Ishpeming, MI – Roger Werner Matson, age 84, of Ishpeming, passed away on Thursday, July 7, 2022, surrounded by family at UP Health System Marquette after a heart attack at his home the previous day.

Roger was born in Ishpeming on October 13, 1937 as the only son and youngest child of Syma E. (Kulju) and Werner E. Matson.  Roger and his sisters, Barbara (William) Sheldon and Carole (Don) Green, grew up in the Barnum location of Ishpeming.  After graduating in 1955, Roger enlisted in the Navy and became a Marine Corpsman (Medic).  After his service ended in 1958, Roger met the love of his life, Marilyn, and married her on August 5, 1961 at the Bethel Lutheran Church, where they were lifelong members.

Roger worked for Cleveland Cliffs for over 30 years, starting as a welder and retiring as a vibration analyst in the preventive maintenance program.  He was also an active member of the AmVets, and after retirement, became a diehard golf member at the Wawonowin Country Club where he made a hole in one on the 13 ^th hole.  Roger also enjoyed chaperoning for the Blue Notes, videotaping JV and varsity football games for the Ishpeming Football Program, deer hunting, and his Tuesday morning coffee clutch.  But spending time with his grand and great-grand kids was what he lived for.

Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Marilyn E. (Ahti) Matson; two sons - Keith (Trudi) Matson and Bruce Matson; daughter - Julie (Charlie) Simons, all of Ishpeming; grandchildren – Jessica (Eric) Hooper, Neal Simons, and Clayton Simons; great-grandchildren – Keira and Lyle Hooper; along with several nieces and nephews.

The family will greet relatives and friends from 10:00 am – 11:00 am on Wednesday, July 13, 2022 at the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home.  A memorial service will follow at 11:00 am with Rev. Steven Weston to officiate.  A luncheon will follow the services at the River Rock Lanes and Banquet Center in Ishpeming.

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