Darrell L. Mattson

Darrell L. Mattson, 65 of Red Wing, passed away on March 11, 2025, at Mayo Clinic Hospital, St. Marys Campus in Rochester, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 4, 1959, in Edwards, California, to Roland and Gail (Juntunen) Mattson. His family moved to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, where Darrell grew up in Ironwood and then Bessemer, where he graduated from AD Johnson High School, class of 1978. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving his country with honor. Darrell married Carrie Hubbard and they had two children, Heather and Missy. They later divorced.

Darrell had an enthusiasm for all things mechanical earning him a reputation as a self-proclaimed "gear-head” and he was able to work at Hastings Ford Dealership and Big Wheel Rossi, putting his mechanics and parts knowledge to work. Darrell married Kim (Riegelman) Johnson on May 8, 1993, and they made their home in Red Wing. While in Red Wing, he continued to work at Big Wheel Rossi and later (Coast to Coast) Ace Hardware, Runnings, and Family Fare.

Darrell had many hobbies and interests that brought him happiness. He loved listening to 70's music, grilling, gardening, and woodworking. Family vacations held a special place in his heart, and he always dreamed of traveling to new places. He was a member of the Red Wing Elks Lodge BPOE #845 and the Red Men Club. He had also been a part of a local pool league and beanbag league.

Darrell brought a dry sense of humor and a mischievous grin to everyone he met. He was a “kick ass” Detroit Lions fan--always cheering them on with enthusiasm and never missing a chance to rub a win into his Vikings-loving wife, Kim. Despite this disagreement, the two of them were rarely apart, and they were very dedicated to one another, facing life’s joys and challenges together, side by side. He also loved being with his family and held a special place in his heart for his children and grandchildren.

Darrell is survived by his wife, Kim Mattson of Red Wing; daughters, Heather (Benji) Orth of Medford, Wisc., Missy (Charles) Jennings of Goodhue and Shannon (Joshua) Wilder of Topeka, KS; son, Zachary (Tricia) Johnson of Big Lake; grandchildren, Jaylyn, Wyatt, Ellie, Evan, Ozlo, Harold and Georgianna Rose; sister, Lynne (Matt) Severson of Mondovi, Wisc., many nieces and nephews and his fur-baby, LaLa. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, and a son, Benjamin Johnson.

A celebration of Life for Darrell will be held at an upcoming date and details will be provided as available. Please check for more information in the upcoming week.