BESSEMER, Mich. – Irwin R. “Irv” Mattson, 79, of Bessemer, passed away suddenly on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026, at his residence.

Irwin was born on May 26, 1947, to John E. and Helmi L. (Niemi) Mattson at Grand View Hospital in Ironwood. He graduated from A.D. Johnston High School in Bessemer in 1965, and earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial arts in education from Northern Michigan University in Marquette.

Irv entered the U.S. Army in 1967 and proudly served in the 101st Airborne Division for two years during the Vietnam War.

On May 5, 1984, he married the love of his life, Sally Stempihar, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Wakefield.

Irv was a member of the Bessemer American Legion Post 27 and the Bessemer Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3673, and a supporting member of the Honor Guard. He was a member of the Gogebic Range Professional Businessmen’s Club, formerly the Bessemer Township Professional Men’s Club.

Irv was employed as an industrial arts teacher at the Bessemer, Wakefield and Marenisco schools, and was self-employed for many years.

Irv is survived by his wife, Sally; a son, Quentin; a brother, Walter (Pat); a sister, Helen Griffiths; numerous nieces and nephews; other loving relatives; and many friends.

He was predeceased by his parents; a brother, Jack; a sister and brother-in-law, Natalie and Creighton Lederer; and his brother-in-law, George Griffiths.

Out of respect for his wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no service.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed online at lakesidememorialchapel.com