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Brent Mathison Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Brent Mathison
Sponsored by Steve, Traci, & Darlene McPherson.
Darlene and Bob Cleveland
December 6, 2005
It is so hard to believe that we are beginning our second year without the presence of our beloved Brent. There isn't a day that has passed that we haven't thought of him. We talk about him every day so that Annika will grow up hearing all about her Daddy. A nurse took us aside on the day we brought Angie and Annika home from the hospital and told us that we were beginning an incredible journey. And this year has been exactly that. There have been lots of tears and lots of heartache but also lots of joy and thanksgiving that Annika is progressing so well and that Angie is healing. We see Brent every time that we look at Annika. When rocking her to sleep we can feel Brent's presence. As we were getting out the Christmas decorations this year I remembered that Brent was here last year when we were amongst the boxes. We were visiting and he said.....do you ever think how your life will be different the next time that you get out these same decorations? Remembering that statement now just takes our breath away. Our lives have indeed changed and will never be the same. Last year Angie asked Brent to stop at the Hallmark Store to pick up the current year Precious Moments ornament. And of course he stopped that very afternoon. And what did he come home with? A bag with every "Baby's First Christmas" ornament that was in that store! It just breaks one's heart to know that he never got a chance to see those ornaments displayed on their tree. But what a wonderful gift that is for Annika to have to put on the tree every year. He indeed was a truly wonderful husband and father. This year will be a different holiday season for us and our family. There is always a hole in our hearts when we gather. But Brent would have wanted us to make the most of every day and we will continue to try to do just that. Brent was our family's shooting star. He shone so brilliantly but for such a short time. We will always cherish that brilliance. He is gone from this life but he will never ever be forgotten.
Bob and Darlene Cleveland
Brent's father-in-law and mother-in-law
Bruce and Susan Calhoun
December 4, 2005
It has been one year since our good friend’s tragic death. It is a testament to Brent’s character that we still think and speak of him often. He had an enduring and positive influence on everyone fortunate enough to have known him. We miss Brent’s presence in our lives but take strength and comfort from knowing that his spirit lives on.
Traci McPherson
November 17, 2005
I miss Brent often and think of him daily. Annika and Darlene had Christmas pictures taken together this year...I'm so glad they have each other. I wish he could be here to see how wonderful his little girl is. I hope somehow maybe he still can see her and be with her in a way we'll never understand.
Gloria and Brian Rainer
October 16, 2005
Today, October 16, 2005, is the anniversary of Brent's birth. On this birthday we all know how deeply we miss his warm and positive presence in our lives. Brian and I were walking this morning, sharing memories of him, and thinking how much he would have enjoyed this beautiful autumnal day. He, with Angie and Annika, would have packed it full of life.
Our love and thoughts continue to be with Angie, Annika, Darlene, Bob, Karan, Trygve, Sarah, Traci, Steve, Dar, Lindsey, Kyle, and the special friends who continue to remember him and hold him in their hearts.
With love,
Gloria and Brian
(Brent's Aunt and Uncle)
Charlotte Sween
July 7, 2005
I have never met your family, but I found by reading the last St. Olaf Alumni magazine that I sadly have something in common with you. Our son, Michael, was killed on Monday morning, Dec. 6th, three miles from his dental office in Rogers. He was a 1993 graduate of St. Olaf and a 1997 graduate of the U. of M. School of Dentistry. He and Jill were married on August 22, 2003. Dr. Anton Armstrong and several of his choirmates sang at his funeral. We had all just been to the Christmas concert at St. Olaf the prior weekend. It is still so hard to believe. We send our heartfelt sympathy to all of you with best wishes for a full recovery for Angie and Annika. There is a guest book for Michael online. Duane and Charlotte Sween
Linda Douglas
May 13, 2005
I worked with Brent at Cretex, and we really enjoyed having him here. He had such energy and enthusiasm. I said he never just walked anywhere - he bounced. I sit at the upstairs reception desk and always knew when he was coming upstairs - he never took single steps - he leaped up them like it was a race. I would ask how Annika was doing, and he would grin from ear to ear and say things like, "she's precious; she's a treasure". He just beamed with pride to talk about her. Brent knew I liked cats and would stop and talk to me about how he had to take care of Angie's cat while she was pregnant. You could tell there was no love lost between him and that old cat, but out of love and respect for his wife, he took tender care of it, secretly hoping, I think, that it might pass away peacefully in its sleep. His stories always made me laugh. He was very busy here at work, but never too busy to stop and say hello to people and share a story. I still catch myself sometimes glancing over at the stairs waiting for him to "leap" up them. He made a real impression in our office and has been greatly missed, now and for always.
Angie Mathison
March 1, 2005
March 1, 2005 UPDATE
Hi! Well, it's been a few weeks since my last e-mail. There hasn't been much new to report which I guess isn't a bad thing. Annika had an appointment with the Occupational Therapist last week and all went well. She is still testing out at the appropriate level for her age, doing everything she should be doing at this point. We are now working on sitting up and she is doing great, able to hold her balance quite well and occasionally able to catch herself when she starts tipping over. She is eating cereal now and just loves it! We will start squash sometime next week, hopefully she will like that as much as she likes the cereal. She is a very happy baby and I am thankful for every day I have with her.
My knee continues to improve slowly. I am close to obtaining full flexion now which is great. As my ability to bend it gets better, the stability in my knee becomes a little more tenuous. It buckles a lot and it very unstable at times, but we are now working a little harder on the strengthening, so that should come back soon.
Annika sees the doctor again in the middle of March and the Occupation Therapist the end of March. I will let you know how those appointments go for her. As always, we are ever grateful for all the love and support that has been shown to us through thoughts, prayers, letters, cards, phone calls and visits. We see God's love and grace in you all. Thank you.
With Love ~
Angie & Annika
Darlene Cleveland
February 20, 2005
We come to this place in time with very heavy hearts. But we have also been blessed beyond measure that Brent was our son-in-law. We loved him from the moment he entered our lives.
We first met Brent when Angie brought him to our home for dinner. He came all dressed up and, we later learned, was a bit nervous. We knew after that first evening that he was a very special person.
When Angie was in Arizona for a nursing conference we got a call from Brent. He asked if it would be okay if he "stopped over". Because he lived forty miles away we suspected the visit was of some importance. And it was! He came with a bottle of wine and asked for Angie's hand in marriage. He said it was very important to him that her parents approve. He promised us that he would love her and care for her. A promise that he kept! He swore us to secrecy as he had a plan to propose to her and wanted it to come as a total surprise to her. To keep the secret, our conversations with Angie were kept to a minimum until that big day. They were so happy planning their wedding...and it was a beautiful ceremony.
Traci and Lindsey were thrilled to have such a wonderful big brother and Darlene was equally thrilled with her "Uncle Bent". He always kneeled and talked directly to her, telling her how special was and how nice she looked.
Brent enjoyed time at our lake home. When Brent and Steve got together on the water they made many memories - as well as sore muscles! Their antics in the boat made the girls so nervous that they came in and left the boys out on the lake to play. One morning I was up early and discovered that Brent was already down by the lake. I joined him on the dock where he was so content listening to the loons. He said being by the water gave him such a sense of peace.
Angie and Brent stayed with us for three months last summer while their house was being built. We enjoyed every moment. Diet Coke is the soda of choice in our home and after Brent learned of this we always had a plentiful supply. It wasn't unusal to see him come with several cases! "Anyone for Dairy Queen?" was often heard in the evenings. And questions were never answered yes. They were always answered "ABSOLUTELY".
During the time they stayed with us we purchased a BMW Z-4. This event was even more fun because of Brent's excitement. He was so thrilled for us. It gave us great pleasure to see him drive it the few times we could convince him to.
Brent and Bob attended a BMW Driving School. They had the opportunity to drive BMWs on a course and were told to drive the cars hard. Brent gave the instructor a thrill when it was his turn to navigate the course. They were both still laughing about that when they came home.
It was a happy and sad day for us when they closed on their new home and left ours. As stressful as moving day can be, they handled it with seeming ease.
The the next day off they went to the hospital for a new baby!! Brent called us every hour to update us on their condition. Then about 3am he called and said, please come - we need you. We got there just as they were going in to surgery. Brent was dressed in scrubs and looked nervous. But he was right where he was needed - with Angie and giving her encouragement. We went to the waiting room and after some time a nurse came and told us that Brent and the baby were in a room down the hall. We still did not know if we had a grand-daughter or a grand-son. Brent said there are so few true surprises in life - so no one knew if baby Mathison would be a boy or girl. Walking in to that hospital room is a scene we will always remember. Brent was cradling this beautiful infant and their eyes were locked. His face was wet with tears when he said, "Meet by beautiful daughter, Annika Kay." He was such a devoted father.
At Halloween Annika was the perfect little pumpkin. Brent was a bit apprehensive about the pumpkin costume, but did admit she was absolutely the cutest pumpkin in the patch!
The last evening we spent together we were downtown and walked through the Marshall Field's display and saw Santa. Brent and Angie had such joy in showing their daughter, little as she was, the joys of Christmas.
The following morning our family was all together for brunch to celebrate Lindsey's birthday. It was a wonderful morning. As Brent, Angie, and Annika left our house Annika's Daddy lovingly tucked her into her car seat - as he always did. That car seat was purchased after much research by Brent and Angie to make sure it was of the highest quality. We later learned that brand car seat saved Annika's life. He took his responsibilities as a husband and a father very seriously.
In the future when Annika asks her Grandpa and Grandma to tell her about her Daddy we hope we can convey to her the depth of his love for her and her Mommy. We will tell her all about the wonderful man we came to know and love.
We will cherish our time with Annika and will see Brent in the twinkle in her eyes and the sparkle of her smile.
We will always love Brent and he will forever be missed. Our family was blessed by his presence.
Written with love and a heavy heart,
Darlene Cleveland
Brent's mother-in-law
Tim Soderlund
February 19, 2005
I worked down the hall from Brent at Ecolab. It was great having a fellow Packer fan around while working in St. Paul. We would always get together on Mondays and discuss Sunday's game. The one thing I'll always remember is watching Brent walking down the hall in the mornings carrying his gallon of milk. He sure did like his milk. He will be missed.
Sonja and David Fisher
February 18, 2005
We didn't know Brent really well but there is one thing that I will always remember is his smiling face. He always made you feel at ease and you wanted to be around him because he was so happy all the time. He is truly going to be missed. I loved seeing him at all the family events that Traci and Steve would invite us too.
May you rest in peace with God.
Sonja and David
Lu Pertzsch
February 15, 2005
Our prayers continue for Angie, Annika, Tryg, Karan and Sarah, and the Cleveland Family. I used to babysit for Brent and Sarah and so many memories of that happy little boy that grew into such a fine young man. He is and will be forever deeply missed by so many. Our trust is with God that each of you live each day as Brent would have wished, to cherish each and every day and may the memories become stronger. Our love to you all. Bruce and Lu Pertzsch
Robin Cleveland
February 14, 2005
The following qualities come to mind when I think of Brent:
Considerate
Quality
Planner
Generous
Humble
Steady
Consistent
Priorities
Loving
Angie and Brent stayed with us last summer while their new home was being built. They stayed in the lower level of our home during this time. Brent was the quietest person, when he was coming and going, I have ever seen. Even with our dog around, (our dog barks at the slightest noise or movement), Brent managed to leave early in the morning to go to work without waking anyone up. Brent was very CONSIDERATE offering to help with chores around the house, lawn mowing, running errands and helping my youngest daughter with her career and her move to her new apartment. Brent actually looked for ways to help people.
Brent was a QUALITY person; a person of high integrity and solid values. Brent also applied this high quality trait to purchases he made for his family. When building their new home, Brent and Angie purchased the highest quality materials to provide the best possible living conditions for their family.
Brent was a PLANNER. Brent had a very busy life when you consider all the events going on during the time he stayed with us. During this time, Brent was adapting to a new job, attending birthing classes with Angie, playing softball each week, attending numerous planning meetings related to the construction of his home and helping us with our yard work and daily activities. Brent kept busy from early morning to late evening and accomplished much. Brent made the most of his time every day.
Brent was a GENEROUS person. We like Diet Coke; we usually bought it by the 12 pack. While Brent lived with us he would by two 24 packs at a time and would replenish the supply before we could think about doing it ourselves. Brent also supplied many meals from local restaurants and treats from Dairy Queen at least two times per week. When Brent would drive any of our cars he always filled the gas tank even if he only drove the car a few miles.
Brent was very successful at everything he did but did not boast about his accomplishments. In fact, he was very HUMBLE and would often minimize the impact of all he did. Brent was STEADY, even tempered, polite, never moody, straighforward in his dealings with people and unselfish. These traits were CONSISTENT; Brent never let a bad day affect how he treated other people. It was our pleasure having Brent and Angie stay with us last summer.
Brent knew how to set PRIORITIES. Brent had an ability to put family first but yet be admired and respected by his co-workers. Brent did whatever it took to first take care of his family and then perform his job. Not many people have this ability; Brent deserves all the respect in the world for managing his life so effectively. Brent contnues to provide security to his family through the financial planning he put in place.
All of the above is true, but most of all Brent was a LOVING person. Brent loved Angie; he told us this so many times, and he demonstrated his love through his actions. Brent and Angie were meant to be together. When Annika was born, Brent immediately began his role as a loving father. Brent was so proud of Angie and Annika and loved them very much. Every time we visited Brent and Angie after Annika was born, Brent was holding Annika and walking with her. Brent would sleep with Annika at night to make sure Annika was warm and comfortable.
Brent Mathison: I thank him for giving me the opportunity to get to know him. I miss him, I wish he was still here; I thank him for the memories and time we had together.
Robin (Bob) Cleveland
Father-in-Law
Laura Masica
January 31, 2005
We are so pleased to hear of Annika's normal CT scan. Our prayers have truly been answered.
Our family has been praying for your family since we first heard about the accident. We understand the difficulty that uncertainty can bring and we are so very happy for the positive results that Annika received.
We also are very aware of the challenges that Physical Therapy brings. Our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you as you go through your journey. Your strength and courage is incredible.
We don't know what it is like to move forward in life without your beloved husband and father and don't know what to say. We pray that your memories of Brent will sustain you in the short term and nourish you for the rest of your life.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Angie Mathison
January 28, 2005
UPDATE FROM ANGIE AND ANNIKA 1/28/05:
Hi Everyone ~
We have had a very busy week again. Annika was in to see the Occupational Therapist at HCMC on Wednesday to test her development. She spent about an hour with her and Annika is right on track with her motor skills, tracking, verbalization, etc. She is testing at about the 5 month level. We were so happy to hear that, especially in light of the fact that she lost close to a month in the hospital. She continues to work on rolling over (we haven't quite gotten there yet) and she is now putting EVERYTHING in her mouth! She smiles all the time and has started laughing more and more.
On Thursday she returned to the hospital again to have her follow-up head CT. We had to wake her and feed her at 5:30 so she would have an empty stomach by 10:00 when they were going to do the scan. We got to the hospital at 8:45 and they tried doing the scan without sedation. Annika was much too busy looking around at everything to fall asleep or even sit still for the scan, so we did have to sedate her this time. They started an IV, put her back on the monitors and administered the sedation. She did great! She came out of the sedation very fast and was eating by 11:15. Boy, was she hungry! She was not happy having to wait 5 1/2 hours in between feedings! It was all worth it though. Today, I spoke to one of the nurses at the hospital and her head CT is now clear. Both of the bleeds have completely resolved, the extra fluid on her brain has been reabsorbed, the debris behind left her eardrum is gone and the only thing still visible on the scan is her skull fracture. The findings of the head CT is that it is a normal head CT for a baby her age. That is miraculous considering the extent of her injuries. We couldn't have hoped for a better result. We have spent the last 2 months holding our breath wondering how she is going to come out of this and now we can relax a little. It will still be a few years until we know for certain that everything is fine and she won't have any deficits, but I would have to say we are off to a great start! She has now been off of the seizure medication for a week and a half and has had no seizures. Considering the CT results, I have no concerns in that area at all.
I still have physical therapy 3 times a week. I was able to get my knee flexion to 88 degrees today. That magic 90 degree numbers continues to elude me. Hopefully by Monday I will be there! I saw the Orthopedic surgeon on Tuesday and will be out of work for at least 8 more weeks. He did give me the okay to leave my brace off when I am at home now and I really only need to wear it when I am out because it's winter and I don't yet have the strength to catch myself if I slip. I have been very busy trying to get the house unpacked and organized. It's coming along slow but sure.
I thank you all for your thoughts and prayers. Obviously they have been heard as evidenced by the wonderful news we have received this week. We are so grateful to all of you!
With Love ~ Angie and Annika
Briana Volkers
January 27, 2005
I worked at Cretex with Brent. I have a daughter a couple months older than Annika, so our conversations were always about baby things. He was the only guy I knew that got week-by-week email updates from Babycenter.com. Whenever he talked about Annika he would be bouncing around pretending to be holding her and patting her back. He said once that he even caught himself bouncing for no reason, just out of habit. You could clearly see how much he adored her. Even if he was only going off a couple hours of sleep he'd smile and say he wouldn't have it any other way. I will miss him here at Cretex. He was a great coworker who truly cared about the people he worked with.
Annika's Daddy
Traci McPherson
January 26, 2005
Tell Me About My Daddy…
“It all comes with the territory” he would say. I never fully understood this until now. Brent's so called “territory” was his life. The man who consistently worked hard and never complained; the man who opened his heart and loved deeply. This was the man who knew how to live life to the fullest. Brent gladly endured the lows in life, never taking for granted any of the highs. He soaked up all of life not ever wanting to miss a thing. This was especially true when it came to family.
“That’s what family is for” he would say. These are words we’ve all heard before. However, Brent was the kind of man who backed up those words with actions. Actions not motivated by obligation but rather sincere love. First things first was his approach to family. There was never a higher priority, never an ulterior motive. Brent’s family was huge and constantly growing because he always considered his friends as his family.
“We all make our choices” he would say. Brent lived these words by example. He firmly believed that each one of us has a great deal of power to choose how much we put into this life and what we take out of it. No one can argue Brent made a lot of good choices and he has left us all better people because of them. He achieved great success in his life on both a personal and professional level. Brent would never want us to forget that our choices make all the difference in the world.
Brent will be missed but never forgotten. He will live on through all of us. I know we will catch glimpses of his soul through Annika’s smile.
Someday when Annika asks, “can you tell me about my daddy”? I will simply reply:
He was a genuine friend to many
The loving son his parents always hoped for
The protective brother his sister adored
He was the love of your mommy’s life
And the proudest, happiest daddy ever
Your daddy loved you Annika…asolutely.
And his love will live with you forever.
High School Graduate
January 25, 2005
Troy Birdsong
January 25, 2005
Comments about Brent from Wisconsin Alumni Website:
I'm very saddened and shocked that he was taken so young and in such a tragic manner. His family must be devastated. And I'm sure all of us who knew him are in disbelief because he was 'our age'... one of our own. It drives home the importance of living each day to its fullest and appreciating and loving those that mean the most to us.
-Lisa Campbell Shields
Sad news about Brent. I have memories of him dating back to kindergarten. Its a shame to lose him. He always stuck out in a good way. I heard about it yesterday, but its still a shock.
-Steven R. Grimes
Brent will be great missed. Our hearts go out for Karan, Tryg, Sara and Brents wife and child. I've worked here for 30 years and watched Brent and Sara grow up. I graduated from Holmen in 1971, had Tryg for teacher and he was Principal when I started working here. A sad, sad tragedy.
-Jane Thompson
Brent played a solo on the organ at Church one Sunday at the end of the service. ( It must have been when he came home for a break during college) I was fortunate enough to be up in the balcony standing nearby with other choir members. It was a piece that took our breath away. He was all over the keys and peddles playing this magnificent, long, and difficult selection . Brent was soaking wet after all of his hard work. We all applauded and were in awe of his incredible talent.
-Ellen Hesselberg
My brother Chris and I are so very sorry and simply stunned by the sad news. Brent was a very special person. We wish that we could be with everyone on Thursday for the funeral. Please know that we are thinking about Brent's family and are there in spirit.
-Ann and Chris Kathan
Brent received the John Gordon Tabbert Memorial Award because of his love for people, especially his family and friends, his love of Holmen High School, his love of education, and his community. He was a man of many talents, most recently a talented father. I saw him holding that delicate child, and he was so proud, so loving, so "fatherly". He held Annika close to his heart physically as he did all of the members of his family spiritually. Our prayers are with them now and for a long time to come.
-Karen Rooney
This is so sad and tragic. I graduated from high school with Brent back in 1986, and had known him since I moved to Holmen in first grade. Brent was an outgoing guy and seemed to be involved in just about every school activity there was. We were in many of the same classes and both on the football team together. We went to a relatively small school and we all seemed to be pretty close. Seems like just yesterday we graduated from high school, but the years have gone by so quickly. I have not seen Brent since our 5 year class reunion, but he was the same outgoing, fun loving guy I remembered from our high school days. My thoughts are with his parents and family at this time.
-Sean Hale
Brent will be missed so much. I had forgotten that we were "most outgoing" together, but seeing these pictures made me cry. He was one of the best in our class. He was always smiling, and was so much fun to be around. I can hear his laugh. I am so sad for his family, his wife... I heard they were just perfect for each other. His baby...she had the best father ...and his parents and sister. I cant imagine the pain and shock they are in. He really was one in million.
-Sandy (Nelson) Weihing
Brent’s family will be in our thoughts in these terrible times. Although I didn’t move to Holmen until our sophomore year I have many memories of Brent. Most of them involve him running me over during football practice. I can remember the jokes and many fun times of being in swing choir together also. Now if that doesn’t say what a neat and diverse person he was then I don’t know what would. It will be with a smile that my wife Kelli and I will remember Brent.
-Kerry and Kelly Redfearn
I graduated with Brent in 1986. We were never close but he was always friendly. We were in band together and he played the Trombone and I was in color guard. We had to toss our flags over a row of people and he had to catch it. On our first try I threw my flag just terribly and put the first dent in his brand new trombone. I felt terrible! All he did was say, please just relax and throw it better the next time. He was very mild mattered. I was lucky to see him at our 15 year class reunion. He was funny and nice and didn't seem to change a bit. The world will sorely miss him. I'm so sorry for the loss of him, my friend, and my classmate. My condolences go to his family. My thoughts will be with you.
-Barb Tetzlaff Krome
I hadn’t seen Brent since the day he hobbled into my store, Tree Records, back in the late 80’s with a broken leg during one his college breaks. We chatted for quite sometime and he was the same old Brent from high school. He still had that great humor about him and always smiling. That is what I remember about Brent his constant smile. He will be sadly missed. My prayers go out to his entire family.
-Dave A. Wilchinski, Jr.
Losing anyone is such a difficulty in life, but losing someone who made an impact on so many others is harder to understand. This tragic accident and death of Brent will always be in our minds as well as our thoughts and prayers for his wife, daughter, parents & sister. Brent & Angela’s daughter, Annika will keep this family together and allow the family to tell her what a wonderful person her daddy was throughout her life. What wonderful impressions & memories he left for all that knew him. Please know, we are praying for the Mathison Family, God Bless………
-Kris Kaatz
My favorite recollection of Brent dates back to 1984 or so when we were both in swing choir. We had been preparing a show for a competition, and as part of the preparation we did a practice performance at the middle school one afternoon. Midway through one of the numbers Brent forgot the order of the dance steps. To say it was obvious would be to understate the scene; twenty-some-odd people went right and Brent went left. It got worse as it became apparent that he was off onto some other sets of moves -- for a good 30 seconds he was very obviously doing a dance very different from everyone else. The middle school kids were laughing, but the best part was that Brent was laughing too. He knew he had made a mistake, he knew the kids were laughing at him, and he didn't know how to get back into step with the rest of the group -- so he did what he did best: he showed his grace and humanity by sharing in the joke. Brent laughed along with the kids for many seconds, continuing the steps that nobody else was performing, until the number returned to a familiar section and he was able to rejoin the steps of the other dancers. We all make mistakes and get embarrassed. Brent was the kind of guy who would laugh with you at a joke at his expense, growing in the shared humor rather than being diminished by his embarrassment. I am so sorry that I haven't seen him since 1991, and that I won't ever get to see him again.
-Dave Smith
I graduated two years behind Brent. As an underclassman, it was very easy to look up to and admire him. As Kerry mentioned, anyone who could successfully (or not so much per Dave’s anecdote) participate in such a wide variety of activities and deal with having their father as the principal was truly special. My memory of Brent is from basketball practice. Sometimes the varsity squad would scrimmage with the junior varsity and I found myself guarding Brent (equally vertically challenged). During a full court drill I made the mistake of trying to take a charge while he was sprinting down the floor. I don’t think I even slowed him down and had trouble breathing for a week. Lesson learned. I am a better person (although slightly bruised) for having known him. My deepest sympathies go out to his family.
-Ben Krueger
Karen and Trygve
So sorry to hear of your loss.
-Susan Lee Gant
As a mom of another graduate of the class of '86, I can remember when Brent first came out to our farm with the kindegarten class for a "Visit to the farm with Mrs. Burrows and Mrs. Daily." He was enthralled with the pony but much to his disappointment, his father (who had been my band teacher), informed me not to give him any ideas about being able to get a pony and keep it at the farm! Brent always had a smile whenever you met him--even when he bagged my groceries and much credit go to his parents for raising such a fine young man who will be greatly missed. For the rest of us, let us remember: Whatever you want to do, do it now. There are only so many tomorrows...we are sad that Brent's tomorrows here on earth are no more.
-Mary Jane Craig Nelson, HHS class of 1963, Mother of Jan Nelson Werner-class of 86
How thankful we are to have shared knowing and loving him. It was always a pleasure meeting Brent and Angie. It was always that warm smile and hug. As we all carry on: to Tryg, Karan, Sarah, Angie and Annika, you have our love and comfort.
-Stan and Evelyn Olson
Angie Mathison
January 24, 2005
UPDATE FROM ANGIE AND ANNIKA 1/24/05
Hi Everyone ~
I am sorry this is getting out so late. Hopefully this week I will be a little more timely with things. Annika and I moved back home on January 21st. We have had a good week. It is very comforting, but difficult at times, to be home. We are adjusting well. Annika slept in her new crib for the first time the night we came home and did incredibly well...slept straight through for 10 hours! She has been sleeping through the night since we got back and is on a really good schedule now. She had her 4 month appt with her pediatrician on the 19th. She weighs 15.2 lbs, is 25 3/4 inches long and her head circumference is 16 3/4". All is at about the 90th percentile. She is right on track with her development, doing everything a 4 month old should be doing. Our big news is that she got her first two teeth on the 16th! Both her front bottom teeth broke through...it was a very exciting day for everyone! She has rolled over a few more times, always from her front to her back. We haven't quite mastered back to front yet. This week we will try to start her on rice cereal and see how she likes it.
Annika will have a very busy week this week. She sees the Occupational Therapist on Wednesday. She will be seeing Annika for the next few years to follow her development. We will know for sure where she is at with her motor skills, hearing, sight, etc after that appointment. On Thursday she will have another head CT. We have to feed her at 4:30...in the morning...and her scan is at 8:30. They need her stomach to be empty because they will have to sedate her to get the scan. I am not looking forward to that. Hopefully on Friday I will have the results. I won't have all the details until February 8th when she sees the neurosurgeon again, but at least they will be able to tell me whether the scan was better, unchanged, or worse. We are of course hoping for better, but would be okay with unchanged.
I continue with physical therapy. It's coming along slow but sure. I was able to bend my knee to 72 degrees this week. I hope to be at 75 degrees by Tuesday when I see the orthopedic surgeon again. Walking is get much easier but I find riding in the car to be difficult for long periods of time. I sure like my short trips into Elk River, though! My neighbors have been absolutely wonderful! They have been over to shovel my driveway several times and even chipped away all of the ice in front of my garage door. I have received many phone calls and feel so blessed to be part of such a wonderful neighborhood. We could not have moved into a better area!
Slowly but surely we are getting settled and establishing a routine. We have our difficult days but are surrounded by so many friends and family and have so much support...it is a wonderful feeling. I hope you all have a great week and I will try to get something out on Friday.
Love ~
Angie and Annika
heather Stedillie
January 18, 2005
I never did meet Brent, but I know he put that smile on Angela's face. Angela was forever changed the moment she met him. I will always remember her being so giddy and happy about him. I know he changed her and alway made her happy, he was her happily ever after. Ang, I know he will always carry on in your heart, and in Annikas smiles. Please know we will always be there for you--Love Heather and the staff at HCMC
Angie & Annika Mathison
January 14, 2005
UPATE FROM ANGIE & ANIKA 01/13/05
Hi ~
It's been a quiet week for us. Annika continues to improve each day. She is still working on trying to roll over...she is so close now! She is grabbing things and putting them in her mouth and loves to play with a musical piano that Grandma and Grandpa bought her. We decreased her Phenobarb (that is the anti-seizure medication she was on) by 50% last week and she has done very well with that. She has had no seizures, so I am confident we won't have any problems once she is off the medication completely. She is a very busy little girl, always wanting to be awake during the day, not wanting to miss anything that is going on. She doesn't nap much, but she is sleeping anywhere from 7-9 hours at night. She continues to grow and change, and she does something new almost every day. She is an absolute miracle!
I continue to go to physical therapy 4 times per week. This week has been harder than last, but I am enjoying it nonetheless. My knee flexion has increased to about 60 degrees and walking becomes easier with each day. I started driving again this week. What a feeling of freedom! I forgot how much I missed it and it has been much easier to be able to run errands without having to take Annika out in the cold every time we go anywhere. Now she gets to stay home with Grandma and play while I go to therapy.
Annika and I will be moving home on Friday, January 14th permanently. I am very excited to be able to go home, even knowing there will be many difficult days ahead. It is comforting to be in the house Brent and I built to raise our daughter in. I know he would be happy that we can go back. We will have family and friends staying with us to help out with some of the housework and with Annika until I get a little stronger and more steady on me feet. My neighbors have all been absolutely wonderful and very helpful with things like shoveling the driveway and watching the house while I have been away. I feel very blessed to be in such a tight-knit neighborhood.
Our address is:
22382 Tipton Street NW
Elk River, MN 55330
(763) 441-0413
Once again, thank you to everyone for all your thoughts, prayers, kind words...all of the memories you have shared with me of Brent and the time that many people have spent with myself and Annika. All of your support is what is pulling us through and I am so grateful.
Love ~ Angie & Annika
P.S. GO VIKES!!!!!
Gloria and Brian Rainer
January 12, 2005
Brian and I have a lifetime of memories of Brent. As his aunt and uncle and his godparents, he has been a central person in our lives and hearts for thirty-seven years. He had integrity, high character, a warm personality, and many talents, a truly winning combination of personal qualities for anyone.
One of Brent’s talents was in music, not surprising since both his mother and father had similar talent which led to their undergraduate music degrees. Another influence might have been Brent’s maternal grandmother, who also majored in music in college and taught music her entire life.
When Brent was about seven years old, he began the study of piano. His instructor was Sister Dolorette from Viterbo University and she utilized the Suziki Method of instruction. He worked hard at the skill foundations this method required. At this young age he was exposed to a classical repertoire, such as Mozart and Beethoven. We were told he was so accomplished that he was invited to perform for master classes at Viterbo University and also was encouraged to compete in state piano music competitions in Oshkosh and Appleton, Wisconsin. When we would visit, he often was willing to play for us a recent piece he was working on or to demonstrate his scale-playing ability, his fingers flying. It was always an impressive performance.
When he was in third grade (about eight years old), he auditioned for the La Crosse Area Boy Choir, a very prestigious group at that time. The choir was directed by Daniel Johnson Wilmot, also a Professor of Music at Viterbo University. This experience required dedication and commitment from all the boy members. Rehearsals were rigorous and the results rewarding. They sang like angels! They performed a classical repertoire, and, if I remember correctly, even performed the Bach Magnificat. The Choir presented concerts in the region and traveled to many other distant locations in the United States to give concerts. One concert was on the Delta Queen, the luxury paddlewheel boat on the Mississippi, and in the audience were Helen Hayes and Paul Harvey. A choir member “graduated,” if he continued to sing with the choir until his voice changed. Brent was very proud of his membership in this group and also proud of the fact that he sang until he “graduated,” which was in early high school. I am sure that he valued the citation and plaque he received at that time and the wonderful memories of the choir.
His instrumental education broadened with the introduction of the trombone which he played in concert band, jazz band, marching band, and pep band. He competed in music contests, playing trombone solos. There is a story we recently heard about when he was in marching band. A flag thrower made a throw, an improper throw as it turned out, and the staff of the out of-control-flag hit Brent’s brand new trombone, leaving a dent. The horrified flag thrower was very apologetic, but Brent reassured her and said, “Don’t worry about it. Just make a better throw next time!” Trygve remembers that occasion, how Brent come home feeling sad that his brand new instrument had a brand new dent. (It was promptly repaired!)
At the same time in high school Brent also participated in vocal music activities. He was in choir and show choir. The show choir was involved in competitions in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. There was an even more distant trip to Washington, D.C. to perform and compete. We were told that one show choir number had Brent in a grass skirt and coconut shells. Unfortunately, we didn’t see that performance, but we wish we had!
Then it was on to St. Olaf College. Although he was a psychology major, he made time for music. He had the wonderful opportunity to study organ with Dr. John Ferguson, Professor of Organ and Church Music. These lessons were paid for by Brent’s maternal grandmother, Florence Evans. She was very pleased that he had this interest and she was proud of Brent’s commitment to organ study, since she also was an organist. Brent really appreciated the musical potential of a pipe organ. In addition, Brent sang in the Cantorei Choir, directed by Dr. Ferguson. Although Brian and I never heard any of the concerts in person, we enjoyed the Public Television programs, “Christmas at St. Olaf”, in which Brent participated. We would intently watch the television program, waiting for the camera to show Brent singing or playing the handbells. A friend of Brent’s parents reminded us that around this time Brent returned to Holmen one weekend to visit his parents and played the recessional at the conclusion of the church service. This was a major organ work which he had been working on at St. Olaf. His hands were flying, his feel were flying, and at the conclusion of playing the piece Brent was dripping wet from effort! The members of the congregation had stopped to listen and they burst into applause for this extraordinary performance.
This love and appreciation of music did not stop for Brent. He continued to appreciate and enjoy music in many different forms even after his college/university years. I know he was looking forward to again playing the piano more regularly with the recent delivery to their Elk River home of his Grandmother Evans’ grand piano, a gift from her to Brent and Angie. He was selecting piano music to fill their house with music. And we know that the music will continue in Angie and Annika’s lives.
Vicki McHugh
January 12, 2005
Angie and Annika,
Where to start....I have so many wonderful memories. I met Brent in Kindergarden. Our last names were very close in the alphabet, so we sat next to each other in almost every class we had in elementary and middle school. We sat only a few people apart in band from 5th through senior year. Our lockers were only one apart from 5th grade on as well. I spoke, laughed, joked, argued and generally had a great time with Brent almost every day of my education in Holmen.
My fondest memories are of band and our trips. If you think band is for geeks, you never experienced it with Brent. We had so much fun. Never short on wit or mischief, being the son of the pricipal gave us just a little bit more rope than the average student.
I think the memory that represnts Brent as a person best is from Homecoming our senior year. When Brent was named Homecoming King he actually cried. He felt privileged to be held in such high regard by his friends. If he only knew we felt that way about him every single day.
I lost contact with Brent after high school, but got updates from Tryg and Karen whenever I saw them. It was comforting to know the happiness and full life he always wanted finally was fulfilled with you Angie, and Annika as well. May God bless you family.
Brian and Gloria Rainer
January 10, 2005
Gloria and I are so pleased that Brent's Guest Book is up and running! All our love to you, Angela, and to Annika. You know we will be in touch.
Gloria and Brian
Angela & Annika Mathison
January 6, 2005
FROM ANGIE & ANNIKA
Hi Everyone ~
Many people have asked me to let them know how we are doing and I thought this would be the best way to give everyone periodic updates. Please forward this to anyone you wish.
Annika is doing very well...we had a rough couple of days when we first brought her home. She was still having extreme headaches and what we think were probably just aches and pains from the accident. That resolved after a couple of days and she has made great strides since then. The left sided weakness and neglect (which was a result of the brain injury) has completely resolved and she is using both arms and legs equally with good strength. There have been no seizures since she came home. She had an EEG on December 28th to look for any seizure activity and we received the results today. The EEG was completely normal showing no seizure activity at all and we are going to wean her off of the seizure medication over the next couple of weeks. What a huge relief! She is reaching all of her developmental milestones...smiling, cooing, grabbing things, trying to sit up and trying to roll over. That wonderful sparkle in her eyes is back and she is absolutely beautiful! We feel so blessed that she is doing so well. Annika will have another head CT and follow-up doctor visit the end of January. The doctors are optimistic that she will make a full recovery with no long-term deficits...they will follow her for 3-5 years.
I started physical therapy this week and it is going very well. I am able to lift my leg for the first time since the accident (with the help of electrical stimulation) and I am now walking on my own without needing a walker or crutches. The incision is healing up nicely and most of the swelling has dissipated. We hope to be able to move back into the house in the next week or two (we have been living with my parents) and I hope to be able to drive by the end of the month. That will be very exciting!
If you would like to reach me, I will be at my parents and will let everyone know when we move back to our home. My parents info:
22910 Heather Ridge Drive
Rogers, MN 55374
(763) 428-8403
I would like to thank everyone for all your thoughts and prayers. The holidays were very difficult to get through, but all of the support was so uplifting. I can't tell you all how much it means to both myself and my family. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.
Bob Becker
December 30, 2004
Brent was a co-worker and a friend of mine at Cretex. I only knew him for the short time here at work but he was one of those kind of guys that made you realize and see all the good things in life even in tough times, the kind of guy that makes you a better person just for knowing him. One memory of Brent that comes to mind is during this last summer here at work he came outside just as I was coming back from lunch on my motorcycle, we talked a minute or so about motorcycles then I told him to take it for a spin around the block if he wanted, well... he did, although I'm not sure which block he took it to because he came back several minutes later with a smile from ear to ear that threatened to push his ears farther up the side of his head! It was nice to help put a huge smile on his face because he had helped me see the bright side of a bad situation in which my uncle was hurt quite badly in a hunting accident recently. He was great guy and all who knew him will miss him greatly.
Jennifer L'Esperance
December 30, 2004
I am a friend of Angie and had only met Brent on a few occasions but in those brief meetings it was obvious how much he adored Angie and Annika. He brought so much joy and light into Angie's life and her love for him was reflected on her face. I pray that God gives the Mathison's and Cleveland's the strength they need in this tragic time. I love you Angie and here for you always! We all miss you at HCMC.
Lindsey Cleveland
December 29, 2004
I have so many wonderful memories of Brent it is hard to know where to start. He was such a great big brother and friend. It's still hard for me to believe that I will never get to hear him say "excellent" again or give me the thumbs up.
Brent helped me find my first job out of college at the company he worked for. I will miss our Chipotle connection, but will never forget all the lunches where we would sit and talk about everything.
One of my favorite memories is when Brent, Steve and myself went to see Lord of the Rings before Christmas Eve last year. Brent had seen it 2 or 3 times already, but he went again and we had such a great time. I am also very grateful that I was able to spend so much time with him the weekend of the accident. That Friday, we went to the 8th floor show and Hollidazzle and had brunch for my birthday on Saturday. I will cherish those memories forever and will always remember looking back and seeing Brent, Angie and Annika in Baby Gap. They had to take her inside for awhile during the parade to keep her warm. Brent was bouncing with her as always and he looked so happy.
I miss talking to him and laughing with him. I miss his emails that always brightened my day. I admired him so much and he made me realize what's important in life. I believe he had that same kind of impact on so many. He was such a loving husband and unbelievably proud father. I will do my best to make sure Annika always knows how much her daddy loved her.
Traci McPherson
December 29, 2004
Brent was the big brother I never had. I miss him terribly. Coming from a family of all girls he was a huge influence on me. I admired him greatly. He brought out the best in every situation and in every person he came into contact with. I miss his jokes but can still hear him laughing. I miss watching him play with Darlene but can still see him crouching down to her level and saying, "Hi Dar, you look so pretty as usual". I miss the good advise he gave whenever I was struggling with a problem. Life is not the same and never will be. His absense in our lives is deeply recognized.
Brent & Angela Mathison: Wedding Day
December 29, 2004
Darlene Olson
December 15, 2004
I know the Mathison family. We are proud to have them all in the community. They belong to many volunteer groups and do their best in what ever they do.
Brent was a good example of how to live life to the best. God bless his family.
Robin Osvog
December 10, 2004
Dear Mathison and Cleveland Families, All of us at Darlene's daycare were very sad to hear of your tragedy. Angela and Annika you are all in our thoughts and prays.
Deepest Sympathy,
Robin & Steve Osvog
Jennifer Verbrugge
December 9, 2004
Our children go to daycare with Darlene. We heard of your tragedy and have great sadness in our hearts for your family. It is apparent through Darlene and her parents the great love that binds your family together. Our hope is that this love can bring peace to you in this time of tremendous hurt.
We will continue to pray for full recovery for Angela & Annika.
Deepest sympathy,
The Verbrugge Family
Jeff Travis
December 8, 2004
I did not know Brent, but my brother, John Travis, knew him at St. Olaf. And I grew up in Elk River as well and know people at Cretex. Brent must have been a great guy as everyone is so saddened by his passing. My sympathies to his family.
Lisa Johnson
December 8, 2004
Brent used to babysit for me and my brother (Andy). My Dad (Bob Johnson) was his former high school math teacher as well. I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers are with the entire family. I also will be praying for Angela and Annika. May you find peace in the midst of this horrible tragedy. He was a good man.
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