Harold "Tug" O. Mathisen

The world lost a True Southern Gentleman on Saturday, December 26th. Harold Oliver (Tug) Mathisen, Jr. came into the world August 10, 1941. Although named for his father (H.O.Mathisen- Mother Mary M. Kanapaux). His dad immediately called him "Little Tug" due to a striking resemblance to an old family friend. Tug's wife, Betty Brown Mathisen, along with his sister Bernadette Godfrey (Thomas) two sons H.O. "Trey" Mathisen, III (Amy) and Rhett P. Mathisen, will miss Tug more than we can imagine. There are 3 grandchildren Caroline, Thomas and Olivia. A successful artist working in watercolor and acrylic mediums, Tug was a member of Courtyard art Gallery in downtown Charleston. Tug had a long career with BellSouth, and proudly served our country in the Army. Tug's artwork "Jukebox Gate" was the commissioned 2015 Piccolo Spoleto Festival poster. Favorite subjects were Porsche sports cars, Charleston Ironwork, and Lowcountry scenes. One of Tug's favorite things to do was to share his love of Charleston history with friends and family. Going out in the boat was always on the agenda too because Tug loved being in the water and salt marshes around his hometown.Tug rarely missed the annual Daytona Rolex 24 race - he was always pulling for the competing Porsches. Tug was a charter member of the Palmetto Chapter of the Porsche Club of America. One of his roles was Rallye Master. He planned day long road races (rallye), creating detailed instructions with questions used by car owners to compete. "Tug Art" was usually the sought after prize. Dancing was a big part of his life too - Tug was a great dancer. He grew up shag dancing in Charleston. He and his friend Andy Grooms and their buddies hitch hiked Friday and Saturday night to dances at Little Ritchie's on Isle of Palms and the Sands on Hwy 17 on Saturdays. Tug had his own distinct style. Tug was a member of the Charleston Shag Club and held a life membership at the Charleston Rifle Club. He was loved by many in all walks of life. We will miss the smile, the twinkle in his eye, the dances and will treasure the time we were blessed to have with him.The relatives and friends of Mr. and Mrs. Harold O. "Tug" Mathisen Jr. are invited to attend his Memorial Service at 7:00 PM Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at the James A. McAlister Chapel, 1620 Savannah Highway, Charleston. The family will receive friends between 5:00 and 6:45 PM at the funeral home. Burial will be private. Online condolences may be offered at www.CharlestonFunerals.com. Flowers are appreciated or memorials may be made to Lowcountry Children's Center, 1061 King Street, Charleston, SC 29403