After 78 blessed years, Carole Maxine Matson (Rummel) found eternal rest in the arms of Jesus on December 31st, 2014. A 400 word obituary could not possibly begin to convey the kind of woman she was or the life that she lived. She lived an extraordinary life, and it was her faith in Christ, strength of mind and unfailing love to all she met that set her apart.
She was born in February, 1936 in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, to parents Emmert Silas Rummel and Margaret Charlotte Stuart. The youngest of six children, she was richly loved by her family, and she had a special bond with her mother, Margaret. She cared for her ailing mother until her death in 1958. While living in California, she met and married Daniel Matson in 1964. They later moved to Albany, Oregon. Together, they raised five daughters.
Carole had an extraordinary work ethic. When she and Daniel arrived in Albany, she worked for US National Bank and later at Industrial Welding Supply for over 20 years. She was a proud charter member of Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church where she was a member of the Alter Guild and the Lutheran Women's Missionary League. She forged lasting friendships with members of the church, and loved the time she spent with her church family.
Two things took precedence in Carole's life and remained priorities even while battling Alzheimer's - her faith in Christ and the love she had for her family. She took refuge in God's Word and in Christ, believing that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Carole endeavored to share Christ's love with others throughout her time on earth. She loved fiercely and she will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Margaret and her father, Emmert; brothers Stuart, Emmert and Tommy; and sisters Catherine and Mary. She is survived by husband Daniel Matson of Albany; five daughters and their spouses: Mary Napolitano of Albany; daughter Lori Underwood and husband Dean of Albany; Jackie Williams and husband David of Sweet Home; Tracy Huffstutler of Albany; and Joyce Johnson of Washington; sister-in-law Betty Rummel of Lake Forest, California as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Carole ("Granny") is also survived by 51 grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church, Albany at 11am, Friday, January 9. A private family graveside service will precede the memorial service. Contributions in her memory can be made to Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Albany.


AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home is handling the arrangements ( www.aasum-dufour.com ).