The legal community and residents of Sangamon County are mourning the loss of Honorable Matthew Maurer. Judge Maurer, aged 62, passed away at his home on Sunday, July 23, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of legal expertise and community involvement.
Born on May 21, 1961, in Springfield to Dr. Joseph Jude and Rosetta M. Tega Maurer, he spent his entire life in the city. In 1995, he married Kristina "Kris" McCarthy, who survives him, along with their son Shad Surgis and daughter Jenna Maurer.
Apart from his legal career, Judge Maurer was an avid sports fan, supporting teams like the Chicago Cubs, Bears, Illini Basketball, and Football. He also had a keen interest in NASCAR and Formula One racing and enjoyed watching classic shows like Gunsmoke and Wagon Train. In his youth, he excelled in baseball and basketball.
Known for his charitable nature, Judge Maurer actively supported various local organizations, including St. John's College of Nursing Scholarship Fund, W.I.L.D. Canine Rescue, and Helping Hands. He was a devout member of Koke Mill Christian Church.
After graduating from Griffin High School in 1980, he went on to earn his law degree from the University of Illinois College of Law in 1987. His legal career started as a Prosecutor in the States Attorney's office, and he later served as a felony public defender before being appointed as a Judge of the 7th Judicial Circuit in 2013.
Visitation to pay respects to Judge Maurer will be held on Thursday, July 27, 2023, from 3 pm to 7 pm at Staab Funeral Home in Springfield. An additional visitation is scheduled for Friday, July 28, 2023, from 9 am to 10 am at Koke Mill Christian Church. The Funeral Service will follow at 10 am, officiated by Pastor Stan Summers, with burial at Old Salem Cemetery.
In honor of his memory, memorial contributions are encouraged to be made to organizations that held special meaning for Judge Maurer, including W.I.L.D. Canine Rescue, The Matthew Project, and The Outlet at TheOutletIllinois.org.