David Mathes

David Lee Mathes passed away on January 25, 2026.

David was born in Clayton, Kansas on June 3, 1935. David graduated from Norton Community High School in 1954; the class had 54 students. He and five others of his classmates left Norton and joined the Marine Corps. He was enlisted during the Korean War. You can see his Marine Corp Dress at the Decatur County Last Indian Raid Museum in Oberlin. After that he went to work for himself in Norton and worked in a body shop for a few years. After that, David devoted 29 years to working for KN Energy, making $2 per hour when he started. He retired from there in 1995. David also spent 20 years working at the amusement authority, serving as President for the Oberlin Fair. David also enjoyed participating in the Lions Club where he was a member for many years serving his community.

David loved to travel with his wife, Karen. They were married for 42 years and never apart. Together they bought a 5th wheel camper and enjoyed retirement together. Traveling to Mathis, Texas, Branson, Misouri, New Orleans and Duluth, Minnesota was one of the many highlights they enjoyed together. It wasn’t often you would hear either of them say “no” to their next adventure in life. As time went on, both would settle down in Berthod, CO where they lived for several years. David enjoyed his crafts and woodworking. His legacy lives through multiple pieces of art he has made for his friends and family.

David was a devoted father to five, a grandfather to five, a great grandfather to seven, and a friend to many. David is survived by his children, Mike Mathes, Sheri Forbes, Timothy Mathes, and Lewis Mathes; his grandchildren, Dustin, Kelby, Madison, Colton and Kyndall; and several great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents John and Margaret, his wife Karen and his infant son Larry Mathes; siblings, Patricia, Jimmie, Billy, Alice, and Mary.

David was cremated at his request. His ashes will be interned with his loving wife in the Norton, KS Cemetery in the family plot.