Obituary of Lois Ethel Raati Mattson

Lois Ethel Raati Mattson, 86, died peacefully on Nov. 2, 2019, in Duluth, Minn. She was born on July 14, 1933, to Esther and Elis Raati on the family farm along the St. Louis River in rural Gilbert. Lois attended school in Gilbert, except during WWII when her family lived and worked in Duluth. After graduating from Gilbert High School where she played flute, Lois earned a bachelor’s degree in Home Economics from UMD and was a County Home Agent for a couple of years in Douglas County, Wis.

On August 10, 1957, Lois married Martin L. Mattson of Markham. The couple moved into their first home, a former chicken coop, which with Martin’s carpentry talents, and Lois’ homemaking strengths, they transformed into a lovely 2-bedroom home with a basement. Lois developed a Pillsbury Bake-Off award-winning bread recipe in that kitchen. During Lois and Martin’s 58-year marriage, they lived in Duluth, Esko and on the Range in homes they built.

Lois was an artist and made and sold her work from a shop in her home and other venues, including an annual multi-artist show she organized called, “By Heart By Hand.” She was a founding member of the Creative Stitchers which turns 50 this year. She also belonged to the Duluth Needle Arts Guild, Arrowhead Home Economists, and her birthday group. She was an avid gardener and grew beautiful flower gardens.

Lois and Martin were members of the Minnesota Finnish-American Historical Society and Vihurit Finnish folk dancers. Lois sang in the Jarvenpaa Singers and made lastu with the Ladies of Kaleva. The couple also traveled to Finland several times.

Always animal lovers, the Mattsons’ memorable family pets were their dog Ralphie, and Lois’ cat, Kitty, who steadfastly made numerous moves with her in her final years.

Lois will be remembered for her warm heart, cheerful nature and her delicious pannukakku.

Lois is survived by Amy (Todd) Mattson Mackinaw of Fairbanks, Alaska, and Dr. Matthew Mattson of Hercules, Calif.; grandchildren Finn Mattson Mackinaw and Rose Mattson Mackinaw of Fairbanks, Alaska; cousins Philip Rannila of Cloquet, David Rannila and John L. Rannila of Texas; Daniel (Karen) Laakso, Kathryn Laakso-Keller, Gretchen (Tim Dubois) Laakso, and Steve (Debi) Laakso, all of Minn.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Martin on Jan. 14, 2016, and grandson Will Mattson Mackinaw.

A memorial service will be held Monday, November 18th at 3:00 pm at Cremation Society of Minnesota, 4100 Grand Avenue, Duluth, MN, with a visitation beginning 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Animal Allies of Duluth, Minn.