Bruce Matthiesen

Bruce William Matthiesen was born on September 7, 1949, to Harvey and Mary (DeBates) Matthiesen in Pipestone, Minnesota. While growing up, Bruce loved fishing with Squeaks Farrah and Gary Dahms, playing fastpitch softball, playing Rolle Bolle with family and friends, and bowling at the Jasper Lanes. He always had a hard delivery while bowling, his pin action would make the Larsons cringe when he struck the pins. Above all his activities he participated in his early years, he loved baseball the most. Bruce was an extremely talented baseball player; he was scouted by the Minnesota Twins and he had participated in the World Championship of fastpitch softball.

Bruce was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Jasper, Minnesota. He attended Jasper High School, graduating in 1967. Following graduation, Bruce worked at the Jasper Stone Company for many years before working at the Jasper Elevator, where he helped pour slips for silos. After his time at the Elevator, he worked for Witcop Construction, where he framed houses in South Dakota, both East and West River. In 1991, Bruce began working for Continental Grain and also hauled scrap iron for recycling. Bruce was married to Connie Lou Schnepf and to this union, three kids were born – Bryce, Bridget and Weston.

There are many things Bruce will be remembered for. He was known for his many one-liners he would use including “FACT!”, “GOSPEL!”, and “MAKE GOOD DECISIONS!”. Bruce could always be found fist pumping to music, particularly listening to The Doors. He loved nature and wildlife, spending hours bird watching and oftentimes donating to animal support organizations. Bruce loved to enjoy a good beer with friends, he had an open-door policy; he would give you the shirt off his back to help you. One particular piece of Bruce’s wisdom that will live on, is that a good burger had both mayo and butter on it.

Bruce is survived by his children, Bryce (Erica) Matthiesen of Long Prairie, Minnesota, Bridget (Jim) Benz of Pipestone, Weston (Mandy) Matthiesen of Pipestone; siblings, Dianne (Glenn) Lorenzen of Jasper, Minnesota, LeeAnne (Greg) DeRuyter of Okabena, Minnesota; brother-in-law, Bryan DeRuyter of Ruthton, Minnesota; grandchildren, Brooke, Bree, Braeden, Jessie, Jade, Jackson, Jada, Junior, Kade and Kegan; and great-grandchildren, Boone, Riplee, Roree, Arden, Aiden, Ranger, River, and two on the way. Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Mary Matthiesen; and sister, Lynne DeRuyter.

“HOW YA LIKE ME NOW!”

Those attending Bruce's Celebration of Life are encouraged to wear Minnesota Vikings, Minnesota Twins, or Jasper clothing.