Kenneth Charles Matson, a longtime resident of Panama City, died June 1, 2022, in Pensacola, where he moved after being displaced by Hurricane Michael. Ken was born Dec. 31, 1938, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Andrew and Ethel Matson.  His father, and all his paternal and maternal grandparents, were born in Sweden, and he was very proud of his Swedish heritage. Ken grew up in Kansas City and attended the local schools, and then completed undergraduate and graduate studies in Mathematics at the University of Kansas. Following his time at KU, he accepted a position as a Mathematician at what was then known as the Navy Mine Defense Laboratory, now the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division. He retired in 2005 with 42 years of federal service.

When Ken was twelve years old, he began studying trombone, which became a great passion of his life. He played in youth orchestras, high school band, and was a member of the Marching Jayhawks. After moving to Panama City, he continued to play in community orchestras such as the Panama City Pops, the Bay Wind Band, as well as First Baptist Church and several other area churches. When he moved to Pensacola, he played in the Pensacola Concert Band and the orchestra of First Baptist Church, Pensacola.

His love of music was superseded only by his love of the Lord. Ken professed Jesus Christ as his Savior at the age of ten and remained an active and involved follower of Christ his entire life. He was ordained as a deacon in the Baptist church and supported his local church, and many international ministries, with his time and resources.

Ken was very dedicated to his family. He met the former Elaine Braly, a cellist, in youth orchestra, and they were married July 28, 1962.  They have two children, Kristine King (Michael) of Pensacola and Neil Matson (Jill) of Panama City, and three grandchildren, Carmen Matson, Andrew Matson (Kaleigh), and Matthew Matson, all of Panama City. He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant sister, Elaine. Ken was a devoted husband, father, and granddad. He enjoyed spending time with family, and the long summer car trips to Kansas City when his children were young are legendary.

Interment will be at Evergreen Memorial Gardens, and a memorial service of Ken's life will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, the family prefers acknowledging Ken's memory through contributions to the music ministry of First Baptist Church, Panama City, or Through the Bible Radio Ministry.