Milan B. Mathison

Milan Benjemen Mathison was born in Hendricks, MN on March 25, 1935 to Paul and Karen (nee Setering) Mathison. He was the middle son of three boys. At the age of seven, the family moved to Minneapolis, where he graduated from South High School in 1953. Following graduation, Milan went to work as a clerk for the Soo Line Railroad, which was later bought out by the Canadian Pacific Railroad. He was a hardworking and loyal employee for 42 years. In 1957, Milan married the love of his life, Dawn (nee Clark). To their union, three daughters were born, Kathleen Karen, Cindy Louise, and Linda Marie. Milan had a love and a passion for following all kinds of sports. If he was not out golfing or making his lawn look like a golf course, you could usually find him in his recliner cheering on whichever Minnesota sport happened to be in season. Following his retirement in 1996, Milan and Dawn would venture south to Texas for a few months in the winter for more golfing and a little rest and relaxation. Milan was a man of few words, but when he spoke, you would listen. He was a very honest man full of wisdom and a heart filled with love, especially for his family. His children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren meant the world to him. He lived a simple life, nothing too extravagant or flashy. Nevertheless, when it came to his family, he wanted nothing but the best for them. He would instantly drop everything to lend a hand or to offer advice. Milan was also greatly known for his sense of humor. He could turn any bad day into a good one with his quick wit and many jokes. He loved teasing his grandkids. After his wife passed on April 3, 2019, he lost half of his heart. They were true soulmates that longed to be together again. On May 2, 2019, Milan passed away at the Knute Nelson Care Facility in Alexandria, MN. He was 84 years old. Milan was preceded in death by his Loving Wife of 61 years, Dawn Mathison; Daughter, Cindy Mathison; Granddaughters, Ashley VanAusdle and Mylinda VanAusdle; Parents, Paul and Karen (nee Setering) Mathison; Brother, Neil Mathison. Milan will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his Daughters, Kathleen (Francis) Sanders of Anoka, Linda (Todd) Hocum of Alexandria; Grandchildren, Andrew VanAusdle, Crystal VanAusdle, Tara VanAusdle, Nate Sanders, Jenny Sanders, Tyann Amundsen, Paige (Andrew) Wascher, and Hayley Hocum; 14 Great-grandchildren; Brother, Kyle (Sharyl) Mathison; many Nieces, Nephews, extended Family and Friends. ~Funeral Service~ Thursday, May 16th at 11AM with visitation one hour prior at Christ Lutheran Church 641 89th Ave NE Blaine, Minnesota ~Evening Visitation~ Wednesday, May 15th from 5-7PM at Gearhart Funeral Home 11275 Foley Blvd NW Coon Rapids, Minnesota ~Interment~ Morningside Memorial Gardens Coon Rapids, Minnesota Gearhart 763-755-6300 www.GearhartFuneralHome.com