Marlowe "Mike" D. Matson

Marlowe Mike D. Matson, 83, died on Friday, June 14, 2013 at Seasons Hospice in Rochester. Mike was born in Rochester on March 1, 1930 to Kurt and Gertrude (Spies) Matson. He graduated from Rochester High School in 1949. He was a proud member of the U.S. Army from 1952-1954, serving as a military police officer during the Korean War. Mike served as armory foreman in the 5th Army Division of the 101st Airborne, United States Army. He served with distinction, earning the United Nations, National Defense and Korean Service Medals. He was a member of the United States Army Corps Reserves from 1954-1960. Mike married Adeline Addie Roth on September 24, 1955 in Lewiston, Minn. Mike worked as a drywall professional in the home building industry owning Matson Drywall, Rochester for 25 years. Mike was a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Rochester and a member of the PDCA (Painting and Decorating Contractors of America). He enjoyed gardening, bird watching, dancing, hunting, fishing, reading, and spending time with his family, especially watching his grandchildrens sports and music activities. Mike was committed to his family, faith and country. His heart was filled with love that he freely shared with all, but none more than with his grandkids. Mike is survived by his wife of 57 years, Addie; three children, Michael (Catherine) Matson, of Naperville, Ill., Jill (Dana) Piens, of Rochester, and Marne (Chris) Gade, of Rochester; four grandchildren, Joshua Piens, Katie Piens, Mitchel Gade, and Meredith Gade; a stepsister, Diane (John) McPherson, of Arizona; and a stepbrother, Rick Matson, of Texas. Mike is preceded in death by his parents. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, June 19, 2013 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Rochester with Rev. William Otte officiating. Visitation will be an hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will take place at Oakwood Cemetery. Memorials can be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church or Seasons Hospice. The family thanks the staffs of the Mayo Clinic Care Transitions Program and Seasons Hospice for their care and support.