Gwendolyn Joyce Mattson Kendig
1951–2025
Gwendolyn Joyce Mattson Kendig, 74, of Rochester, New York, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2025. Born on January 11, 1951, Gwen was a woman defined by her enduring faith, charitable spirit, and vivacious disposition, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and generosity that touched many lives.
A devoted, lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Gwen’s faith was evident throughout her life, commencing with an impactful 18-month missionary commitment in her youth. Her professional and personal life, though unlisted in official capacities, was rich with service and dedication. Possessing exceptional skill in fiber arts, particularly cross-stitch, she channeled this talent into profound philanthropic endeavors, creating numerous hand-crafted blankets and comfort items that provided solace and warmth to cancer patients and others.
Gwen is fondly remembered for her keen sense of humor, which frequently brought laughter to her family and community. Her lively and enthusiastic nature was often on display as she participated in various Church talent show presentations. Furthermore, her profound dedication to animal welfare spanned decades, during which she committed many years to the rescue and sheltering of numerous abandoned dogs and cats, reflecting her deeply compassionate heart.
Ms. Kendig was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Carl Alexander Kendig, and her parents, Jesse Oliver Mattson and Mildred DeHart Mattson.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Jessica Kendig; her brother, Lawrence Mattson (Ann) of Rochester; six cherished grandchildren, seven adored great-grandchildren, and four nephews. Gwen also leaves behind an extensive, loyal circle of devoted friends and associates who were enriched by her kindness.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 1400 Westfall Rd, Rochester, NY. Interment will be private.
In lieu of floral tributes, memorial contributions may be directed toward the Humane Society of Greater Rochester, 985 Bay St. Rochester, NY 14609, a cause that honors Gwen’sprofound commitment to animal welfare and rescue. If out of state, feel free to contribute to a humane society or animal shelter of your choice.
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I was very sorry to hear about Gwen’s passing. She was such good person. She’ll be missed by many people.
Her husband Carl was my cousin and we still miss him. I know Gwen missed his greatly. Now they will be together again.
I was very sorry to hear about Gwen’s passing. She was such good person. She’ll be missed by many people.
Her husband Carl was my cousin and we still miss him. I know Gwen missed his greatly. Now they will be together again.
Sister of My Heart
Who would have thought so many years past
that we could become good friends so fast.
We were thrown together to achieve a goal
I did not realize the goal was my soul.
I was unsure what needed to be done,
but you were the pro, and you made it such fun!
You had one daughter, I had three
they became so close, just like you and me.
We visited the sisters on our route,
Making sure none of them got left out.
You never let things get you down,
I learned from you how NOT to frown.
And then we both worked at the same company,
but it always felt like fun to me.
All this while, the friendship quickly grew
into something much more than I even knew.
You claimed me your sister, in love and in soul,
and I felt it too, and made it my goal.
To open my heart and my spirit to you
and to all of the sisters on our route too.
When Carl died, and your heart bled
I could only hug you to calm your fears.
I made it my job to bring back your joy and your smile
and keep the dark thoughts away for a while.
I kept close over the next few years,
trying to lift you over your fears.
I moved away and I know you were scared
but we made sure the visits were frequent, you knew that I cared.
The girls turned teens and were growing up fast,
we knew these times would not last.
We had lots of adventures, and lots of great fun.
We thought those days would never be done.
We aged, our kids moved away, fully grown,
then started families all on their own.
Grandchildren, and great-grands have filled up our days
and through phone calls and texts we shared all their ways.
I know you are in a wonderful place,
with loved ones so joyous to welcome you there.
But, Gwen, my heart is in pain, and one thing is clear,
I’m not quite ready for you not to be here.
So you save me a place there by your side,
When it’s my time to meet you, we’ll continue our ride.
We’ll laugh and rejoice, together once more,
our hearts back in rhythm and time as it were.
We’ll light up the heavens with the joy that we see,
sisters in spirit, as always you and me.