Melvin Matthies, 90,, has passed away, leaving behind a family and community who loved him dearly.
A life is more than dates on a stone; here is a small portion of his story.
Melvin's story began in 1932, and unfolded across the years that followed.
Melvin held deeply to the Lutheran faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
What is held in faith is rarely lost.
Melvin Arthur Matthies passed away on March 2, 2023 at the Tieszen Memorial Home in Marion, South Dakota. He was 90 years old. Funeral services will be at 2:00pm Thursday, March 9, 2023 at Trinity Lutheran Church, rural Hartford with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be an hour before services. Arrangements by Hofmeister Jones Funeral Home. Melvin was born on March 20, 1932 to Herman and Emma (Jastram) Matthies on the family farm near Hartford. Melvin attended rural school through the 8 th grade. He graduated from Sioux Falls High School in 1951. After High School, Melvin was drafted into the Army for 2 years. Melvin was a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Hartford, SD. Melvin worked at Morrell's for many years. He also delivered flowers for a local florist and enjoyed bringing a smile to people's faces. Melvin was a good carpenter and helped with many projects for the church, friends, and family. His passion was helping others. His hobbies included fishing, watching the deer on the farm, and putting his amazing green thumb to use while working with plants and gardening. Melvin wasn't one to sit long, he loved to keep busy. We were all blessed to have him in our lives. Melvin had been a resident at the Tieszen Memorial Home since 2016. He received much love and care during his time there. We are forever thankful and grateful to the Tieszen Memorial Home. Preceded in death were his parents Herman and Emma, brother Ronald, his infant brother and sister, brother-n-law, Art Doppenberg, brother-n-law, Denny Tate, and his special friend, Clarice Wixon. He is survived by his children, Kristie and Ronnie, his sisters, Leona Doppenberg and Doris Tate, sister-n-law, Marilyn Matthies, and many nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews. He was very proud of them.
