Wayne Carl "Bud" Mathias

Wayne Carl "Bud" Mathias, 75, passed away peacefully, reuniting with his beloved mother, Evelyn, father George Frederick and brother, George. Born on January 23, 1950, in Hamilton, Ohio, Bud lived a life defined by service, craftsmanship, and an enduring passion for sports.

A gifted athlete, Bud lettered in both baseball and football at West Mesa high school, later earning a degree in sports education from the University of New Mexico. From 1968 to 1972, he proudly served in the United States Air Force, achieving the rank of Sergeant (E-4 "Buck Sargent"). His military service took him to Kiramusel, Turkey, and Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska. While stationed overseas, Bud had the distinct honor of playing on a military all-star football team-an experience he held dear. He was honorably discharged after four years of faithful service.

After returning home, Bud settled in Albuquerque before moving to Fayetteville, Arkansas, in 1985. He spent his career as a skilled carpenter, finding joy in working with his hands and building things that lasted. In 2023, Bud returned to New Mexico-the place he had always dreamed of spending his final years-and embraced the peace of the Land of Enchantment, where he could live out his long-held dream of being a cowboy.

Bud is survived by his son, Christian Mathias; granddaughters, Gabriella and Marissa; daughter, Savannah Watson and her husband Eric; stepson, Travis Peterson, his wife Jen, and their son Jake; and stepdaughter, Heather Pulley, her husband Mike George and her sons Ethan and Campbell. Also, many other additonal loved famiy members.  He leaves behind a legacy of strength, integrity, and quiet devotion to his family, country, and craft.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

Services will be held on Monday, June 23, 2025 at French Funerals Wyoming, 7121 Wyoming Blvd. NE.   Visitation time will be 6:00 PM and the Funeral Service at 7:00 PM.   Interment will occur the following morning, Tuesday, June 24, 2025, 9:00 AM at Santa Fe National Cemetery, 501 North Guadalupe Street, Santa Fe, NM 87501

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