Arlene Matson, age 98, passed away into the Lord’s loving arms on September 25, 2024, at her home in Albert Lea. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, family and service.

Arlene Matson

Arlene Mae Matson was born on March 3, 1926, at her family farm home in Brush Creek Township. She was baptized at home by Reverend O.B. Tofte and confirmed at North Blue Earth Lutheran by Reverend H.K. Narom.

She graduated from Bricelyn High School in 1944, Luther College in Decorah, IA in 1948, and Mankato State College with a graduate degree in 1961. Arlene taught 4th grade in Redwood Falls, MN from 1948-1951, taught in Fairmont, MN from 1951-1956 and in Albert Lea, MN from 1956-1986. Upon retirement, Arlene was recognized by District 241 for being the second full-time elementary principal and serving with distinction in eight of the district’s elementary schools. Her leadership, dedication, and concern for and appreciation of children were recognized.

Arlene was active at North Blue Earth as a Vacation Bible School teacher, Sunday School teacher and superintendent, she was recognized in 2002 for 47 years of faithful service to North Blue Earth Sunday School; she was active in L.D.R., Luther League, Church Council, and Ladies Aid. In addition, she served her church at the conference and synod level.

Arlene held membership in Delta Kappa Gamma including serving as MN state president from 1987-1989, A.A.U.W., Sons of Norway (50-year membership recognition), P.T.A., teacher organizations both active and retired, Faribault and Freeborn County Historical Societies. She was an active member and officer of Lutheran Brotherhood and Thrivent and hosted many bus trips for them.

Arlene traveled extensively after her retirement and revisited several times the countries of her ancestors. She was our family historian, culminating her extensive research Arlene wrote and published genealogies for all four of her grandparents.

Arlene was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar Alfred Matson and Constannia “Stannia” (Asmus) Matson; brother, Harvey Gayle; sister-in-law, Kathryn Parker Johnson Matson; and a step-nephew, Robert “Buzzy” Johnson. She is survived by step-niece, Judy (Stanley) Stover; step-nieces and nephews, Randy Stover, Richard Stover, Sandra Stover Hanna, Scott Johnson, Jill Johnson Walsch, Lori Johnson Linsmeier and their families.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00PM on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services, in Albert Lea with a visitation beginning at 12:00PM. Burial will be held in North Blue Earth Cemetery in Bricelyn, MN. The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed by visiting www.BonnerupFuneralService.com