Robert E “Bob” Matson
March 27, 1932 – October 9, 2023.
Bob passed away of natural causes on the evening of October 9, 2023, at his beloved home in Butte, Montana. He was 91 years old. Bob was the youngest of four children born to Robert and Lempi Matson on his grandparent’s homestead in Carbon County, Montana. Bob attended public school in Red Lodge and Cle Elum Washington and graduated from Red Lodge High School in 1950.
After high school, Robert enlisted in the United States Air Force and served as an air crewman on the Boeing B-29 Super Fortress. He was honorably discharged in 1954. Bob developed a lifelong love of aviation from his Air Force service.
Bob attended the University of Montana from 1955 through 1960, earning a BA and MS degree in Geology. He was employed as a geologist in both the private and public sector and was a member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists and the Montana Geological Society. Bob presented numerous papers at regional meetings of the AAPG and at coal symposiums on coal resources. His work as a consulting geologist continued well into his 70s.
Bob’s love of aviation led him to earn a commercial pilot’s certificate with an instrument rating. He owned multiple aircraft and was a founding member of the Marathon Flying Club in Butte. He enjoyed attending airshows – a yearly highlight was an annual trip to the Reno National Championship Air Races with his son Stephen.
Bob was very proud of his Finnish heritage and was a lifetime member of the Kaleva Finnish Lodge. He was also a longtime member and past president of the Gold Hill Lutheran Church.
Bob is preceded in death by his daughter Melanie Matson and stepdaughter Susan Sansouci. He is survived by his wife of 52 years Ruth Matson, son Stephen Matson, grandson James Matson and granddaughters Emma and Nora Sansouci and stepson Mark (Jill) Sansouci.
The family is planning spring graveside services in Red Lodge. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions to Gold Hill Lutheran Church.
Please visit below to offer a condolence or share a memory of Bob. Axelson Funeral & Cremation Services is privileged to care for Bob and his family.
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Vincent tonc says
Bob and Ruth have been great neighbors and friends. God rest his soul. Vince and Sheila tonc
Denise Horne says
I’m so sorry for your loss, Ruth. I loved visiting with Bob and Leo when we had Bella. Bella would wait in the window for Leo and Bob was nice enough to stop and let them play. Memory Eternal! Denise and Kevin Horne
Gregg Mortensen says
Rest in peace, Uncle Bob. We are very sorry for Ruth and the family for his passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Gregg Mortensen (Nephew) and wife Jill, Bozeman
Jeff Mortensen, Bob's nephew says
Fond memories of Uncle Bob, who always took a strong interest in my mother Roberta, his older sister, and her family. Our condolences for his loss.
Mary Anne Hansen says
Rest in peace, Uncle Bob. You led an amzaning life and left a great legacy. Peace and love to you, Ruth, Stephen, and Mark. With love, your niece, Mary Anne Hansen
Julie Henrich says
I’m so sorry to read about the loss of Bob, Ruth. I fondly remember him working with us years ago at Entech Oil Division. My sympathy to you & your family.