On Aug. 16, 2025, an overflow of 700 people filled the Puyallup Adventist Church gymnasium and sanctuary as family, friends, colleagues and students gathered to celebrate the life of devoted educator Craig Lee Mattson. A beloved husband, father and friend, his influence continues to ripple through countless lives across the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
Mattson, who served as Washington Conference vice president for education from 2017 to 2022 and later returned to lead Northwest Christian School as principal, was remembered as a man whose faith, joy and love for people defined his life and ministry. His calling was Adventist education, but his passion was people.
Born Sept. 21, 1978, Mattson reflected a deep commitment to faith and family. He and his wife, Lizzette “Lizzie,” married in 2005 and built a Christ-centered home while raising their two daughters, Emma and Nicole. Remembering her father, Emma shared, “He knew kids needed to feel loved before they could learn. He always made them feel safe and valued the same way he made everyone feel. My dad believed in humanity as a precious creation of God.”
Mattson’s journey in education took him from recruiting for Newbold College to serving in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and ultimately to Washington Conference. Whether mentoring teachers, shaping policies or kneeling beside students in the hallway, Mattson was known for his relational leadership and unwavering belief that everyone deserves to feel seen and appreciated. He believed Adventist education could transform lives.
Friends and family remembered Mattson’s infectious laugh, adventurous spirit and ability to make everyone feel like his best friend. He embraced life fully — from spontaneous bonfires and rock-hunting adventures, to mentoring international students and supporting colleagues during challenging seasons.
Melissa Howell, pastor, described Mattson as “an explosion of God’s love” — someone who lived intentionally and joyfully, with faith at the center of everything. Stories from neighbors and students portrayed him as a man who lived his values, used his spiritual wisdom to bless others and encouraged educators and students to believe in God’s purpose for their lives.
Mattson’s life touched students, parents, teachers and friends worldwide, leaving a community deeply shaped by his compassion and vision. While his passing leaves a profound void, his influence endures through the students he taught, the leaders he mentored and the family he loved.
As the service closed, Lizzie invited attendees to hold onto Mattson's ability to find clarity amid life’s toughest situations. “I don’t have clarity on why we had to face this loss,” she said, “but I do have the certainty that God has been with us every step of the way.”
To continue Mattson’s passion for Adventist education, the Craig Mattson Endowment Fund has been established. For more information or to donate, contact jdolson@nwchristianschool.org.
Mattson will always be remembered for his love and care for others.
Pastor Melissa Howell shares of her experience knowing Mattson for over 30 years as a friend.
Nicole Mattson shares a daughter’s perspective honoring the life and service of her father.
In shared sorrow, voices lift in worship, offering peace and hope to all who mourn a cherished friend.
With standing room only, the gathering became a sacred space to honor the life of someone cherished by so many people.
Members of the community express thankfulness for being part of Mattson’s life.
Students share stories of how Mattson served daily as an inspiration to others and as a spiritual mentor who guided others to Christ.
