Republic- Virginia M. Mattson, age 83 of Republic Michigan passed away Sunday November 29, 2015 at the UP Health System Marquette following a brief illness. She was surrounded by family at the time of her passing.

Virginia was born October 31, 1932 in Negaunee to Harold & Cecelia (Ringuette) Shepherd. She graduated from Republic High School and received her bachelor's degree from Cleary College. Virg worked for the First National Bank of Negaunee (Range Bank), she retired from the Republic Branch in 1993 where she served as Branch Manager and Assistant Vice President. More recently, Virginia served as a volunteer and treasurer of the St. Vincent DePaul store in Republic.

Virg was a pinochle whiz, slot player extraordinaire and was known to enjoy a martini or two (especially with her cousin Dan), while spending time with family and friends at her camp on Casey Lake. She rarely missed an episode of Young and the Restless, her favorite soapie, (a trait that she shared with her youngest daughter and sister), and always had a book or two within arm's reach. Back in the day, Virg was active in the Republic Rabbit Club, Penguins Snowmobile Club, Republic VFW Auxiliary 5014, and the Church Counsel, among a great many other things.

Most importantly, Virg will be remembered for ruling with an iron fist and a heart of gold, she exemplified independence and strength throughout her 83 years, and lived true to this right to her last breath.

Virginia is survived by 2 daughters: Melinda (John) Hawkins of Branch, MI and Melanie (Lisa Fowler) Mattson of Golden, CO, 2 grandchildren: David (Janine) Hawkins of Naples, FL and Tara (Gary) Kluth of Fountain, MI, 3 great grandchildren: Holly & Haley Hawkins and Hannah Kluth, a sister: Dianne Sirtola of Republic, brothers: Donald Shepherd, & Wayne (Peggy) Shepherd of Republic and Evelyn Dzurick of Racine WI. Virginia was preceded in death by her husband Ben Mattson, and brothers Dennis, Vernon & Kenneth Shepherd.

The family would like to express a special thanks to our "Auntie Di" (Virg's sister). It has been quite a ride over the past couple of years and Virg could not have done it without you. Thank you for all you do and have done for all of us, but most importantly for Virg. We would also like to recognize "Annabelle", Virg loved that little pup with everything she had, and sharing "treats" with "her Ani" brought her more joy than we could have ever imagined.

A service of remembrance will be held at 2:00pm, Saturday December 5, 2015 at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Republic where the family will greet friends from 1:00pm, until the time of service at 2:00pm. St. Vincent DePaul Society will conduct a memorial service prior to the remembrance service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be direct to the St. Vincent DePaul Society in Republic in memory of Virginia.

A luncheon will be held in the church fellowship hall following the service. Interment will take place in Republic Township Cemetery.

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

The funeral service recording, when it becomes available, can be found here .