John William Matthees

John William Matthees, age 80, of Red Wing, passed away at his home on Tuesday, May 26, of natural causes.

John worked for many years as a contractor and took great pride in building and working with his hands. He enjoyed a simple life and found happiness in the things that mattered most to him.

John was happiest outdoors and especially loved the Alaska wilderness. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, watching animals, and searching for morel mushrooms. He treasured traveling back to Alaska and loved stopping at national parks on the way to Seattle to board Alaska cruises. He also had a love for casinos, a joy and passion he and Sandra shared together.

He loved to talk, share his knowledge, and continue learning. John had a special interest in astronomy, and anything related to science. He was also an avid NASCAR fan and looked forward to racing season each year.

John is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Matthees, of Red Wing, with whom he shared 60 years of marriage; daughters, Kandace Kirchner of Red Wing, Christine (Gary) Kallestad of Blaine, Bonnie (David) Kemp of Zimmerman, and Jennifer (Heather) Matthees of Red Wing; grandchildren, Kayla (Kyle), William, Sarah, Megan (Jesse), Jenna (Oscar), Matthew (Ellie), Tyler, and Anna; sisters, Joan Fredeen of Anoka, Marie (Curt) Strusz of Goodhue, and Althea (Marty) Voth of Red Wing; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Dorothy Matthees; in-laws, Beverly and Meredith Mathews; granddaughter, Breanna Kemp; his aunts, uncles, and cousins; brothers-in-law, Vern Fredeen, Joe Mathews, Marv Roesner; sister-in-law Gracia Roesner.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 11 AM at St. John's Lutheran Church, rural Goodhue. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Burial with military honors will follow in the church cemetery.

Memorial Contributions in John’s Memory can be made to Elysian Fields Dementia Care (Red Wing) or St. John’s Goodhue Cemetery Fund.

Arrangements by Mahn Family Funeral Home, Bodelson-Mahn Chapel, Red Wing.