Sally Mae Matson-Herrmann, 89, of Tigerton, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.
Sally was born on August 2, 1936, in Tigerton, the daughter of Tom and Ada (Omitt) Johnson. Following the death of her father, she was lovingly raised by Edward Polley, who became a devoted father figure in her life.
On October 30, 1954, Sally was united in marriage to John "Kenny" Matson Sr. in Tigerton. They shared more than 53 years of marriage before Kenny preceded her in death on January 12, 2008. Sally was blessed to find love again and married Bruce Herrmann on September 12, 2009, in Wittenberg. Bruce preceded her in death on March 9, 2018.
Sally grew up in the Town of Germania and cherished her country life on the farm near her childhood home. She had a passion for rummage sales and was always on the lookout for hidden treasures. Sally became well known for hosting one of the area's best annual rummage sales, where she especially enjoyed visiting with customers and friends. She also loved browsing secondhand and thrift stores.
Some of Sally's happiest moments were spent relaxing on her deck, taking in the peaceful surroundings. She delighted in watching the birds, tending to her flower, herb, and vegetable gardens, and enjoying the playful antics of her chickens, geese, cats, and horses.
Sally looked forward to lunch dates with friends and treasured every opportunity to spend time with her family. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren brought her immeasurable joy and filled her heart with love.
Sally is lovingly survived by her children, Barbara (David Yonker) Matson, John "Kippy" Matson Jr., and Laurie Matson; her grandchildren, Becky (Brandon) Merckes and Chris Matson; and her great-grandchildren, Nicolas and Parker Merckes.
She was preceded in death by her husbands, John "Kenny" Matson Sr. and Bruce Herrmann; her parents, Tom Johnson and Edward and Ada Polley; and her siblings, Edward "Hardrock" Johnson, Pam Polley-Dankmeyer, Roger Polley, and Sharon Dedolph.
A funeral service for Sally will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at St. John Lutheran Church in Tigerton, with Pastor Dean Suehring officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.
Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home of Wittenberg is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Memories and messages of support may be shared at www.schmidtschulta.com.
The family would like to thank the Peritoneal Team at Aspirus Wausau Kidney Care for all of the wonderful care they provided.
