Obituary of William Mattison

 

Mattison, William Durward Charles

 

Age 94, “Bill”, a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, great grandfather, and great-great grandfather, peacefully passed away on February 8, 2024, surrounded by his loving family, in Plymouth, Minnesota. Bill was a devoted husband to his wife Barbara and father to his eight children.

 

Bill is preceded in death by his wife, Barbara; parents, Durward “Matt“ and Marian Mattison; brother, Bob; and son, Tom. He is survived by his two brothers: Roger (Dorothy), and Brian (Edna); his four daughters: Nancy (Keith), Deb, Sue (Bob), Mary (Scott), and three sons: David, Craig (Leslie), and Richard; Grandchildren: Layne (Jack), Sarah (Mike), Zach (Taylor), Heather (Jason), Michael, Riley, Kyle, Cody, Tanner, Allie, Robbie, and Susan; Great grandchildren: Tyler (Emilie), Stevie, Brenden, Makenzie, Madison, Mariah, Harrison, Ava, Olivia, Jackson, Dylan, Hank, Grace, Rose, Jack, Liv, Martin, and Jolene; and Great-great grandchild: Oliver.

 

Bill was born December 30, 1929, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He graduated in 1948 from Washburn High School, Minneapolis, and attended the University of Minnesota, graduating with his doctorate in dentistry (DDS) in 1955. He joined the Air Force in 1955, as Captain and Dentist at Nellis Air Force Base, in Las Vegas, Nevada. He continued his military career serving in the Reserves for 20 years. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to serving his Country with pride and honor.

 

In 1957, Bill returned to Minnesota, practicing dentistry in Plainview.  In 1960, he moved his family to Golden Valley and practiced dentistry at Brooklyn Boulevard Dental, in Brooklyn Center, which he later renamed Woodhaven Dental Associates. Practicing as a dentist for over five decades, he touched the lives of countless patients with his skillful hands, quick wit and compassionate heart. His commitment to his profession earned him the respect and admiration of all who knew him. 

 

Bill’s life was marked by a genuine passion for life that centered around his family.  His dedication and love for his wife and family were of prime importance. His presence was marked by a warm smile, laughter and storytelling. He cherished every family holiday, gathering and celebration, whether it was moments spent together at the farm or at the lake cabin, or simply gathered around sharing stories about days gone by.

 

His love of life and enthusiasm was evident in every area of his life. Beyond his professional achievements, he held an adventurous spirit that led him through life’s journey with a healthy curiosity. Bill pursued many creative talents, which manifested in a life-long love of painting, woodworking, fly tying, welding, gardening, and car racing.   Additionally, he was an avid hunter, fisherman and conservationist. Bill found friendship, peace and the opportunity to share his love of the outdoors with many.  His love for the great outdoors extended far beyond leisurely pursuits, it became an integral part of who he was. 

 

He shared his lifelong dedication and enthusiasm of health and fitness with many.  He embodied an inspirational determination and strength both inside and out.  While in dental school, Bill was a professional wrestler named “Mr. America.”  He participated in bodybuilding competitions in the 1950’s, acquiring the titles of Mr. Minnesota, Mr. Twin Cities, and Mr. Northwest.

 

Bill had a strong faith in God and persevered in his battle of declining health with strength and dignity. He will be missed beyond words, yet the legacy he has left behind will live on through generations.

 

The Mattison family invites you to gather in a celebration of Bill’s life at Fort Snelling National Cemetery on May 9, 2024, at 1:00 pm, where we will pay tribute to this extraordinary man and honor his remarkable life.