Robert J. Mattson, age 86, of Gladstone, passed away peacefully Monday morning October 31, 2011 at Christian Park Village in Escanaba.
Robert was born May 6, 1925 in Escanaba, the son of Joseph and Emma (Johnson) Mattson. He served in the US Army during World War II in Italy, the Mediterranean, and North Africa. He was a life member of the D.A.V. and a member of the Gladstone American Legion Post #71. After the war he drove trucks, including hauling cars cross country for KAT and hauling goods for Sears with Signal Delivery Service. After he “retired”, he spent many years driving tour bus for Northland coaches. He finished his driving career with Gladstone Public Schools driving school bus. This was an ideal position for him as he loved kids and knew everyone on his route by name. He always had a kind word, candy, and a big smile for each of his riders.
Robert was an active member of New Horizons Ministry where he served as an Elder, Trustee, Treasurer, and long time Sunday School teacher. He was the epitome of a Christian man – kind, gentle, and always willing to listen, talk and help anyone in need. The light of Jesus shone through him.
Survivors include his son Robert Mattson II and step son Roy (Glenna) MaKosky of Rochester, MN as well as his brother John Mattson of Grand Rapids, MI, his sister Betty Roman of Brampton, MI, and sister-in-law Toshiko Mattson of Rapid City, SD. Robert is also survived by 2 grandchildren and 4 step grandchildren: Elysia (Jeremy) Halls, Dr. Jenny (Jimmy Budnik) MaKosky, Daniel (Kate) MaKosky and Matthew MaKosky and nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to his parents, his brother Walter, and his sister-in-law Dorothy, Robert was preceded in death by his wife Eleanore.
Robert’s family will receive friends on Friday, November 4 from 4:00 PM to 5:45 PM at the New Horizon Ministry Church in Gladstone. Military rites will be conducted at 5:45 PM by the Gladstone American Legion. Funeral Services celebrating his life will follow at 6:00 PM with Pastor Frank Scarcelli officiating. A luncheon will be served immediately following the services in the church fellowship hall. Robert will be laid to rest next to his wife Eleanore at the Gardens of Rest Cemetery in Wells on Saturday, Nov. 5 at 10 AM.