Long-time Northwestern Oklahoma State University physics professor, Dr. Lee R. Matthiesen, entered his last classroom on January 25, 2011. Ever the teacher, Lee, donated his body to medical education and research for the further study of glioblastoma brain cancer.
Lee was born in Enid, OK, to Paul and Cecil Matthiesen on June 14, 1939. He was graduated from Enid High School in 1958 and received his B.S. in math and chemistry in January, 1960 from OSU. At Emporia State University, he discovered his love of physics and received a Masters Degree in 1965. He attended Oak Ridge Nuclear Labs the summer of 1965, and was graduated from OSU with his Doctorate of Education in 1972.
Lee went to NWOSU in 1965, where he helped build much of the physics lab equipment and developed the physics department. In 1979, Lee established the computer department, taught classes and ran the computer operations of the college until 1987, when he returned to the physics department.
Lee leaves behind a wife of 50 years, Sue of Grove; a son and family, Gregg and JoVona Matthiesen and children Ryan and Stephanie of Broken Arrow, OK; a daughter and family, Shannon and Greg Davis and children Jonah, Harrison, and Addison of Webster Groves, MO; and Cindy Matthiesen of Tulsa, OK. He is preceded in death by his parents and an infant daughter, Julie Kay.
While on campus, Lee developed a love of wood turning and continued to turn beautiful pieces in retirement. He and Sue loved Grand Lake and traveling the world. Lee played racket ball, golf, and was active in civic affairs.
Always a strong advocate for NWOSU, of teaching, and of continued learning, Lee helped open many minds to the wonders of our world. He will be greatly missed.

DUE TO THE INCLEMENT WEATHER, THE FAMILY HAS POSTPONED THE MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR DR. LEE MATTHEISEN UNTIL 1:00 PM SATURDAY FEBRUARY 19, 2011 AT THE GROVE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Memorials may be made to The Northwestern Foundation at http://www.nwfoundation.com, or the Grove Rotary Foundation at P.O Box 452286, Grove, OK 74345-2286.
Friends and family may leave online condolences by viewing Lee’s obituary at www.ellisfuneralhome.com.

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