Donald Wilmer Mattern, 81, of Great Falls, passed away Monday, May 15, 2017 in hospice care. A private family service will be held at a later date. Cremation has been entrusted to Croxford Funeral Home.

Donald was born March 25, 1936 in Minot, North Dakota to Clarence and Violet Mattern.  He left school at a young age to help support his family. In his career, he worked many jobs. Donald was a pin setter at Littles Lanes when he was young. In his primary years, he provided for his family as a mechanic, feed mill worker, wood cutter and worked for Great Northern Railroad. Donald was married to Crystal Ann Gillette until they divorced in 2004.  He was known for his sense of humor and his good advice.

Donald was comfortable in the woods or in a shop. He loved riding motorcycles and fixing cars as well as hunting and fishing. You could often find him at home with his children and grandchildren watching old westerns, especially John Wayne.

Donald is survived by sons, Lee, Michael, Roger, Ricky: daughter, Heather Mattern, as well as five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Preceding him in death are his parents; brother, Alvin Mattern, and two sisters.

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