Robert “Bob” G. Matson, 96 of Ashtabula went peacefully to his heavenly reward Friday (Nov. 24th) at the Ashtabula County Medical Center. Amazingly active to the end, he was born January 7, 1921 in Ashtabula, the youngest child of John P. and Anna E. (Ekstrom) Matson and has been a lifetime area resident.

Always eager for adventure, at age 18, he and his cousin took their bikes on the train west and biked through Yellowstone and other places with under $20 in their pockets. He worked for a short time at the State Department in DC. He was a veteran of the US Navy during World War II serving as an airplane mechanic.

He married Dolores J. Strong on July 24, 1948. Together they raised four children to respect God, family, and life. He was employed by the Ashtabula Post Office for thirty years as a mail carrier, clerk, civil service examiner, and rural mail carrier until his retirement. He was also a piano tuner and technician for over twenty years, combining his love of music and service, until his tremor made it impossible.  He was an inspiration to all who knew him, always accomplishing what he needed to do in spite of obstacles.

Bob was born into First Covenant Church in Ashtabula, and he served tirelessly in every aspect of the church.  He was on many committees, led the choir, taught Sunday School, was on the church council and attended all services faithfully. He also served on the board of the Samaritan House.  He enjoyed sports like golf and tennis, and was “game” to play any game suggested by his grandkids (usually winning).  He was always the first choice for a teammate! 

Surviving him is his wife of 69 years; four children, Jack (Tish Miller) Matson of Arlington, MA, Bryan J. Matson of Santa Barbara, CA, Jeffrey R. (Cathy) Matson of Charlotte, NC and Cheryl J. (Craig) Wickstrom of North Kingsville; ten grandchildren: Haley, Kai, Dana, Brett, Chad, Kate, Aaron, Nathan, Benjamin and Elin; and eight great grandchildren: Jacob, Isabella, Lukas, Nissa, Colby, Brady, Dashiell, and Stellan. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Lillian Hogan and Reseda Nelson and three brothers, Rudolph, William and Julius Matson.

Calling hours will be  Saturday (Dec. 9th) from 11 AM to 1 PM at the First Covenant Church, 3300 Carpenter Rd, Ashtabula.  A memorial service with Rev. Bruce Wyand officiating will follow at 1:00 PM. Burial will be in Edgewood Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions can be made to First Covenant Church in his memory.

The Ashtabula Home of Fleming & Billman Funeral Directors, 526 W. Prospect Rd. Ashtabula is honored to serve the Bob Matson family.

 Service Information