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Michael Curtis "Mike" Mattison

October 24, 1962 - June 18, 2020


Michael Curtis Mike was born and raised in Salem, OR.  He graduated from Chemeketa Community College with a degree in Fire Suppression, and became a volunteer firefighter.  He later continued his career as a driver for Western Beverage, spending his last 21 years at Cherriots as a Transit Operator and Driver Instructor.
            Mike had many hobbies including playing racquetball, listening to music, and riding his Harley with his favorite tunes blaring. He played racquetball with his friends at the Courthouse, where his competitive nature often prompted some serious smack talk regarding who was the better player! Everyone knew Mike as a jokester, a prankster and a maker of bad puns. He kept everyone around him smiling with his mischievous personality; including teaching his two grandchildren silly faces which he felt was his responsibility as their Papaw.
            Mike was married to the love of his life, Karen Mattison.  Horseback riding was a passion they shared together; their most memorable ride was a horse camping trip where he proposed. 
They were devoted to each other, and enjoyed spending time with their family and friends.           Mike passed away in Salem, OR, at the age of 57 due to complications from cancer. He was preceded in death by parents William Mattison and Shirley Gillespie.  He is survived by his wife Karen Mattison, siblings Scott Mattison, Connie Brown and Cindy Ward, stepbrother Ron Stoutenburg, son Jacob Mattison, twin daughters Hannah Mattison & Holly Condley, stepdaughters Jessica Spangler and Tiffany Eder, and two grandchildren Clayre & Devyn Spangler.  
 Donations in Mike’s memory can be made to the International Myeloma Foundation at www.myeloma.org

 

A Celebration of Mikes life will be held on Sunday, July 26, 2020 at 3:00 PM at Morning Star Community Church.  Please dress casually or wear motorcycle apparel.

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We will miss our times together more than words can express.....you boys were trouble looking for a place to happen.  Karen and I were there in case you needed to be bailed out! LOL . Luvs.....


Brother Mike is gone too soon. The four of us have gotten so close through the years had great  RVing trips boating and crabbing at the coast. We were going to Sturgis motorcycle rally when he got sick. I’m so upset we didn’t get to do that together. We were so alike that we loved to ride together on our Harleys  But we will ride again in eternity  Until then


Everytime I see Mike's picture, it's difficult to believe he's gone. Mike was so alive and energetic, even his pictures have the appearance that they'll come to life with Mike's laughter. I love the way Mike loved Karen and how proudly he showed his love and faithfulness to her. Mike was a pleasure to work with and to know. Mike was always willing to help someone in need, had a big heart, and an ear to listen. Mike was a good man who will surely be missed.


My deepest and sincerest condolences to Karen and everyone in Mike's family. Looking at the photos I know he was dearly loved! My heart hurts for you all and I will be praying for you all!