Melvin J. Mattson, 84, died Saturday, February 12, 2005 at Kittson Memorial Healthcare Center, Hallock, MN.

Melvin J. Mattson was born April 6, 1920, on the family farm, the same farm where his father was born, the son of Math H. and Johanna (Erickson) Mattson. He was baptized and confirmed into the Christian Faith. He grew up and attended country school. As a young adult he worked for Collins Construction out of Fargo, ND. He enjoyed planting evergreens and trees with his Dad and brother. Melvin continued planting trees throughout his life. They started the Mattson Tree Planting Service.

Melvin entered the United States Army during World War II and served on the Island of Trinidad and helped guard the Panama Canal. He served his country for 4 years and 10 days as a heavy equipment instructor.

On March 21, 1951, Melvin was united in marriage to Avis Bakke. The couple lived a short time in South Dakota where Melvin worked in the gold mines, then returned to Thief River Falls and worked road construction. They eventually made their home in Newfolden where they have continued to reside. He worked road construction throughout the area and was fortunate to have his family travel with him alot. He also worked on the missile sites in North Dakota. Melvin and his brother, Wally worked in the Newfolden area on many water and sewer projects. He really enjoyed life and work. On January 15, 1998, he entered Karlstad Nursing Home where he continued to live.

Melvin was a member of Evangelical Free Church and Middle River American Legion Post. He enjoyed fishing, deer hunting and making rugs. He and Avis demonstrated rug weaving at Marshall County Fairs in Warren for many years. He especially loved spending time with his grandkids. He was a people person , always enjoying visiting with family and friends and friends he had not yet met.

Survived by wife, Avis, Newfolden, MN; 6 children, Helen (Richard) Flodstrom, Swift Falls, MN, David Johnson, Thief River Falls, MN, Bev Johnson, Crookston, MN, Marti (Rod) Benson, Benson, MN, Marlin (Sue) Mattson, Newfolden, MN and LaVonne Vonnie (Roger) Schmitz, Newfolden, MN; 15 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren and 1 great great-grandchild; a sister, Violet Tjosaas, Granite Falls, MN and brother, Wally Mattson, Middle River, MN.

Preceded in death by parents, sister, Evelyn Tjosaas, son-in-law, Randy Johnson, brothers-in-law, Hans and Walter Tjosaas.