Gerald "Jerry" James Mattson

Gerald “Jerry” James Mattson, 68, of Marion, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy in Hiawatha, Iowa. A Celebration of Life will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at 1230 English Lane NE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52402.

Jerry was born on December 27, 1957, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the son of James and Mary Lou (Hauschild) Mattson. He was a graduate of Milaca High School and went on to attend DeVry University in Chicago, Illinois, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in engineering. On June 25, 2005, Jerry was united in marriage to Kristie Lynn Hill in California. Together, they had one son, James.

He built a long career as an electrical engineer, working for Kaiser Electronics and then Rockwell Collins for 41 years, before retiring in 2019. Outside of work, Jerry filled his days with interests that brought him both enjoyment and community including playing 500 at Lowe Park, woodworking, camping, listening to music, and attending ballgames at the Cedar Rapids Kernels, where he and Kristie were season ticket holders. General aviation held a special place in the life of Jerry and his son, James, and they were active in a number of organizations that reflected that passion, including the Rockwell Flying Club, Rockwell Collins Model Aviators, Skyhawks, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Quiet Flyers, and the Experimental Aircraft Association.

Jerry also gave his time in service to others, volunteering at Linn-Mar Schools. Jerry’s life was one of dedication, enthusiasm, laughter, and generosity. He will be deeply missed and warmly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Jerry is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife, Kristie Mattson of Marion; son, James Mattson; brother, Dennis (Elaine) Mattson of Foreston, Minnesota; and sister, Betsy (Jeff) Gerads of Rice, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Mary Lou Mattson.