Jacky Dean Matson

LAYTON-Jacky Dean Matson passed away Tuesday with his wife, singing by his side, at the age of 69. He was born in Marshalltown, Iowa to Orville and Ruth Thomas Matson.

Jack joined the U.S. Navy at age sixteen with his parents' consent and served four years, three aboard the U.S.S. Yorktown, as a medic. After a series of unfulfilling jobs he enlisted in the Air Force in 1961, where he attained the rank of MSgt.

He married Ellen A. Tavares on May 6, 1968.

Jack retired from his position as Medical Materials Manager at HAFB in 1982. He worked for Hewlett-Packard as Fleet Manager and Shipping/Receiving Head. Jack became a crossing guard at Layton Elementary School when he fully retired. He was a favorite with the kids for his corny jokes and his fearless confrontation of careless drivers.

In 1993 he and Ellen joined the American Legion; he served as Commander of Post 87 for two terms. They remained highly involved in social and service projects until his health curbed their activities.

Jack loved camping, hunting, boating and snowmobiling with family and friends. He would frequently don a red suit and white beard to play Santa for the local children, making a grand entrance on his roaring Rupp sled with a sack of presents on his back. Later in life he developed a passion for Texas Hold'em Poker; he and Ellen enjoyed many trips to Mesquite and Wendover.

Jack is survived by his wife Ellen, children Dawn, Robin , Wes and Jackie Dean Jr. (Nicole) and three grandchildren; TJ, Billie and Korbyn.

He is preceded in death by his parents, infant son Dean, two sisters Shirley and Lavoy and brother Orville "Eddie".

A viewing will be held Saturday at 10:00 a.m., December 20, 2008 with services to follow at 11:00 a.m. - Aaron's Mortuary 1600 Washington Blvd. Ogden, UT.