Walter Matson, 62

Walter William Matson passed away, surrounded by family, on Jan. 23, 2017, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Walter died suddenly after a heart attack at his home in Idaho Falls. Walter was born March 28, 1952, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, to parents, Dr. L. Walter and Patricia Matson.

He grew up with his family of 13 children next to St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church. He attended St. Thomas Catholic School and was third in his graduating class at Immaculate Heart of Mary Academy, one of the last classes to graduate before the school closed. Walter was a top debate team member. He was active in musical theater, starring in H.M.S. Pinafore. He enjoyed singing, playing trumpet and piano, and played on the high school football team. He loved to read and learn, sharing his vast knowledge with friends and family. He spent time building and creating with his dad including go carts. Walter had a great sense of humor and was always interested in how and what his many family members were doing.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. L. Walter and Patricia Matson; and brothers Thomas Joseph Matson and John Charles Matson. He is survived by siblings Ann Elgee of Liberty Lake, Wash., Mary Beth Grygny of Spokane, Wash., Dr. Ellen Jaeger (Jerry) of Coeur d’Alene, Patrice Ovstedal (Terry) of Edmonds, Wash., Kelly Matson (Joyce) of Mill Creek, Wash., Sara Shaw (Carl) of Coeur d’Alene, Margie Richey (J.C.) of Kennewick, Wash., David Matson of Altadena, Calif., Barry Matson of Glendale, Calif., and Christopher Matson of Coeur d’Alene; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial Mass will be offered at noon Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, by Father Mariusz Majewski, pastor of St. Thomas Church, with burial at a later date at St. Thomas Catholic Cemetery. Yates Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the St. Thomas Mission House Legacy Campaign, care of Carol White at St. Thomas Church.

You may visit Walter’s memorial and sign his online guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.