Dr. Robert R. Matheson

Dr. Robert R. Matheson

November 28, 1931 – January 14, 2026

Dr. Robert R. “Doc” Matheson, 94, of Newton, Iowa, passed away on January 14, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and joy.

He is lovingly survived by his wife of 72 years, Joan; his children, Michelle (Gerald) Buchanan, Kristin (Joe) Johnson, Sally, and Rob; nine grandchildren, Elizabeth (Will) Milton, Katherine Buchanan, Christine Buchanan, Andrew (Lauren) Johnson, Caroline Johnson, Alli (Dan) Snyder, Laura (Daniel) Skoglund, Olivia Matheson, and Zoe Matheson; and great-grandchildren Hayden and Kinsley Johnson.

Bob was born in Denver, Colorado, on November 28, 1931. After the early loss of his father, he and his mother moved to Minnesota, and later to Park Ridge, Illinois, where he was raised. Summers spent on his stepfather’s Wisconsin farm sparked a lifelong love of animals and the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, and woodworking became cherished pastimes, and these early experiences inspired his dream of becoming a veterinarian.

At age 12, Bob discovered another lifelong passion—golf—while working as a caddy at Tam O’Shanter Golf Course, where he even met Ben Hogan. In high school, he excelled as a student-athlete, earning a football scholarship to Iowa State University. There, he played varsity football from 1950 to 1952, joined Army ROTC, and graduated in 1953 with a Bachelor of Science in Forestry.

While at Iowa State, Bob met the love of his life, Joan VanGronigen. They married on August 21, 1954, beginning a partnership that would span more than seven decades. Shortly after, Bob served as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, training at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, and later serving as Company Commander in the 2nd Signal Battalion at Fort Gordon, Georgia. Though he valued his military service, his passion for veterinary medicine ultimately led him back to Iowa State, where he earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1961.

After a brief time practicing in Ottumwa, Bob settled in Newton, where he co-founded the Newton Animal Clinic in 1964. Over the years, he built a thriving practice caring for both large and small animals, earning the trust and respect of the community. He remained closely connected to Iowa State through research in swine and cattle management and was an early advocate for the use of probiotics in animal health, publishing several papers on the subject.

Bob was engaged in his community, contributing his time and energy to organizations including the Animal Rescue League, Chamber of Commerce, Jaycees, Isaac Walton League, and the Newton Country Club. Golf remained one of his greatest joys, and he shared that passion generously—teaching his children and celebrating many achievements, including winning the Iowa AVMA State Tournament three consecutive years, permanently retiring the traveling trophy.

Family was at the heart of Bob’s life. He and Joanie raised their four children in a home filled with laughter, curiosity, and adventure. He loved taking his family on ski trips to Colorado, instilling in them his appreciation for nature and new experiences. Known for his warmth, humor, and easygoing nature, Bob never met a stranger and made friends wherever he went.

Dr. Matheson’s kindness, humor, and zest for life will be remembered by all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the community he served, and the countless lives—both human and animal—he touched.

Doc’s Celebration of Life will be held May 23rd, 2026, at 1pm in the DMACC Conference Center in Newton.

Memorial contributions may be made to:

1. Iowa State University - All Creatures Great and Small Veterinary Scholarship    Website: foundation.iastate.edu

2. Iowa State University - Iron Dog Fund     

Funds are used to support the veterinary care of companion animals.    Website: foundation.iastate.edu   

Or call: 515-294-2531

3. Hospice - Wesley Life

Website: wesleylife.org        

You may specify online if you want your donation to go to hospice in Newton.   

You may also call 515-271-5127