Merle Peter Matz

Merle Peter Matz of rural Waseca passed away on June 8, 2026.

Born on March 24, 1958, in Rochester, MN, Merle was the son of Vinton and Doris (Felske) Matz. Merle grew up on his family’s farm in rural Waseca and graduated from Waseca High School in 1976. Following his graduation from high school, Merle began working at Bird's Eye, where he remained employed for 46 years until his retirement. Alongside his career, he devoted himself to farming, raising crops as well as cattle and hogs, a reflection of his lifelong connection to agriculture.

On September 24, 1977, Merle married Kathleen Schmidt at Trinity Lutheran Church in Janesville, Minnesota. They were blessed with two children, Michelle and Matthew, before divorcing later. In November 2008, Merle met the love of his life, Rita Jennings. Their first date was at Burger King in Denison, Iowa, and what began as a simple outing blossomed into a loving relationship that endured for the rest of his life.

Merle had a deep love for his family, especially his role as a grandfather and great-grandfather. He treasured the time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and took great pride in watching them grow and succeed. Merle loved NASCAR and enjoyed attending races with Rita whenever he could. He was also a dedicated Mavericks hockey fan and a proud Blue Line season ticket holder.

Merle will be lovingly remembered by his true love, Rita; children, Michelle (Taco Torres) Aragon and Matthew Matz; grandchildren, Samantha (Ben) Gondreau, Francis (Nick) Matz, Selena Aragon, Lyncin Torres, Michael Aragon, Xavyer Torres, Alexander Matz, and Aiden Matz; great-grandchildren, Felicity, Madelyn, Charlie, LC, and baby Franklin who is on the way; brother, Rev. Curtis Matz; and brothers-in-law, Wayne Christofferson and Jerry (Eva) Radcliffe; along with many nieces, nephews, and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; sisters, Sandra Ross and Deloris Christofferson; sister-in-law, Darlene Matz; and nephew, Douglas Ross.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Trinity Lutheran Church in Janesville, MN. Merle’s family will greet guests at a visitation on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the Third Street Chapel of Dennis-Steffel-Omtvedt Funeral and Cremation Service in Waseca, MN and one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be at St. John’s Trinity Lutheran Cemetery – Iosco.

Merle’s family invites you to honor him by wearing NASCAR or Mavericks attire to the visitation.