Darrel T. Mathieu, 83, of Luck, Wisconsin, passed away at his home from metastatic kidney cancer on June 9, 2024. He was born on Feb. 6, 1941, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Theodore and Nina (Johnson) Mathieu. After graduating from Patrick Henry High School, he attended the University of Minnesota and St. Cloud State, eventually earning a Master’s Degree in Psychology.
He settled in Brainerd, Minnesota, where he worked for the state Department of Economic Security as an employment counselor and served in the Army National Guard. He also was a coroner. In Brainerd, he met his wife of 56 years, Janice (Lindholm) and they had two daughters. Darrel and Jan relocated to Luck after they retired and came to love their new community.
One of Darrel’s earliest memories was banging pots and pans to celebrate Victory over Japan Day. His interest in World War II was lifelong and he’d go “lights out” in any Jeopardy category related to that era.
Darrel was a renaissance man. He could build or fix about anything and was particularly skilled as a woodworker. His stunning furniture was featured in magazines and earned him an exhibition at the Luck Museum. He loved silent sports, including running, cross-country skiing, cycling and sailing. Darrel was known for his homemade bread, which he joyfully shared with friends and neighbors. With his wife and their friends, he traveled widely. He was generous with his time, volunteering with the Luck Museum, Ruby’s Pantry and the Ice Age Trail. Above all, Darrel was a family man. He adored his wife, his daughters and their families, and treasured time spent together.
Darrel is survived by his beloved wife; children, Andrea Mathieu (Chad Kinzer) of Amery, Wisconsin, and Jayna Paquin (Roger) of St. Paul, Minnesota; four grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Darlene Birkeland; son-in-law, Mark Bedard; and aunt and uncle, Alma and Oscar Erikson.
A memorial will be held on Sunday, June 23, at 2 p.m. at his home in Luck, with brief remarks at 2:30 p.m. Any memorials may be directed to the donor’s choice or the Luck Area Historical Museum.
