LEONA JANE MATSON passed away at peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, November 6, 2008 at the age of 88 years. Leona is survived by her sons, Alan (Sheila) Matson and Randy (Bonnie) Matson; daughter Ava (Doug) Matisz; eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren. She leaves behind her sister Julie Nierenberg of Issaquah, Washington. Leona was predeceased by her parents, George and Mary Santa; four brothers, George Jr; John; Joe; and Steve Santa; and two sisters, Mary Hutchinson and Anne Gatten. Leona was born April 22, 1920 in the Milk River farming district of 1-17. She moved to Milk River at the age of 16 where she began her restaurant career. At age 19, she married Loyd Matson and began raising their 3 children. In 1970, she purchased and ran for 14 years, the successful drive-in on the highway known as ‘The Milky Way’. She never left home without a deck of cards in her purse, her hair done or earrings on. She loved her cards, music, dancing, gardening and cooking for all. There was always room at the table for one more. Relatives and friends are invited to a Celebration of Leona’s Life at the MILK RIVER CIVIC CENTER, 321- 3 Avenue NE, Milk River, Alberta, on Saturday, November 22, 2008 at 2:00 P.M. with Terry Michaelis officiating. Interment to follow in the Milk River cemetery. Donations may be made to the South Country Jamboree Society, or the Heart & Stroke Foundation, #207, 542 7th Street South, Lethbridge, AB, T1J 2H1 or a charity of one’s choice.