Arlen Curtis Matson began life's journey in Michigan's Upper Peninsula during the iron mining era. Most of his childhood years were spent in Ironwood and Iron River. As the mines...voir plusArlen Curtis Matson began life's journey in Michigan's Upper Peninsula during the iron mining era. Most of his childhood years were spent in Ironwood and Iron River. As the mines closed and the economy suffered, his family moved to Cadillac in the lower peninsula.
Wth the advent of the Korean War, he enlisted in the air force and shortly thereafter married his high school sweetheart, Arlene. After spending two of his four years in Morocco, he attended Central Michigan College graduating with a BS Degree in elementary education.
The next 32 years were spent in Traverse City raising a family of 5 children, and teaching at Old Mission Peninsula, Oak Park and Sabin Elementary Schools. His love for children, and the "great outdoors" identified him as a teacher. Every summer he would return with his family to the Upper Peninsula and its wilderderness places.
After his retirement from teaching, one of his 3 major goals was the writing of a book he promised his students. The ADVENTURES OF ANDERSON was born from the experiences he had as a boy. Set in the beautiful habitat of immense forests and prolific waterfalls surrounding Ironwood and Iron River, the spell of Lake Superior began to once again permeate Mr. Matson's craving to write. Much like the book, PADDLE TO THE SEA, his writing is a blend of informational adventure; however, in this case there is also the additional search for spiritual meaning.
He and Arlene reside in Traverse City on their 9 acres of nature. They continue to camp, hike and minister to their 19 grandchildren. Mr. Matson is a key leader in the development of the North Country Trail in northern Michigan, teacher in his church, and in 1994 founded the Grand Traverse Hiking Club along with his friends.voir moins