Brian Wayne Mattson

1935 - 2020

BORN

1935

DIED

2020

About

Michigan State University

Brian Mattson Obituary

Brian Wayne Mattson Brian Wayne Mattson, AICP, passed away of a heart attack at the age 84 on Saturday, July 18th while planting his garden at his home in Novato, CA. Brian was born on Christmas Day in 1935 in Watersmeet, Michigan. He graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in Landscape Architecture and later completed a Master Degree in Public Administration from Cal-State Hayward. Brian had an extensive career in public service as a Planning Director for growing cities such as Manitowoc, WS; Spokane, WA; Yakima, WA; Klamath Falls, OR and Novato, CA; retiring from public service in Vallejo, CA. His tenure in planning spanned 40 years of challenging times for urban growth. His humble leadership, perspectives, and the ability to navigate political issues was a trait admired by his peers. He took pride in his mentorship of fellow planners on ethical and professional dilemmas. These traits were a cornerstone of his contribution and influence to professional planners. During his time in Novato he was active in the Bay Area Planning Directors Association, promoting regional planning, he sat on numerous planning panels and was a past member of the Sonoma State University Advisory Committee related to planning curriculum. He is preceded in death by his mother, Eileen Mattson; his father, George Mattson; and his son, Todd Mattson. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Evelyn Mattson; his sister, Nancy Severtson; and his four children: Greg Mattson, Tammy Dunn, Andrea Doney, and Sandra Schondel-Mattson. Brian and Evelyn are both lifelong members of All Saints Lutheran Church in Novato, CA. Brian was a member of the church council and actively involved with other committees. Brian enjoyed the outdoors, coaching baseball, bowling, skiing and most recently was very proud to support and be with his eight grandchildren. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, we are unable to all gather in person for a celebration of life. However, you are invited to help the family celebrate by sharing a memory of Brian at [email protected]. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to All Saints Lutheran Church endowment committee for church landscape renovations.

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Published by Marin Independent Journal on Aug. 2, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Brian Mattson

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6 Entries

Hanson Hom

August 5, 2020

It is with much sadness to hear about Brian's passing. He was a true role model and inspiration to me and many others who have worked with him. I was fortunate to work with Brian while he was the Planning Director at the City of Vallejo. His support during my early planning years motivated me to always reach for higher ideals. He instilled in all of us his strong planning values, the importance of ethics in our profession, and a conviction to always do what's right. His quiet leadership, inclusive management style, and generosity garnered true admiration and respect from those who were fortunate to know him. I‘m sure that as a father and grandfather he instilled his same life values to his family, and that is a wonderful blessing that will live on.

Greg Mattson

August 3, 2020

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Diane Henderson

August 3, 2020

Novato and the world have lost one of their finest. As Novato's long-term Planning Director, Brian was my first boss as I started my profession as a city planner (and he hated to be called boss"!) He led by example, teaching us that kindness, courtesy and professionalism were the highest priority. Brian guided Novato's development during challenging political years, always willing to go the extra mile to do the right thing. He was smart and fun; an amazing athlete and dedicated husband, father, and grandfather (I remember the day that Lucas was born--Brian brought donuts to the office to celebrate becoming a grandfather!) A true gentleman who lived his commitment to his faith every day. Rest in peace dear Brian; I am so glad that you had such a meaningful impact on my life. Sending love and prayers to Evelyn and all his family.

Riley Schondel

August 3, 2020

Paapa was one of the most patient and kind people I’ve ever known. I am so thankful to have made all the memories I have with him, and he will continue to influence and inspire me as he has done for so many years. Thank you for sharing your sweet tooth with me and so much more. We love and miss you always

Lucas Mattson

August 2, 2020

My grandfather Brian was a kind and gentle soul. He cared deeply for his family, his fellow man, and all that were around him. Even in differences he saw the best in people, a unique quality we should all hope to strive for. He was quite simply one of the best men I've ever known. I will miss him greatly.

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