Obituary of William Francis Matson

Passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 10, 2021 at Covenant HealthCare – Harrison. He was 89 years old. William Francis Matson was born on February 24, 1932 in Fremont, Michigan to the late Francis and Velma (Fowler) Matson. He graduated from Newago High School in 1950, where he played baseball, football and basketball. Bill furthered his education at Central Michigan University where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Teaching, and played baseball. He also received his Master’s Degree in Education from Western Michigan University. He started his teaching career in Montague, and was then drafted into the United States Army, serving during peacetime. Following his service, he married Jean Marie Iverson, and they were married on August 17, 1957. They celebrated 63 wonderful years together before her passing on September 9, 2020. Together Jean and Bill moved to the Saginaw area in the 1960’s and raised their three daughters. Bill taught biology within the Saginaw Township Schools. As his teaching career progressed, he became the Assistant Principal at Douglas McArthur. Bill retired in 1993, as the Principal of Weiss Elementary. Throughout his career he enjoyed coaching basketball for many years. Jean and Bill loved to spend time outdoors, canoeing, camping and spending time up north in Hoxeyville, Michigan. Bill loved to sing with the Harbor Sounds Barber Shop Chorus, ski, paddle and peddle. It brought him great joy to watch his grandchildren play sports. Bill is survived by his daughters: Shelley (Steve) Fox, Stacey (Lon) Woock and Valerie (Michael) Morley; grandchildren: Ian Dunscombe, Andrew (Laura) Dunscombe, Drew Woock, Kelly Woock, Beth Morley and Mitch Morley; great-grandchildren: Austin, Hunter and Blaze Dunscombe, Tanner and Raegan Dunscombe; brothers: Max Matson and Hugh (Jackie) Matson; sister, Joelyn (Millard) Stone; several nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Bill was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Jean Marie Matson; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Nancy and Jim Ooley; and his infant granddaughter. Bill’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to P.J., Pam, Sabrina and Deb for the wonderful care provided to both Jean and Bill over the past few years. MEMORIAL SERVICE: According to Bill’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private celebration of Bill and Jean’s lives will take place on Saturday, May 8, 2021. VISITATION: Family and friends will visit at Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State) on Saturday, May 8, 2021 from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. In keeping with mandated ordinances and for the safety of the community, face masks are required, social distancing, and gathering guidelines will be observed. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation to Saginaw Township Community School (STCS) Foundation Organization. Donations can be mailed to the Board Office, 3465 N. Center Road, Saginaw, MI 48603. Deisler Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Matson family. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com