David Allen Mathison

David Allen Mathison was born on July 16, 1967, in St. Louis Park, MN. He passed away on December 9, 2025, in his home in Kilkenny, MN, with his wife at his side.

David was a man who never tried to fit into the world as it was handed to him—and never wanted to. He lived quietly, deliberately, and entirely on his own terms, guided by an uncommon intelligence, a dry wit, and a deep belief that life was meant to be lived, not rushed through or traded away for things that did not matter. He believed time should not be sacrificed endlessly in pursuit of material things, but spent doing what brings meaning, curiosity, and happiness. True to those beliefs, he spent his life doing exactly what he chose to do, learning what interested him, and refusing to bend to standards he didn’t believe in.

A lifelong jack of all trades, David took pride in his ability to teach himself nearly anything. Of all his skills, he excelled most in his work with HVAC, where his precision, problem‑solving, and craftsmanship truly shined. He was extremely intelligent, deeply knowledgeable, and stubbornly self‑reliant—qualities he carried with confidence.

From a young age, David had a deep passion for motorcycles. What began as a childhood fascination grew into a lifelong appreciation for the freedom, mechanics, and independence they represented. Riding was more than a hobby—it was an extension of who he was and how he experienced the world on his own terms. He also found peace on the water through kayaking, valuing the solitude, reflection, and connection to the natural world.

When he wasn’t working or riding, David found joy in learning, thinking, and appreciating the small things others often overlooked. He was not a people person, but to those he welcomed into his inner circle, he was loyal, wise, and extremely funny. His dry humor, sharp observations, and ability to find meaning in simplicity made time spent with him feel genuine and grounding.

David valued freedom—freedom of thought, freedom of time, and the freedom to live life by one’s own standards. He believed no one should be pressured to live any life other than the one that felt true to them, and he lived as an example of that philosophy every day.

Above all else, David cherished his family. He shared a deep and devoted bond with his wife, Karyn, and took immense pride in his marriage. He also took great pride in his children and grandchildren. His love was steady, unconditional, and evident in the way he showed up for those closest to him. He would have wanted to be remembered most for this.

David is survived by his wife, Karyn Mathison; his children, Joseph Anderson (wife Katrina), Jason Anderson, and Jessie Mathison; his mother, Ginger Sly; his stepfather, Bruce Sly; his siblings, Richard Mathison, Eric Sly, and Danette Kerkow; and his grandchildren, Tara, Kaylee, Teia, Thomas, Ariya, and Shyla.

He was preceded in death by his father, Allen Mathison; his paternal grandparents, Engvald and Avis Mathison; his maternal grandparents, Bess and Donald Nelson; and other family members who welcomed him before.

David did not seek to leave behind monuments or accolades—only proof that it is possible to live honestly, think freely, and walk your own path without apology. 

Your absence will be felt, but your presence remains in the memories, lessons, and quiet moments you shared with those who loved you. We take comfort in believing you are watching over us, and we look forward to seeing you again one day.

We love you.

David's family will host a private gathering to celebrate his life at a future date.