Dennis ‘Dan’ Dale Mattson, 78, of Aberdeen, SD passed away at home on March 3, 2026. He has now joined his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in heaven.
Dan was born on April 22, 1947 and was raised by his parents, Reuben and Della (Gustafson) Mattson. He graduated from Webster High School and later continued his education at Lake Area Vo-Tech in Watertown. Dan also proudly served his country in the National Guard.
Dan was known as a hardworking, friendly man who never hesitated to lend a hand. He spent many years working for UPS and was also the proud owner of D & L Sales, where he enjoyed working with people and cars alike. Dan was detail- oriented and organized, a trait that carried through both his work and daily life.
On January 26, 1969 Dan married the love of his life, Marilyn Jean Sandve, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Webster, SD. Together they began their life on the family farm. A few years later they moved to Aberdeen, which became their permanent home. Their life together was filled with family, laughter and many cherished memories. After retirement, he and Marilyn enjoyed traveling more often to be with the grandkids.
Dan had a passion for adventure and the open road. One of his favorite traditions was traveling to the Black Hills each year with family and friends to go snowmobiling. A loyal Ski-Doo fan, he loved leading the way on the trails. When the snow melted, Dan could often be found enjoying another passion–cars. A proud Ford man, he especially liked Mustangs.
His faith and love for the Lord were the very foundation of his life, guiding the way he treated and cared for others. Dan will be remembered for his kindness and generosity through his love for serving others. He was a strong leader and faithful member of the Aberdeen Alliance Church.
Dan is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Marilyn; his daughters, Amy Macke and April (Jason) Zimmerman; and his grandchildren: Brittany (Jon) Halloran and their children, Cecelia and Walker; Brooke Lindstrom and her son, Declan; Ayce Hoese; and Ashton, Brayden and Cole Zimmerman.
He is also survived and dearly loved by the extended Sandve family, his mother-in-law Esther Sandve, sister-in-laws Eunice (Bob) Knight, Carole Levercom, June (Steve) Baker, brother-inlaw David (Mary) Sandve, and many nieces and nephews.