Gary Mattson

Gary L. Mattson
Gary L. “Papa Gary” Mattson, 70, lifelong Nashwauk resident, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 21, 2012, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, MN.  He was born in Grand Rapids, MN on August 19, 1941, to Charles J. and Helmi H. Mattson.  Gary graduated from Greenway High School and Staples Technical College.  He served 2 years in the US Army and then worked at Eveleth Taconite as a warehouseman, retiring after 30 years with the company.  Gary was a caring, unselfish, down to earth guy who enjoyed the simple things in life.  He adored his family, especially his three grandchildren, with whom he loved to discuss their daily “travels” which included details of school, grades, and sports.  He was an avid sports fan, and followed his grandson Dylan’s hockey and baseball games.  His grandchildren were the absolute apple of his eye.  He was so proud of them and cherished every moment with them.
He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Kathy, of Nashwauk; a son, Chuck (Stacey) Mattson of Hibbing; 3 grandchildren, Dylan Mattson and twins Emily and Morgan Mattson; a brother, Clyde Mattson of Middleburg, Florida; 2 sisters-in-law: Roseann Urbick of Hibbing and Barb (Dick) Branum of Buck Lake; a brother-in-law, Tom Stupar of Hibbing; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great nephews, and his dog, Mindy.  Gary was preceded in death by his parents and nieces Tracy Bennett and Tasha Urbick.
At Gary’s request, a private family funeral service will be held at Dougherty Funeral Home, Hibbing.  Interment will be in Nashwauk Cemetery at a later date.  To sign the guestbook online, please visit www.doughertyofhibbing.com.

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