Howard Byron “Howie” Matteson, age 84, passed away peacefully on July 7th, 2020 at his home in Butte, surrounded by his loving family. He was born August 15th, 1935 in Penn, North Dakota to Roy and Violet (Nelson) Matteson. He was the middle of three sons. Howard attended a one-room school from which he graduated the eighth grade. Needing to work the farm, he never got the opportunity to graduate from high school. Looking to find work at the mines, his father moved the family to Butte. It was here where Howard met the love of his life, Doreen Williams. They married on February 25, 1955 and together raised three sons, three daughters, and his sister-in-law Sandy.
Howard began his working life as a bellhop at the Leggat Hotel. Then, became a parts man at Wellman Motors. Next, he became a welder at Victor Chemical. Later, he worked as a boilermaker at the Anaconda Company and also assisted his wife at Doreen’s Family Restaurant. What a welder he was!
Howard enjoyed watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in numerous sporting events. He especially enjoyed the sport of rodeo and travelling around. Howard was a long-time member of The Fraternal Order of Eagles, serving as President and Treasurer. He was chosen as Eagle Father of the year in 1994.
Howard is preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Violet; brothers, Richard and Wayne; and daughter in-law, Lola. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Doreen; sons, Howard Roy, Ray (Fran), Rob (Lucretia); daughters, Wanda Jean (Alan) Olson, Rhonda Joan (Joe) Ruckdaschel, Debbie Matteson; sisters-in-law, Sandy (Lester) Thiessen and Lily (Darold) Pansch. Howard is also survived by his grandchildren; JW, Leta, Jeremy, Lacee, Logan, Tori, Doris, Kenny, Matt, Erika, Kristen, Krystal, Paul, Chantal, Tina, Rob and Shaquille. He is also survived by 29 great-grandchildren.
Howard will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of services, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Announcement will be made after arrangements are completed. Memorials may be made to Diabetes Association, Parkinson’s Foundation, or donor’s choice.
Please visit below to offer a condolence or share a memory of Howard. Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Howard and his family.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Share
LeeRoy says
Dear Doreen and family
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. HOWIE, WAS THE MOST KINDEST, EASY GOING PERSON WHO TRULY LOVED HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS. HOWIE WILL BE MISSED AND I PRAY FOR PEACE FOR YOUR FAMILY. WE WILL ALL MEET AGAIN GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
Judy Collins Chadwick says
Doreen and Family,
I was sad to hear of Howie’s passing. I know your hearts are heavy, may it give you comfort to remember Howie passed with the secure knowledge he was loved by all of you. He was a good man. Doreen, I remember so clearly how whenever I saw the two of you shopping etc., he always held onto your arm like you were the greatest treasure of his life….and I know you were.
I pray for Peace like a river to flow over all of you and give you solace.
Diane Burns Powers and Jean Burns says
Please accept our condolences for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family