Erick Todd Matthys

Erick Todd Matthys, 73, Ret. Lt. Col. of the Texas Army National Guard, passed away February 18, 2025. Todd was born to Lila Stokes and Frederick Herman Matthys in Austin, Texas on November 16, 1951. He was a graduate of McCallum High School and soon after graduation, he joined the Texas Army National Guard where he honorably served for 31 years. As he served, he earned his undergraduate degree from Park University and attended night classes earning a Masters degree in Library and Information Sciences from the University of Texas.

He was a voracious reader, deep thinker, and problem solver. After his retirement from the National Guard in 2001, his entrepreneurial spirit took over. He and his friend, Larry Rutherford, created Developmental Labs Inc., a successful government defense contracting company where they continued to serve their country using their years of military expertise.

Todd was always on the move, keeping himself busy with projects and different hobbies. He loved being outdoors, was an excellent shot and enjoyed fishing. One of his dreams was starting a brewery. With the help of his son-in-law, Greg Parma, they built Bull Creek Brewing in 2012, a craft brewery that supported local artisans and served as a favorite gathering place for the fast-growing community of Liberty Hill. He cherished all of the friendships and memories he made there over the years.

Todd is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Lynn, his daughters Sara Trantham and her husband, Austin and Julia Parma and her husband, Greg. He leaves behind his four adored grandchildren Tom and Campbell Trantham, and Alex and Miles Parma. He is survived by his sisters Ann Smalley and her husband, Lewis, Gail Beauford, and his brother, Matt Matthys and his wife Elaine. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lila and Frederick H. Matthys, brother Frederick H. Matthys Jr. and brother-in-law, Ronald Beauford Sr.

A graveside service will be held at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, Texas, Friday, March 14th at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Tunnel to Towers, St. Jude Research Hospital for Children, and Austin Pets Alive.