Evelyn Matteson

Our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Evelyn Matteson, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 17, 2025, with her family by her side.

Evelyn was born at home on the family farm in Elkton on August 30, 1928, to William D. and Pearl (Honderick) Kraatz. She grew up in simpler times, before rural electrification and indoor plumbing, and her upbringing shaped her into the resilient, capable, and active woman she remained throughout her life. Evelyn had a gift for friendship and was loved by people everywhere she went.

A 1946 graduate and Valedictorian of Elkton High School, Evelyn went on to attend Central Michigan University, where she met and married James A. Matteson. Together, they welcomed their first child, James P., in 1949 and made their home in Frankenmuth, where James served as Superintendent of the Frankenmuth School District. Their family grew with the births of Debra L. in 1952 and Thomas W. in 1956. In 1960, the family returned to the Thumb area, where they welcomed Barbara J. and James began his new role as Superintendent of the newly formed Elkton-Pigeon-Bay Port School District.

In the late 1960s, the family purchased land near Elkton and developed Century Oaks Golf Course, which Evelyn managed for many years. She also worked with the Elkton Co-Op group and later at the newly developed terminal east of Elkton. Harvest season was her favorite time of year, she loved chatting with her many farming friends as the crops came in.

Evelyn had a lifelong passion for restoring antique furniture, spending countless hours bringing beauty back to old pieces. Her artistic eye extended to her love of collecting unique and interesting objects. In retirement, she and Jim shared many wonderful years traveling the world, visiting family and friends near and far.

Evelyn is survived by her children, James Matteson (Jill), Thomas Matteson (Hisami), and Barbara Matteson; grandchildren, Jodi, Jason, Kristi, Kori, Hannah, Paige, Erika, and Tyler; great-grandchildren, Blake, Greta, Jack, Gracie, Aiden, Asher, KC, Olivia, and Gordon; and her dearest friend and neighbor, Suzanne Bivens. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Pearl; sisters, Vanetta and Genevieve; husband, James; daughter, Debra; and infant grandson, Joshua.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Courtney Manor for their many years of compassionate care.

In keeping with Evelyn’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a celebration of her life will be held at a later date.