Evelyn Mattes

Evelyn Mattes, age 100, died Friday November 28, 2014 at Evergreen Terrace. Evelyn was born on December 24, 1913 to the late Mose A. and Clara (Wege) Jansen in Phlox. Evelyn attended St. John Catholic School and was a graduate of Antigo High School class of 1931. She developed an early dedication and talent for music, beginning with her father's purchase of an accordion for the family in 1923. Following high school, Evelyn joined her father in his investment company in Antigo. She continued her interest in music, both teaching and forming the Evelyn Jansen Accordioniers. The group played throughout Wisconsin and parts of Minnesota and in every local parade. She furthered her study of music when she moved to New York training under the direction of renowned musicians, Dick Contino and Joe Biviano. During this time in New York she met Rudy Mattes. The couple was married in May of 1943 in Antigo. Mr. Mattes preceded Evelyn in death on November 22, 1969. She continued to give piano and accordion lesson in Antigo until retiring in 1997. In addition to her musical talent, Evelyn was a skilled seamstress and carpenter. Evelyn was a member of St. John Catholic Church. Survivors include 3 daughters, Barby (David) Wagner of Sebring, FL, Lynn (Steve) Fermanich of Antigo, Sandy (Bill) Resch of Antigo, a son, Karl (Jennifer) Mattes of Brookfield, WI, 6 grandchildren, Leah (Michael) Pucci, Stephanie (David) Hauser, Barry (Sheri) Fermanich, Matthew (Elizabeth) Fermanich, Kory Knutson, Abbey Mattes, 8 great grandchildren, Nicki, Sam, and Joe Hauser, Katie, Christian, and Julia Fermanich, her namesake Grace Evelyn Fermanich, and Abigail Fermanich. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Her life was also touched by her dear caregivers, Sharon Lott and Glenda Schave. In addition to her parents and husband, Evelyn was preceded in death by 5 sisters, Beulah Rennferd, Isabel Jansen, Phoebe Dodge, Bernice Meisner, Jeanne Timmons, and a brother, Miles Jansen. A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 26 at 10:30 AM at Strasser-Roller Funeral Home. Visitation will be prior to the service from 9:00 – 10:30 AM at the funeral home. Rev. Omer Kelley will officiate. A memorial will be established in Evelyn's name for the Antigo High School and Middle School music departments. The family of Evelyn extends a heartfelt thank you to Sarah and Gary and all the girls at Evergreen Terrace who took such loving care of our mother, grandmother and great grandmother. They are truly angels here on earth.