Donald Willis Mattila

He was born on March 2, 1936, in Laurium, to the late William and Allie (Koopika) Mattila.

Willis worked for much of his life in the copper mines and enjoyed sharing his interest in the history of the Copper Country. He was known for his love of fishing, hunting, and spending time at the camp in Lac La Belle.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Alberta (Sakkinen) Mattila; his son, Robert “Boomer” Mattila; his daughter-in-law, Lynn Mattila; three brothers, Robert, Edward “Carl”, and Earl; three sisters, Aileen, Barbara, and Norma; and his beloved dog, Kia.

He is survived by his brother, Ralf Mattila of South Lyon; four daughters and two sons, Barbara Lynn Simons of Calumet, Kathy Meyers of Laurium, Karen (Mark) Dyni of Rabbit Bay, Donald (Cathleen) Mattila of Mohawk, Julie (Joe) Farrell of Colorado Springs, Jim Mattila of Phillipsville; daughter-in-law, Joselyn Mattila of Calumet; his 13 grandchildren, Melissa Couvion, Tanya Couvion, Bryan Mattila, Amy Mattila, Jason Mattila, Jared Mattila, Steven Simons, Christopher Farrell, Nicholas Farrell, Justin Farrell, Jacob Mattila, Sophia Mattila, and Carl Regis; along with numerous great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

He will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts.

Per Willis’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no public services will be held.

Online condolences for the family may be left at ericksoncrowleypeterson.com.