Michael A Mattison

STOUGHTON, Wis. - Michael A. Mattison, a long-time resident of Stoughton and a man known for his deep love of learning, community, and family, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at Azura Assisted Living. He was 85.

Born on July 17, 1939, in Marshfield, Wis., to Arthur and Grace (Giles) Mattison, he graduated from Marshfield High School in 1957.  Mike enlisted in the Wisconsin Army National Guard, serving from 1956-1959. Later, he attended Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato, Minn., where he earned an associate’s degree in mathematics.

It was in Madison, Wis., where Mike met his future wife, Frances “Kay” Schaeffer. They married in 1967, and soon began a life together in Stoughton, where they built their first and only home. The couple raised two children in Stoughton, a place Mike proudly called home for 56 years.

He began his career in education as math teacher, and he later transitioned into the Madison Metropolitan School District's central office, where he led the district’s audio-visual repair team. After further exploring his interests, Mike became an audiologist, a profession he would continue until retirement. In his later years, he found joy in a part-time role as a driver for Stoughton Cab, a position appreciated for the opportunity it gave him to visit with members of the community.

Outside of work, Mike was an avid reader and collector. His curiosity spanned from the details of unusual coins to the study of maps, always eager to discover something new. He found particular joy in sharing the beauty of Wisconsin with others.  Mike loved a brandy old fashioned-sweet, a good deal, hot summer sunshine, a Culver’s hamburger, fireworks in July, and the laughter of others.

Those who knew Mike remember him for his quiet dignity and thoughtfulness.   He was stubborn and easygoing, anxious and patient; a devoted father and grandfather, and a true gentle man.  His children, Charles (Kathy) Mattison and Sarah (Mickey) Buhl, along with his grandchildren, Samuel, Chloe, and Robinson, will carry forward the legacy of his kind spirit.  

In addition to his children and grandchildren, Mike is survived by his sister, Jeannine Schol; and many well-loved cousins, nieces, and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Kay; his grandchild, Annie Buhl; his sister, Nancy Gage; and his brothers-in-law, Herbert Schol and Arden Gage. A celebration of his life will be held at a future date.

Thank you to Azura, Agrace Hospice, and the Stoughton Senior Center for their support.  Special thanks to Roger, Bernadette, and Pam. Donations to the Stoughton Senior Center can be made in Mike’s memory stoughtonseniorcenter.com/donate.

Condolences to the family may be shared at www.gundersonfh.com or Gunderson Stoughton Funeral & Cremation Care, 1358 Highway 51 N. at Jackson St. Stoughton, WI 53589