Arthur R. Mathieu, Sr. of Boardman Street in Sheffield passed away Wednesday morning January 14, 2015 at his home just 3 days shy of his 72nd birthday. Born January 17, 1943 in Willimantic, Connecticut he was the son of Carl Mathieu and Louise Strickland Mathieu Ball. A veteran of the Vietnam War Arthur served in the U.S. Marine Corp from 1960 - 1966. Mr. Mathieu was a talented tool and die maker. In 1993 he retired from Balgen Machine Co., in West Stockbridge where he had worked for 20 years. He started his career at Dresser Brothers in 1964 which later became Nucom in Great Barrington. Arthur was a former scout master for Boy Scout Troop #23 in Sheffield and he was a member of the NRA. He enjoyed woodworking and spending time with his family and friends. Arthur is survived by his wife of 53 years Mary Jane Olsiewski Mathieu. The couple was married on December 19, 1961 in Danielson, Connecticut. He also leaves two sons Mark Mathieu of Great Barrington and Arty Mathieu of Sheffield, his brother Leonard Mathieu, a half brother Jerry Ball, a half sister Denise Smith, six granddaughters, Rebecca, Anna, Stephanie, Chelsea, Amanda and Michelle, his great granddaughter Jasmine and his great grandson Marcus. A service celebrating his life will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at FINNERTY & STEVENS FUNERAL HOME in Great Barrington, conducted by Father Bruce Teague, Pastor at Our Lady of the Valley Church in Sheffield. There will be no calling hours. Donations in Arthur's memory may be made to the American Cancer Society through FINNERTY & STEVENS FUNERAL HOME, 426 Main St., Great Barrington, MA 01230. Remembrances may be sent to his family through www.finnertyandstevens.com
