Joan L. Mattson

Joan L. Mattson, 90, a native of Galesburg, died 4:53 p.m. Wednesday, January 27, 2016, at the Care Center of Abingdon, Abingdon. Born November 15, 1925, Joan attended Saint Joseph Academy and graduated in 1943.  She spent her later years working for F&M Bank, accumulating over 40 years of experience, and retiring in the 80’s.  While with the bank, she was appointed Head Cashier, and held that position until her retirement. Her hobbies included a great love of music. She learned to play the piano and pipe organ in grade school, and continued playing throughout her entire life.  She voluntarily served her community with her talents, by offering to play for various occasions, and provided organ accompaniments during masses for Corpus Christi Catholic Church, for many years.  Joan was also a collector of angel figurines.  She enjoyed traveling with family and friends all of her life, and visited many places, domestically, as well as internationally, including Hawaii, Alaska, Europe and Asia, just to name a few.  Alongside her mother, Eula Mattson, Joan mastered the art of china painting, resulting in multiple, beautiful pieces and place settings, all of which will be cherished by her remaining family members and friends. Joan was a member of the Pilot Club of Galesburg, part of the International organization for over 50 years, serving as president in 1972 and as Treasurer in past years.  She was also involved as a member of the National Catholic Society of Foresters, and the Ladies of Mary, affiliated with the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Joan was preceded in death by her father, Louis F. Mattson, her mother, Eula E. Mattson, and brother, Robert L. “Skip” Mattson. Joan is survived by Douglas R. Mattson (Nephew), Bradley R. Mattson (Nephew), and Kristin K. Mattson-Brandon (Niece), Griffin R. Mattson, Jaclyn R. Mattson, Jacob R. Brandon and Ian R. Brandon, ( All Great Nieces and Nephews). Visitation will be 12 to 1 p.m. Monday, February 1, 2016 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church.  Funeral Mass will follow at 1 p.m.  Rev. Msgr. Ernest Pizzamiglio will officiate.  Burial will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Galesburg.  Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.  Memorial gifts may be made to Immaculate Heart of Mary Church.