Matthew John "Matt" Freeland, 63, a Yerington resident for the past 14 years, died Feb. 14 at the South Lyon Medical Center in Yerington. He was born Oct. 15, 1940, in Glendale, Calif., to Dan Preston and Mary Louise Wilson Freeland. He grew up in Boise, Idaho, where he was raised by his aunt and uncle Harriett and Dick Elmer.
He joined the U.S. Navy in 1959 and retired in 1982 after 22 years of service. He trained to be an aviation mechanic, specializing in ejection seats and oxygen systems for fighter jets. He served two tours in Vietnam and was on the maiden voyage of the first nuclear aircraft carrier, the USS Enterprise. He also served on the Kitty Hawk, Ranger, Forrestal and Independence during his career. He turned down numerous promotions until 1980, when he became a chief petty officer.
He was an avid golfer and a member of the Mason Valley Country Club.
Among his survivors are his wife, Becky of Yerington; son and daughter-in-law David and Rhonda of Macon, Ga.; son Glenn of Des Moines, Iowa; daughter, Kari Freeland of Washington; and grandchildren Bryant, Breanne and Bradley Freeland of Macon.
At his request, no service will be held.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Matt Freeland Memorial Scholarship Fund, Yerington Rotary Club, c/o Joe Giomi, 217 Highway 208, Yerington, NV 89447.
Freitas Rupracht Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
