John Wayne Mattila

He was born in Hancock, MI, on Dec. 28, 1955, the son of Uno and Impi (Koupus) Mattila. John was a graduate of Jeffers High School. On Dec. 20, 1991, John was married to the former Sara O’Connell in Houghton. John worked several different jobs, including positions with Rugoni’s, Wells Fargo, and part-time at Rangetowne Apartments and Agate Beach. He was proud of his time with the Adams Township Fire Department. An avid outdoorsman, John loved spending his time hunting, fishing, and camping. John will be remembered as a strong and loving man with a bit of stubborn side but always willing to lend a helping hand.

John will be deeply missed by his wife, Sara Mattila; 2 sons, Phillip and Kevin Mattila; 2 siblings, Shirley (Roger) Savela and Uno Mattila Jr. (Chain Wei); half-brother, George (Midge) Paavo; special nephew, Jamison Riopelle; very special niece, Terinna Crowder; close family friend, Matthew Geronimi; and many other family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents and 4 half-siblings, Doris (Bob) Louden, Martha (John) Poul, Roberta Kupri, and Ray Paavo. A graveside service will be held at South Range Cemetery at 3 p.m. on Friday July 25, 2025, followed by a celebration of life at the Wildlife Refuge Cabins.

John’s family would like to thank the ICU staff at Marshfield Medical Center – Dickinson for their care and support during this difficult time. Condolences may be expressed to the family of John Wayne Mattila online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com or mailed to Sara Mattila at P.O. Box 821 Iron Mountain, MI 49801.

The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the arrangements