Donald J. Mattonen
NEGAUNEE, MI – Donald J. Mattonen, age 79, life long area resident, passed away on Friday April 30, 2021, at his home, while in the loving care of his family and U.P. Home Health and Hospice.
Donald was born on July 13, 1941, in Ishpeming, son of the late John and Sadie (Maki) Mattonen. He attended Ishpeming High School, graduating with the class of 1959. Following graduation Donald served in the United States Army from 1963 until 1965. After his years in the service he returned back to the UP where he worked at Cliffs in the hydroelectric plant and as a mechanic at the Empire Mine, retiring in January of 1997.
Donald was a member of the Independent Apostolic Lutheran Church in Negaunee. He enjoyed tinkering with things, doing small engine work, driving around on back roads, always in one of his Fords. Donald loved the U.P. and always said “there is no better place to live”. He loved and cherished his family especially his wife, children, and grandchildren.
Donald is survived by his wife of 54 years- Kathleen “Nina” (Nevala) Mattonen, 5 children- John (Tammy) Mattonen, Stuart (Emiley) Mattonen, Mary (Ted) Autio, Lisa (Keith) Isaacs, Susan (Brent) Anderson, 13 grandchildren- Tanja, Travis, Camille (Riley), Anikka (Matt), Ella, Cruz, Maija, Ali, Shanna, Nolan, Ian, Claire, Simone, siblings- Marilyn Harju, Shirley (Donald) Marcotte, Ken (Jane) Mattonen, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of brothers and sisters in faith.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Donald’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Marc Himes, Dr. Jerold Napier, NP Mark Janofski, as well as the Fresenius Kidney Care in Marquette for the excellent care they gave to Donald over the years.
Donald’s family will greet relatives and friends on Wednesday, May 5, 2021, from 11:00am until 12:00pm, at the Independent Apostolic Lutheran Church in Negaunee. A funeral service will follow at 12:00pm with Dale Kemp officiating. Interment will take place following the service at Northland Chapel Gardens in Negaunee Township.
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic please wear a mask and abide by social distancing guidelines.
Donald’s obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.