Rodney Mathewson

Rodney Orville Mathewson, 77, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, passed away on October 23, 2026, at his home.

Rod was born on April 4, 1949, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to Orville Harry Mathewson and Lennea Violet Styhl Mathewson. He grew up in Idaho Falls and graduated from Idaho Falls High School in 1967.

Following high school, Rod proudly answered the call to serve his country, spending three years in the United States Army, including service in Vietnam, where he attained the rank of Sergeant. Upon returning home, his commitment to his country continued as he served an additional eight years in the National Guard. His military service was a chapter of his life that reflected his dedication, courage, and strong sense of duty.

In 1973, Rod married Barbara Clement, and together they welcomed two children, Justin and Mandy. Although their marriage later ended in divorce, their years together brought him the gift of family and the children who would remain an important part of his life.

In 2000, Rod met Marie Holverson, who became his longtime companion and remained faithfully by his side for the next 26 years. Together, they shared life’s adventures, everyday moments, and a lasting companionship that meant so much to them both.

Rod dedicated nearly four decades of his life to working as a machinist at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL), beginning his career in 1972 and retiring in 2011. He took great pride in his work and was known for his strong work ethic, skill, and dedication. His career was a testament to his perseverance and commitment to doing things right.

While Rod worked hard throughout his life, he also knew how to enjoy it. He had a passion for the outdoors and loved riding motorcycles, hunting, fishing, camping, and snowmobiling. Whether he was cruising down the highway on his motorcycle, spending time in the mountains, or enjoying the peace and quiet of the great outdoors, Rod was happiest doing the things he loved.

But what made those adventures truly special to Rod was sharing them with the people he cared about. He made it a point to involve his family in his hobbies and adventures, passing along his interests, experiences, and love of the outdoors to his children and grandchildren. The memories made during those times will remain some of the most treasured gifts he leaves behind.

Rod loved his family and friends deeply and had a personality that was unmistakably his own. He was a man who enjoyed life, appreciated a good laugh, and wasn’t afraid to show his affection in his own unique way. Those who knew Rod well understood that a friendly wave wasn’t always his preferred greeting. More often than not, his signature hello came with a mischievous grin and a middle finger raised high. It was his own special way of saying hello, a gesture that his friends and family came to recognize, laugh about, and even look forward to. It was simply Rod being Rod.

He leaves behind not only a lifetime of memories and adventures but also the laughter, stories, and traditions that made him unforgettable. His love for his family, his sense of humor, and his enthusiasm for sharing the things he enjoyed will continue to live on through those who knew him.

Rod is survived by his longtime companion, Marie Holverson; his son, Justin (Lori) Mathewson; his daughter, Mandy (Dwight) Brown; his five grandchildren, Sofie, Dasha, Ethan, Parker, and Maya; his sister, Nancy Grover; and his niece, Ashley (Adam) Prophet.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Lennea Violet Styhl Mathewson; his father, Orville Harry Mathewson; his stepmother, Marie Muirbrook Mathewson; and his brother-in-law, Doug Grover.

In accordance with Rod’s wishes, there will be no traditional funeral or church service.

Military honors will be conducted at Fielding Memorial Park Cemetery at 12:00 noon on Saturday, November 14, 2026.

Rod’s family will honor his life with a Celebration of Life to be held at a later date, bringing together family and friends to share memories, laughter, and stories of a man who lived life in his own unforgettable way.

Though Rod may no longer be here to share another adventure, tell another story, or offer one of his unforgettable greetings, the memories he created and the love he shared will remain with those who knew him.

Rest easy, Rod. Until we meet again, we’ll be sure to give you a proper wave, just the way you liked it.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.woodfuneralhome.com.