Irma Jean Matey (Marang)

Irma Jean Matey (Marang), age 80, of Blaine, MN, passed away on October 23, 2026. She was born in Jacksonville, Florida, on December 17, 1945, to Ray and Edith Marang (Gray). She grew up in Jacksonville, where she met her husband, Richard “Dick” Matey. They married in 1970 and raised four daughters.

Irma was a jack of all trades. Over the years she ran a daycare, worked at Cardiac Pacemaker, was a florist, and drove a school bus for Pine City. She and Dick drove school buses together well into their retirement.

At home, Irma was an avid crafter. She sewed, knitted, quilted, made macramé and cards, and scrapbooked. She was always learning something new, from keychains to letter openers to quilts. She was also an amazing cook who loved feeding her family and friends. Whether hunting and fishing with Dick in the early years or exploring new places with friends from her apartment, she was happiest spending time with the people she loved.

Grateful to have shared her life are her daughters, Rita Froiland (Lars), Carol Matey, and Chrissy Kjoberg (Brian); grandchildren Tiffany, Breann, Wyatt, Kenzie, Kayla, Preslie, Ashton, and Bristol; great-grandchildren Braylon, Piper, Romy, Corbin, Brynn, Penelope, Adeline, Brooks; and many beloved friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dick; and her daughter, DeDe.

She will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.