August 6, 1930 – March 31, 2026_______________________________________
Eugene “Gene” Mattern, 95, of Aberdeen passed away March 31, 2026, at Avera St. Luke’s Hospital in Aberdeen.
Mass of Christian Burial was held April 8, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church.
Interment with Military Honors was at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. Schriver’s Memorial Mortuary & Crematory was in charge of arrangements.
Gene was born in Glencross to Conrad and Caroline (Welder) Mattern on August 6, 1930. He was raised and attended school in McIntosh and spent many of his early years working in the family general store.
In 1951, Gene enlisted in the U.S. Army. He was a proud veteran and served in Korea as a Sergeant 1st Class directing artillery operations. He was awarded a Bronze Star Medal and received the Ambassador for Peace Medal. He served in the Army Reserves until 1959.
He met his future wife, Eileen, at a dance; they were married in August 1953.
Gene’s 43-year professional career was with the SD Department of Transportation. He held positions in Selby and Aberdeen and retired in 1992 as the district engineer.
Volunteering and service to others were important values in his life. He was active as a volunteer fireman, a 50-year member of the American Legion, parish council representative, church lector, member of Knights of Columbus, Meals on Wheels volunteer, 22-year volunteer at Avera St. Luke’s Hospital, and was recognized for donating over 20 gallons of blood. The Catholic faith was a central part of his life.
During his retirement years, he and Eileen enjoyed traveling throughout the country. They especially enjoyed the bus trips, where many new friends were made, and the family cruises.
Gene is survived by his five children: James (Lu Ann) Mattern, Mary (Jerry) Sandmeier, Kathy (Jeffrey) Krause, Barb (Rick) Grieben, and Jane (Kurt) Reder; brother Paul (Loretta) Mattern; sister Barbara (Ted) Walker; 10 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Eileen Mattern; his parents; brothers Frank, Peter, John, and Bernard; and sisters Anna, Lena, and Elvina.