Marlene J. Mattson was born on January 19, 1933, to the late Henry and Mildred (Gentz) Behrens, in Windom, Minnesota. She loved to serve others and lived a life of faith. Marlene was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter Lutheran Church in rural Lakefield, Minnesota.
Marlene was a 1950 graduate of Windom Area Schools. She continued her education in Mankato, Minnesota, receiving an associate degree in education. She taught at Tracy Schools, and for a short time at Jeffers, before being a substitute teacher for many years at Windom Public Schools.
On June 25, 1955, Marlene was united in marriage to Alden “Bud” Mattson at St. Peter Lutheran Church in rural Lakefield. Bud and Marlene made their home in Delafield Township, Jackson County, where they raised three children, Brenda, Doyle, and Todd. They farmed for many years, and Marlene always brought delicious homemade meals out to the field for the guys. She was known for her baked treats, potato salad, and Christmas trifle. Family was so important to her, and Marlene’s grandchildren held a special place in her heart. She loved to spend time with them reading, playing, and attending their many activities and events.
Marlene was a longtime member of the American Lutheran Church in Windom, where she was a member of the WELCA, Altar Guild, and taught Sunday School. She was active in the community with Home Extension in Jackson County, and she served on the Good Samaritan Society- Sogge Memorial Board. Marlene had many close friends throughout her life.
Recently, Marlene’s health was declining, and she passed away peacefully at the Good Samaritan Society- Sogge Memorial in Windom, with family by her side on Thursday, May 11, 2023.
Marlene is survived by her three children, Brenda (Tony) Frank of Redwood Falls, Doyle (Deb) Mattson of Windom, and Todd (Paula) Mattson of Windom; 11 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and many dear family and friends.
Marlene was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Alden “Bud” Mattson; and son-in-law, Mike Canaday.
Blessed be the memory of Marlene Mattson.
A Celebration of Life Service for Marlene Mattson, age 90, of Windom, was held Monday, May 15, 2023, at the American Lutheran Church in Windom, with Pastor Sarah Larsen Tade officiating. The burial was held at Delafield Township Cemetery in rural Windom.
The service was livestreamed on the American Lutheran Church Facebook page.
