Millikin University announced on March 31 the death of former head football coach Lester “Skip” Mathieson, who passed away on March 26 at the age of 90.
Mathieson was a significant figure in Millikin’s football history, leading the Big Blue program from 1966 to 1976. During his tenure, he achieved a career record of 54-45 and guided the team to several notable victories. In 1973, under his leadership, Millikin posted an 8-2 season and secured a decisive win in the Boot Hill Bowl against Bethany (Kansas), finishing with a score of 51-7. The following year, Mathieson’s team again went 8-2 and claimed the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin Championship before advancing to the Big Blue Bowl for a second consecutive year.
In addition to coaching, Mathieson served as athletic director during his time at Millikin. His contributions were recognized with induction into the Millikin University Athletics Hall of Fame in 1990.
A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Decatur on Saturday, April 11 at 11:00 a.m., with visitation beginning an hour earlier. The family has requested that memorials be made to either the Alzheimer’s Association or Millikin University Athletic Department instead of flowers.
The university community continues to reflect on Coach Mathieson’s impact both on and off the field as they remember his legacy.
