Kermit Alton Mason Jr., 97, of Charleston, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2026, at Brookdale Charleston Gardens.

Kermit was born on January 7, 1929, in Carpio, North Dakota, to Kermit Alton Mason Sr. and Lila (Erikson) Mason. He was of Norwegian heritage and grew up in North Dakota, graduating from high school in 1947. Following graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War.

After his military service, Kermit attended the University of North Dakota, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. He went on to enjoy a long and successful career as an engineer in the carbon products industry, spending many years with Union Carbide. Even after retirement, Kermit continued working with Helwig Carbon and later operated a computer business, reflecting his lifelong curiosity and love of technology.

A devoted man of faith, Kermit was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church and remained active in his church throughout his life. He found great joy in the outdoors, especially fishing and hunting, and enjoyed spending time tinkering with computers and learning new technologies.

On June 20, 1953, Kermit married the love of his life, Delores Ann Horter. Together they shared many happy years and raised six children. Family was always at the center of Kermit's life, and he treasured the time he spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Kermit is survived by his children, Paul (Teresa) Mason of Waterloo, Iowa; Cheryl (Bob) Hale of Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin; David (Teresa) Mason of Buckhannon, West Virginia; James (Gail) Mason of Poinciana, Florida; and Stephen (Betsy) Mason of Charleston, West Virginia; his brother, Richard (Sandy) Mason of East Moline, Illinois; nine grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Delores Ann Mason; his daughter, Kathy Mason, who passed away in 1962; his parents, Kermit Alton Mason Sr. and Lila Mason; his brothers, Gary and Vern Mason; and his sister, Carol Mueller.

Kermit will be remembered for his unwavering faith, dedication to family, service to his country, and the kindness and wisdom he shared with all who knew him. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the family he loved so dearly.

A visitation for Kermit will be held from 10:00 AM to Noon with a short prayer provided by Rev. Kristin Ostercamp at 11:45 AM on Tuesday, October 27, 2026 at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, MN. A graveside service will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Thief River Falls with military honors provided by American Legion Post 117, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2793, and Minnesota Army Nation Guard Funeral Honor Guard.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."