Republic- Jon G. Mattila, age 72, lifelong Republic area resident, passed away on Thursday October 28, 2021 at the Marquette County Medical Care Facility while in the loving care of his family, Lake Superior Life Care & Hospice, and nursing home staff.

Jon was born in Marquette on October 8, 1949, son of the late Ilmari "Smudge" and Elvie (Antilla) Mattila. He was a graduate of Republic High School. Jon worked for 20 years for Cliffs as a plant repairman after which he worked 9 years in Lake Bluff, Illinois.  Upon returning to the U.P. Jon enrolled at NMU and in 2003 earned a BSW Degree. He received employment at the Great Lakes Recovery Center in Marquette, Iron River and Iron Mountain offices as well as facilitating a Recovery program at the Marenisco prison. In his retirement Jon worked part-time as a counselor at the Republic Michigamme School ending his career in 2016.

Jon attended the First Baptist Church of Witch Lake, he enjoyed welding, woodworking, black smithing, log building, and was a motorcycle enthusiast. Camping, bowling, hiking and mini golf, was time well spent with the 4 grandchildren. Jon's sense of humor will be so missed by all. There was never a dull moment when he was present. Jon didn't mind telling folks how he would like to write a book about his life entitled "From the Sherriff's List to The Dean's List." An accounting of God's Grace in a troubled life.

Jon is survived by his wife of 52 years- Julie (Jarvi) Mattila, daughter- Joeylynn (Jeff) Mattson of Lake Mills, Wi, 4 grandchildren- Josiah Mattson, Liberty (Jacob) Anderson, Havah Mattson, Samuel Mattson, sister- Jody Nepstad, sister-in-law- Donna Mattila, nephew- Leif Nepstad and a life- long friend Mr. Ralph Clark and the Clark families. He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother- Jay Mattila.

Jon's family will greet relatives and friends at the First Baptist Church of Witch Lake on Saturday November 6, 2021 from 11:00am until 12:00pm. A memorial service will be held at 12:00pm with Rev. Keven Brownfield officiating. A potluck luncheon will follow in the church hall.

Jon's obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.