Loren Ewald Matzke

Northview ~ North Mankato Mortuary 2060 Commerce Drive North Mankato, Mn 56003 507-388-2288 Loren Ewald Matzke, age 80, of Good Thunder, passed peacefully in his daughter's home on Saturday, October 31, 2015. Memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, November 5, 2015 at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Mankato, with Paul Kyle as minister. Visitation will be held from 4 - 7 p.m. on Wednesday, November 4, 2015 at Northview-North Mankato Mortuary. Visitation continues one hour prior to the service at the church. Memorials may be given to the donor's choice. Loren Matzke was born August 21, 1935 to Ewald and Meta (Hausburg) Matzke in Mankato. He graduated from Rapidan High School in 1953. Loren served in the Army National Guard from 1957-1963. He was united in marriage to Margaret Meissner on July 14, 1963 in Copperas Cove, TX and celebrated every day of his loving marriage. He had a shepherd's heart all of his life, becoming completely responsible at age 12 for his flock of sheep. In 1975, he became the first organic farmer in the Good Thunder area and continued farming and ranching organically until shortly before his death. Loren enjoyed traveling, writing, and studying the history of his family and Minnesota lands. He strongly believed in the power of love and need for reconciliation for all communities. Loren was actively involved with Native Americans in recent years. He was a faithful member of the body of Christ and treasured fellowship with family and friends. Loren is survived by his wife Margaret; three daughters, Ruth (Keith) Anderson of Fairmont, Deborah Matzke-Lewis (Scott) of Good Thunder, Joanna "Faith" Solano of Mankato; 12 grandchildren; one-great grandson; brother-in-law, John (Mary) Mertesdorf of Good Thunder; other in-laws; nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Norma and Barbara.