ports. His kind smile and laughter will be missed by all who loved him. He is survived by his wife, Karyl; children, Jeff Mattix, Beth O’Mearea; grandchildren, Amber Swartz and Josh O’Mearea; great-grandchildren, Olivia and Mason Swartz. He was also preceded in passing by two brothers, Wayne and Mike Mattix.