Stuart Arthur Mattson

Stuart Arthur Mattson, 58, of Grand Forks, North Dakota, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, March 19, 2026.

Stuart was born on April 19, 1967, to Charles and Gail (Smallwood) Mattson and was raised in Gilbert, Minnesota. He was a 1985 graduate of Eveleth High School and later graduated from the University of North Dakota. Growing up on the Iron Range, he carried with him a strong sense of loyalty, grit, and connection to community that stayed with him throughout his life.

For the past 40 years, Stuart made his home in Grand Forks, where he built a life rooted in hard work and lasting relationships. He dedicated over 30 years to Dakota Sales, where he was known for his commitment, dependability, and the pride he took in his work. On his sales route, Stuart brought a great smile and a genuinely happy presence to every stop, making each customer feel valued and important. He built genuine connections along the way, leaving a lasting impression everywhere he went.

Stuart was an avid hockey fan and a die-hard Sioux supporter. He proudly served as an off-ice official for UND hockey, staying closely connected to the game and the community he loved. Every season, without fail, Stuart would confidently remind everyone, “this is going to be their year—they’re really deep,” a phrase that became a signature part of his enthusiasm.

More than anything, Stuart had a deep love and unwavering commitment to his family—especially his nieces and nephews. Ashley was the first to make Stuart an uncle and God Father, officially earning him the title of “Uncle Stu,” a role he carried with pride and joy throughout his life. Their bond was something truly special—she was so lucky to have him, and he absolutely adored her. He rarely missed a chance to watch his nephews play while they were growing up, and over the years became a familiar and valued part of their hockey family. Whether cheering them on or offering hockey advice (sometimes a little beyond their level of play), Stuart was always right there—supportive, involved, and proud. His niece Margaret was especially lucky to spend her college years with him, where they met weekly for dinner—though more often than not, those dinners turned into drinks and laughter, with their meals heading home in to-go cartons.

Along with his family, Stuart also created a family of his own in Grand Forks through lifelong friendships. He had countless friends—too many to name—but a few who were especially close and part of his daily life included Mark Johnson, Allen (“Duke”) Dukart, and Tim Hajicek.

Stuart also had a special companion in his beloved dog, Gucci, whom he absolutely adored. He was, by his own nature, a bit of a “helicopter dad” to Gucci—always watching over him and making sure he was well cared for.

He will be remembered for his strong personality, sense of humor, maybe a little set in his ways, and unwavering brand loyalty—he better not catch anyone drinking anything other than Anheuser-Busch, or they had some explaining to do. That playful but firm conviction was just one of the many ways Stuart made people smile and left a lasting impression.

Every person Stuart touched, he left a place in their heart. You could not help but love Stuart. Many referred to him as “Uncle Stu,” a reflection of the warmth, guidance, and presence he brought into so many lives. Stuart was truly one of the good ones.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Stuart is survived by his sister, Christine (Leif) Gunderson; his brother, Branden (Lee) Mattson, who was not only his brother but his mentor growing up and his best friend—their bond was unbreakable; nieces, Ashley (Jason) Tomassoni and Margaret (Zach) Pohto; nephews, Patrick Mattson and Carver “Cooper” Mattson; Great Nieces Addison Henderson, Piper, Isabelle and Charlee Pohto. Uncle, Paul (Lauri) Mattson; Uncle Rich Erchul; Aunt Sally Hirsch; as well as many cousins and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Mattson and Gail Tervola; his nephew, Wesley Tomassoni; his brother-in-law, Billy Tomassoni; his aunts, Shari Erchul and Margaret Mattson; his uncles, Dennis Mattson and David Hirsch; and his paternal and maternal grandparents.

A celebration of life will be held at the Eagles Club in East Grand Forks from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Thursday, March 26, 2026. The address is 227 10th St NW, East Grand Forks, MN. The family invites all who knew Stuart to attend and encourages everyone to bring a story or memory to share in honor of his life. In lieu of flowers, the family is establishing a memorial fund in Stuart’s honor to support the care of animals. Contributions may be directed to Stay and Play Pet Resort and Spa (7274 S Washington St, Grand Forks, ND 58201), where Gucci was so deeply loved and cared for during Stuart’s time away. This fund is a meaningful way to honor Stuart’s love for animals and to help ensure others receive the same compassion and care.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to those who supported Stuart and cared for him.