James Mattke, age 81, of Huron, died on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at Peaceful Pines in Huron, SD. His funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at American Lutheran Church in Huron, SD, with burial at Restlawn Memory Gardens. Visitation with family present will be from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, October 17, 2025 at Welter Funeral Home in Huron; or visitation one hour prior to the funeral service at the church.

Jim's funeral service will be live streamed through American Lutheran Church Facebook page.

James "Jim" Mattke was born on March 23, 1944, to Art and Elsie (Kukuk) Mattke in Huron, South Dakota. He attended Cain Creek Clifton #4 Country School for eight years before graduating from Huron High School in 1962.

In May of 1961, Jim joined the Army National Guard, proudly serving until April 1969. During his service, he trained as an airplane mechanic and worked on helicopters. After his discharge, he attended South Dakota State University for two years before deciding to explore the country as a truck driver for Allied Van Lines. Jim later began a 32-year career with Northwestern Bell Telephone Company, where he held many roles over the years—including lineman, installer, and pay phone repairman and collector.

As a young man, Jim was active in 4-H, showing cattle and pigs, and served as president of the Beadle County 4-H Council. He also participated in FFA and wrestling during high school. Throughout his adult life, he continued to serve his community, holding leadership roles as president of CWA Union 7506 and of the Huron Telco Credit Union, and as a dedicated member of American Lutheran Church.

On September 2, 1967, Jim married Karen Smith, and together they shared 58 wonderful years. They loved to travel and proudly visited all 50 states. For 25 years, they spent winters in the Texas Hill Country, enjoying motorcycle rides and friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Jim had a deep passion for motorcycles, fishing, and camping with family and friends. He especially loved giving kids motorcycle rides or pulling sleds behind four-wheelers in the winter. Always willing to lend a hand, Jim was never afraid to tackle any job—whether plumbing, electrical, or carpentry. He will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, generous heart, and love for adventure.

He is survived by his wife Karen of Huron; sister-in-law Fern Marie Mattke of Huron; several nieces and nephews, great and great-great nieces and nephews who were all very special to him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Phyllis (Harold) Modine, brothers Leonard (Betty) Mattke and Larry Mattke; nephew Mark Mattke; and his parents-in-law.

In lieu of flowers the family asks for memorials to be dedicated to the American Cancer Society, American Lutheran Church of Huron or the Chrisitan Learning Center.