Wilma Ann Matthiesen

Wilma Ann (Dotson) Matthiesen passed away on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at the age of 89 years. She was born on October 17, 1936 to William H. Dotson and Zora Francis (Shields) Dotson in Chehalis, Washington. Wilma was a longtime resident of Lewis County, spending just a few childhood years in Oregon. She graduated from W.F. West High School in 1954. The same year, on December 4, she married Gene R. Matthiesen. They raised three children together: one son (Jeff Gene) and two daughters (Kim Marie and Jill Ann).

Together in their 69 years of marriage, Gene and Wilma built a thriving farm business. Wilma managed the books and Gene worked the farm. Wilma supported her family through multiple jobs including homemaker, photo developer, church secretary and insurance bookkeeper. Later she owned and operated a small business, Party Papers, in downtown Chehalis with her sister (Linda).

Wilma created a home that welcomed drop-in visits and many celebrations. She loved a good chat and time spent with loved ones. As her children grew, the family made many trips to local beaches and lakes. In later years, Gene and she often visited Long Beach, Washington.

Wilma was a member of the Lewis County Dairy Wives and First Christian Church. She was an avid reader, rabbit handler and antique collector.

Wilma is preceded in death by her husband Gene Matthiesen; parents William and Zora Dotson; sister Linda Dotson; son and daughter-in-law Jeff and Micki Matthiesen; nephew Jed Boles; and brother-in-law Ronald Burton.

She is survived by her two daughters Kim (John) Hagara and Jill (Ron) Lambert; six grandchildren Jake Lambert, John Hagara, Raymond Lambert, Katie Hagara, Veronica Wike, and Cody Lambert; 11 great-grandchildren; niece Jody Cate; and nephew Mark Boles; and several grand nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held at Sticklin Funeral Chapel, 1437 S. Gold Street, Centralia, WA 98531, on March 21, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Sticklin Funeral Chapel, 1437 S. Gold Street, Centralia, WA 98531, on March 21, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.