Arnold R. "Ray"' Mattson 83, of Superior died peacefully Monday October 11, 2010 in Golden Living Center surrounded by his family.

Ray was born in Maple, Wis. on December 8, 1926 the son of Ina (Kauti) and Arnold E. Mattson.

He was a Superior Central High School Graduate, class of 1944, and then enlisted in the Navy serving his country from 1944-46. He attended UW of Superior from 1946-1949.

Ray had worked for U.S. Steel, the Northern Pacific Railroad and retired as the City Assessor for the city of Superior. He was a member of the American Legion, Elks Lodge 403 and the Masonic Temple.

He is survived by his wife, Emma of Superior; children, Julie Connor of Ruidosa N.Mex., Donald (Betty) Aro of South Range, Wis., Carol (Dennis) Sears of Iron River, Wis., Daniel (Lori) Mattson of Maple, Wis., Tammy (John) O'Brien of Iron River, Lori (Skip) VanDamme of Superior and Michael (Tracy) Mattson of Cloquet, Minn.; grandchildren, Heidi Ramage, Russell & Matt Aro, Tawn Smith, Ryan and Casey Sears, Niklaas and Taavi Mattson, Nolan and Trent VanDamme, Sean O'Brien, Ryan Fredrickson and Brenna Mattson; and great-grandchildren, Sidney Smith, Austin Slaviero and Savannah Sears.

A private family funeral service was held.

If desired donations in Ray's name may be made to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association.

Downs Funeral Home, corner of 19th St. and Ogden Ave., is assisting the family with arrangements.