Loretta Caroline Mathiowetz, daughter of Joseph and Mary (Gewerth) Mathiowetz was born in Eden Township near Sleepy Eye, Minnesota on May 8, 1923. Loretta attended country school in Eden Township, District 35, and St. Mary’s High School in Sleepy Eye where she graduated valedictorian and received a scholarship to the College of St. Teresa in Winona, Minnesota. At the College of St. Teresa she enrolled in the nursing program and completed her clinical training at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota. She was best in her class and was awarded another scholarship from the College to continue her nursing education and completed her Baccalaureate Degree. Years later, Loretta continued her education and earned a Master’s Degree at the University of Minnesota.

Loretta enjoyed bedside nursing but liked teaching even more, spending the majority of her career as an educator. She began her teaching career in a diploma RN Program. This led to an opportunity to be involved in a research program teaching LPNs. Following that she worked at the State of Minnesota Department of Education in the Vocational Education Division. While there she developed education programs in the health field, including LPN programs as well as programs for dental, occupational therapy and medical assistants. Loretta continued her career teaching at the newly established RN program at Minneapolis Community College. She taught there for 18 years until her retirement.

Loretta resided most of her adult life in St. Paul but moved to Fairmont in 2002 to be near her sister, Evelyn. For nearly 18 years Loretta and Evelyn were inseparable; they played and laughed together, and helped each other during difficult times. Their companionship during these years was truly a blessing for them both.

Loretta loved to travel, visiting every state and traveling abroad to many interesting destinations. Her trusty 35mm camera was always at the ready to capture an interesting scene. Loretta enjoyed reading, especially mystery stories. An avid and adventurous cook, she was always willing to try an unusual fruit or vegetable and explore different and interesting ways to prepare them. She loved to entertain, hosting many family holidays and dinners with friends. Walking was always a pleasure, usually a mile or two a day. She loved playing games, especially scrabble which she would sometimes play well into the night. You could always rely on Loretta to tell a good story or joke and she was never short on material.

Loretta’s memory will be cherished by many, many nieces and nephews and their families whose lives have all been touched by her.

Loretta is preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Mary Mathiowetz; Brothers Raymond, Clarence, Leo, Harold, Joseph, Norbert, and Robert; Sisters Rosalia Zwaschka, Angela Hornick, Evelyn Betts, and Ann (died in infancy).

Memorials in honor of Loretta may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

www.lakeviewfuneralhome.net

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