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Dorothy C. Matson, 102, passed away peacefully on Friday, Oct. 5, 2018, at the Legacy Terrace in Lincoln.

She was born in New Virginia, Iowa, on July 31, 1916, to George and Catherine Koser and was the beloved "little sister” to four older brothers, affectionately called "Dodie.” Her father was a Methodist pastor and they moved often, she attended four different high schools. She graduated from Central High, attended Omaha University for two years, transferred to University of Nebraska in Lincoln where she met her husband, Guy Matson. They were married on July 18, 1937.

Guy graduated from medical school and set up practice in Lincoln. Dorothy was a loving, supportive wife and mother of three active and growing children. First Methodist Church became very important in her life, she loved children, taught Sunday and Bible schools for many years. She was very involved in church circle and volunteering. 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 helped establish the Lux Art Gallery in University Place.

Dorothy was an active member of P.E.O. Chapter V and held many leadership positions. She 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, compassionate person, by example she taught her children and others, the beauty of life. She loved music, children's laughter, and artistic expression in all its various forms. She believed in the miracle of the smallest things, valued each moment as a gift and saw the best in everyone.

She was preceded in death by her husband; grandson, Cary Swanson; parents; and her brothers, Merrill, Donald, Rollie, and Francis. She is survived by her son, Gary (Judy) of Milltown, Mont.; daughters, Susan (Mic) Pinquoch of Blair, Wynne (Reece) Summers of Bozeman, Mont., 10 grandchildren, 8 step-grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, and nephews and special friend, Joe Geist.

Memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018 at First United Methodist church in Lincoln, 2723 N. 50 St. 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.

~~~ Obituary courtesy of the Washington County Genealogical Society. Newspaper clippings on file in the Blair Public Library at Blair, Nebraska.~~~