Dorothy C. Matson, age 102, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 5, 2018 at the Legacy Terrace in Lincoln, NE. she was born in New Virginia, IA on July 31, 1916 to George and Catherine Koser and was the beloved “little sister” to 4 older brothers. “Dodie”, as she was affectionately called by many, moved often in her childhood. Her father was a Methodist Pastor and was assigned to different churches every 2-3 years. She shared how difficult it was to move so often, especially as a teenager attending 4 different schools each of her 4 years of high school. After graduating from Central High School in Omaha, she attended Omaha University for two years. She then transferred to University of Nebraska in Lincoln where she met her future husband, Guy Matson. They were married on July 18, 1937.
Guy graduated from medical school and, eventually, set up practice in Lincoln. Dorothy settled in as a loving, supportive wife and mother of 3 active and growing children. First Methodist Church became very important in her life, having attended there as a young girl. She loved children and taught Sunday school and Bible school for many years, as well as being involved in church circle and volunteering in a variety of roles within the church. Dorothy and her seventh grade Sunday school class were instrumental in creating interest and funding for the development of Lincoln’s University Place Park. She also helped in the establishment of Lux Art Gallery in University Place.
Dorothy was an active member of P.E.O. Chapter V for many years and held several leadership positions in her chapter. She also served as President of the Nebraska State Medical Auxiliary where she was respected by members for, not only her efficiency and organization, but most especially for her friendly demeanor and her kindness and understanding towards others.
Dorothy was a loving, kind, and compassionate person who, by her example, taught her children and others the beauty of life. She loved music, the sound of children’s laughter, and artistic expression in all its various forms. She believed in the miracle of the smallest things and valued each moment as a gift to be lived. She saw the best in everyone.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Guy, her grandson, Cary Swanson, parents, and brothers, Merrill, Donald, Rollie, and Francis. She is survived by son Gary (Judy) of Milltown, Mont, daughter Susan (Mic) Pinquoch of Blair, daughter Wynne (Reece) Summers of Bozeman, Mont, 10 grandchildren, 8 step-grandchildren, many great grandchildren, several cousins, nieces, and nephews and special friend Joe Geist.
The family is extremely grateful to the kind and caring staff at the Legacy Terrace and Tabitha Hospice Care who provided so much love and gentleness to Dorothy during the final days of her life.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 3, 2018 at First United Methodist church. A private family burial will precede the Celebration of Life service.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Dorothy Matson’s memory may be made to First United Methodist Church Organ Renovation, Lux Center for the Arts, or donor’s choice.