Solveig "Sally" J. Mathison

Solveig "Sally" J. Mathison, 91, of rural Westby, died Saturday September 25, 2010 at Norseland Nursing Home in Westby where she had been a resident since May. She was born January 18, 1919 in Coon Township to Henry and Tena (Krokum) Gjefle. Sally was baptized, confirmed and a life long member at the Coon Valley Lutheran Church. She married Chester Mathison on February 10, 1945 at the Coon Valley Lutheran Parsonage by Rev. H.O. Bach. The couple farmed their married life in Coon Township. Sally was active at church, the South Ridge Circle and WELCA where she was the leader of the funeral committee for many years. Sally worked at Norskedalen for many years and also enjoyed rosemaling which she did for over 30 years.

Survivors include 2 daughters Joanne (Harlan) Lomen and Pam (Dennis) Olson both of Westby; a special grandson Kevin Mathison; grandchildren Teresa Lomen, Damian (Stephanie) Olson, Brian (Jenny) Olson and Sarah (Mark) Erickson; great grandchildren Elise and Ben Olson and Lauren Olson; step-grandchildren Michael and Luke Shumway and Alex Miller; sisters-in-law Elmera and Arleen Gjefle and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Chester in 1981; a two year old daughter Joan Olive Gjefle in 1941; 4 brothers Oscar, Leland, Burton and George Gjefle and 3 sisters Aletha Midtlien, Borghild Peterson and Lucille Maxim.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday September 30, 2010 at the Coon Valley Lutheran Church. Rev. Mitzi Miyamoto will officiate with burial in the church cemetery. Friends may call on Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Seland Funeral Home in Coon Valley and at the church on Thursday from 10 a.m. until service time. Online condolences at selandsfuneralhome.com.

Memorials may be given to the Coon Valley Lutheran Church, the Bethel Butikk or the charity of your choice.

A special thank you to the staff at Norseland Nursing Home for their compassion and wonderful care.