Jackson, Matthew McLaughlin 1951 - 2024

JACKSON, FISHER, LOUDIS

Posted By: Joy Moore (email)
Date: 3/16/2024 at 12:49:40

Matthew McLaughlin Jackson, 72, passed away just after midnight, Jan. 25, 2024, from a cerebral hemorrhage after a fall.

Matt brought light and joy to countless people, and everyone who knew Matt would attest to his generous and inclusive spirit, his quirky wit, and above all his empathy and compassion for others.

Matt was a teacher in the Mabel-Canton School District for 35 years where he was a champion for students’ well-being and success. He believed in public service and was passionate about the interests of those in need. He never gave up on anyone.

He was born in Denver, Colo., in 1951, the second of four sons of William and Patricia Jackson. He was a brilliant athlete: a leader on his East High School tennis team, which won Colorado state championship in 1969, and starter as East High’s football quarterback and baseball catcher.

Although admitted to Harvard, Matt instead hitchhiked across Europe with the woman who would become his wife, Dana Nevill Fisher. Neighbors since they were 16, they fell in love picking grapes in southeast France and were married on May 31, 1974; they were 23.

Matt discovered Decorah visiting a friend. He and Dana settled in a small intentional community north of town, built their own house and raised a family: son, Samuel, and daughter, Sophie. Matt loved being a father and it suited his patient and wise nature.

After his retirement, he traveled frequently in the U.S. and Ireland. He became a devoted participant in trivia night, and he was always ready to head out to a major league baseball game. In retirement Matt also found joy and tranquility in the natural world around his home, in the movement of the wind in the trees and in the endlessly changing weather. Matt was a uniting force; he reached out to maintain connections with people and he strengthened the bond of love between those lucky enough to live in his orbit. His last days in the hospital were spent in the company of his closest friends and immediate family.

Matt is survived by his wife, Dana; son, Samuel; daughter, Sophia; daughter-in-law, Claire Loudis; son-in-law, Thomas lllk; grandson, William; and granddaughter, Frances. He will be greatly missed.

A gathering will be held at TBocks in Decorah on Friday, April 12, at 2 p.m.

Source: Decorah Newspapers Mar. 13, 2024