Earl Mattison Jr. was a lifetime member of Salina United Methodist Church of the Cross and an active member of the community. Many Salina residents will remember Earl from tour groups that traveled from this area, county farm and dairy activities, 4-H, Tri-River Fair and Rodeo or just because he was a physically extraordinary man who was easily recognized by his height of 6’7” and amputated left arm.

When Earl was young, he always knew he would be a farmer and considered himself blessed to work at a job he loved. He was a loving father, grandfather, brother and uncle. His strength in diversity, living by example and his generosity to others will define his life.

Earl was preceeded in death by his parents, Earl and Eunice Mattison; first wife, Eunice, in 1989; and one granddaughter, Haley Ann Larsen.

He is survived by his second wife, Maxine M. Mattison; daughters, Susan L. Wisbey, of Beloit, Kathy Mattison Mulvihill, of Overland Park, and Karen Larsen, of Salina; one brother, Harold Mattison; two sisters, Dorothy Long and Marjorie Graham; extended family, Becky Miller, Terry Fager, Bonnie Fromdahl and Tamara Harris; grandchildren, Leslie M. Goheen, Casey Larsen, Fletcher Mulvihill, Harrison Mulvihill and Whitney Larsen; and great-grandchildren, Grant Larsen, Madison Larsen and Brooklyn Larsen.

A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Friday at Church of the Cross United Methodist, 1600 Rush St., Salina 67401. A private family inurnment will be in Highland Cemetery, New Cambria. There will be no visitation.

Memorials are suggested to the church, Hospice of Salina or Presbyterian Manor.Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. Eighth St., Salina 67401, is in charge of arrangements.