Funeral services were held for Donald “Don” Matti, age 83 of Buffalo, Minn., on Tuesday, March 2, 2021 at 1 p.m. at the Plymouth Apostolic Lutheran Church in Plymouth Minn., with Pastor Joel Baker officiating. The hymns were sung by the congregation, accompanied by Thomas Needle. The pallbearers were William Evans, Vincent Yncierto, Khalil Yncierto, Maxwell Matti, Kylie Yncierto and Cassandra Evans.  Honorary pallbearers were Zach Evans, Finn Matti, Devon Matti, Zia Matti and Josie Matti. Military Honors were provided by Charles D. Center V.F.W. Post #3289 of New York Mills, Minnesota.  Don was laid to rest in Woodland Cemetery, New York Mills. 

Donald Clayton Matti was born on August 8, 1937 in Newton Township, rural New York Mills. His parents were the late Everett and Minnie (Isaacson) Matti. Don was baptized on November 11, 1937 and confirmed July 20, 1952 at the Apostolic Lutheran Church in New York Mills. He graduated from New York Mills High School with the Class of 1955.   

  Don proudly served in the United States Army from March 18, 1959 to November 27, 1959. When he returned, he was employed at the mines on the Iron Range and then made his home in the Twin Cities.  

  On June 1, 1963 Don was united in marriage with Genevieve Rose Pesola. Their marriage was blessed with four children: Clayton, Scott, Sonya, and Sarah. They resided in the Twin Cities and Coon Rapids for nine years. In 1971 they made their home in Buffalo, Minn. Don was employed by Smith Lumber in Spring Lake Park, Minn. and also worked with various construction companies. Don owned and operated Don Matti Construction Company in Buffalo, Minn., for thirty years.  

  Don enjoyed the “Let’s Go Fishing” program, where he would take seniors on pontoon boat rides around Lake Pulaski. He enjoyed woodworking, golf, watching sports, skiing, traveling, puzzles, and spending time with his family. Don had a strong belief and faith in the Lord.  

  Preceding Donald in death were his parents; brothers: Edmund, Kenneth, Floyd, Stanley, Glen, and Harold Matti; sisters: Mabel Matti, Mildred Szymonowicz, Margaret Bremseth, Marlene Nathe.  

  Donald is survived by his wife, Genevieve Matti; children: Clayton Matti, Scott (Heather) Matti, Sonya (William) Evans, and Sarah (Vincent) Yncierto; nine grandchildren: Devon, Cassandra, Zach, Zia, Max, Khalil, Josie, Kylie, and Finn; sisters: Myrtle (Roger) Larson and MaryAnn (Robert) Malisheski; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.  

  Please visit www.karvonenfuneralhome.com to leave memorials and condolences on Don’s  Tribute Wall. 

Arrangements provided by Karvonen Funeral & Cremation Service of New York Mills,.