Merri A. Matteson

Merri A. (Edgar) Matteson, 74, of Clear Lake, died Friday, Jan. 13, 2023, at MercyOne North Iowa Hospice after several months of declining health.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan 20, at the Bethel United Methodist Church, 503 East South Street, Manly, with the Pastor Cory Allard officiating. A graveside service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday at the Clear Lake Cemetery.

Visitation will be 5-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 19, at Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 310 1st Ave. North, Clear Lake.  Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church. 

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made to MercyOne North Iowa Hospice, the American Cancer Society or the Bethel United Methodist Church in Manly.

Merri Ann Edgar was born on Feb. 5, 1948, in Mason City, daughter of Roland and Bonnie (Alitz) Edgar. She graduated from North Central High School in 1966. After high school she began her career as a bookkeeper.

On March 31, 1984, Merri married the love of her life, John Matteson. She became an instant parent to Juli and Joel and loved them as her own since day one.

Merri was employed by several companies around north Iowa through the years but last worked for and retired from Woodford Lumber in Clear Lake.

Merri enjoyed baking treats for her friends and neighbors, crafting, and gardening - her latest fascination was coloring in intricate coloring books. She spent many a meditative hour with her colorful pens and mandalas, often staying up into the wee hours of the night coloring.

Merri was loved and supported by a strong network of siblings, nieces and nephews, friends and neighbors. She will be missed by so many, including her two Australian Terriers, Pinky and Molly.

Merri is survived by her daughter, Juli Hill (Jon) Fort Worth, Texas; son, Joel Matteson (Erin) and granddaughter, Hendley, Keller Texas; siblings, Curtis Edgar (Helga) of Lexington S.C.; Karen Eppens, Mason City; Bev Rasmuson (Tom) Garner; Pat Edgar, Mason City; Jay Edgar (Carolyn) Manly; along with other relatives and friends.

Merri was preceded in death by her parents, husband and two brothers-in-law.

Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of arrangements.