Harry Matheson

Harry S. "Sam" Matheson, 88, of Breckenridge, MN passed away at his residence in Breckenridge on Friday, June 15, 2018. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, June 21, 2018, at Joseph Vertin and Sons Funeral Home in Breckenridge with visitation one hour prior to the service.

Harry was born on January 10, 1930, in Breckenridge to Harry F. and Selma (Ness) Matheson. He grew up on North 3rd Street, along the Otter Tail River, and attended the Breckenridge High School. In his younger years, Harry had a great time growing up with his siblings and often liked to tell stories about their many adventures on the river.

After graduating in 1948, he worked on a large paper route before enlisting in the United States Army, to help with the war efforts, in 1951. He was first stationed at Fort Rucker Boot camp in Dale County, AL and later, was deployed to Germany for 22 months. During his time in the army, he was able to utilize “furlough” to explore the greater part of France and Amsterdam. Harry loved the opportunity to serve his country and was eager to see as much of the world as possible.

Upon his return to the United States in December of 1952, Harry and his brother, John, worked together in the family moving business-Matheson Movers. The brothers worked together until John was married. After this, Harry took over the business from his father, who became the Wilkin County Sheriff. He owned and operated Matheson Movers for over 60 years and served his clients in the Ottertail County, as well as the Breckenridge area. Harry also owned a sheep farm for nearly 20 years. On top of managing the farm and the family business, Harry owned and operated The Last Resort Bar and Dance Hall on Long Lake, north of Fergus Falls, MN, for 10 years.

Harry was active in the local VFW, American Legion, and the Military Order of Cooties. He was also a member of Breckenridge Lutheran Church and spent time serving with the Wilkin County Honor Guard. In his later years, he enjoyed going to Branson, MO and started heading south to Pharr, TX in March of each year.

Harry is survived by his brothers, Virgil Matheson of Breckenridge, MN, and John (Elaine) Matheson of Fargo, ND; and his many nieces and nephews.

Harry is preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Selma (Ness) Matheson; his sister, Geraldine Langseth and her husband Verle Langseth; and his special friend, Jean Garberg.