Lu Mattson

LuVerda Mattson, 90, passed away the morning of Thursday, March 20, 2008 at the St. John Lutheran Home in Springfield, MN. Mrs. Mattson was afflicted with Alzheimer's disease and entered the nursing home after suffering a broken hip in 2001. She had shown no signs of illness until the morning of her death when she came down with a fever. LuVerda Maragetha Ella Puchta was born June 28, 1917 to Charles and Sarah (Brown) Puchta in Stately Township, Minnesota. She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Faith. Her education was received at district #71, Stately Township Country School in Sanborn. As a young woman she held a job as a housekeeper for various citizens, notably Rev. John Gresham and his wife. On April 18, 1939, in the midst of a snow storm, LuVerda exchanged vows with Donald E. Mattson at the St. John Lutheran Church in Springfield, MN. Throughout their fifty-eight years of marriage, Verda and Don made their home in Springfield. This union was blessed with five children. Mrs. Mattson was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, the Leah Circle, and the Springfield American Legion Auxiliary. Some of her favorite pastimes included gardening, bird watching cheering on Kirby Puckett and the Minnesota Twins, and playing cards. She also loved to travel. She went on many vacations all over the U.S. and one to Mexico with her husband, and friends. She is survived by three daughters and one son; Gloria Tillma and husband Bob of Chippewa Falls, WI, Gary Mattson and wife Lois of Springfield, Judy Niemela and husband Harry of Chaska, and Linda Mattson of Sleepy Eye; one brother, Gilbert Puchta and wife Marlys of Ankeny, IA; two sisters, Vera Renner of Springfield and Lucille Martius of Byron; several nieces and nephews, twelve grandchildren; and ten great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband; one daughter, Carol Matter; one sister, Gertrude Roiger; and one brother, Melvin Puchta. LuVerda was a kind and sweet woman held in high regard by all who knew her. She will remain in our hearts forever.