Negaunee - Donald Walter "Farmer" Mattson, age 71, of 519 Cherry St., passed away Thursday morning, October 22nd, 2009 at Bell Hospital in Ishpeming.

Donald was born in the family house in Negaunee on February 14, 1938 to the late Jalmer & Ellen (Koski) Mattson. He was a graduate of the Negaunee High School, class of 1956 and served in the U.S. Army for 2 years.

Donald worked 30 years for Cleveland Cliffs working as a plant repairman at the Ore Improvement Plant and later at the Tilden Mine from where he retired. Donald was a member of the Independent Apostolic Lutheran Church in Negaunee. He enjoyed spending time in the outdoors, hunting and fishing.

Donald is survived by two brothers: Lawrence (Kay) Mattson of Negaunee and Richard (Anna) Mattson of Negaunee, four sisters: Mildred Ropponen of Grand Rapids, MN, Shirley (Ted) Kero of Negaunee, Julie (Donald) Johnson of Iron River, and Marjorie (Ernie) Isaacs of Hibbing, MN, 20 nieces and nephews, numerous great nieces and nephews, and a host of brothers and sisters in faith.

The family will greet relatives and friends from 5:00pm until 8:00pm on Saturday October 24, 2009 at the Independent Apostolic Lutheran Church, Co. Rd. 492, Negaunee and again on Sunday October 25, 2009 from 10:00am until the time of services at 11:00am with Charles Prusi officiating. Interment will take place at Northland Chapel Gardens in Negaunee Twp.

Pallbearers will be Donald's nephews.

Donald's obituary may also be viewed at www.bjorkandzhulkie.com where his guest book may be signed.