James Edward Matthys was born on April 15, 1935, in rural Cottonwood, to Peter and Elsie (Labat) Matthys. He grew up on the family farm and attended school near Cottonwood. Jim enlisted and served in the U.S. Army. On August 16, 1958, he was united in marriage to Joanne Wambeke. The couple farmed and raised their family near Wood Lake. Jim obtained a welding degree from the Dunwoody Institute in Minneapolis and attended agriculture school at the Granite Falls Vocational Technical School. Jim enjoyed farming, raising crops and livestock, and John Deere equipment. He also enjoyed welding as a hobby and completed many projects for friends and family. He loved stock car racing. He was most passionate about his family, especially his grandchildren.
James died unexpectedly on Friday, January 16, 2015, at his residence in rural Wood Lake. He is survived by his wife, Joanne, of Minneota, children Brenda (and Chris) Petersen of St. Cloud, FL, Lisa (and Mark) Cuhel of Winsted, Scott (and Bonnie) Matthys of Wood Lake, son-in-law Jay Stolp of Milroy, grandchildren Dustin Stolp, Tiffany (and Cole) Guetter, Sean Petersen, Makenzie Petersen, Samantha Cuhel, Cody (and Jessika) Cuhel, Adam Cuhel, Brandy (and Matt) Van Winkle, Jimmy Kerby, great-grandchildren Asbjorn, Kjell, Cora and Gabriel, siblings Art (and Donna) Matthys, Leroy Matthys, John Matthys, Joseph (and Marcella) Matthys, Mary Lou Thompson, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Linda and grandson Tyler.
In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the American Cancer Society.
Blessed Be His Memory
