Inside the 2025 Matthiesen Gathering

In the heart of North Dakota, nestled among green fields and gently rolling hills, the Matthiesen family gathered once more in the place where so many of their stories began. The 2025 Matthiesen Family Reunion, held in the welcoming town of New Salem, was more than a gathering. It was a celebration of connection, heritage, and the enduring bonds of family.

As relatives arrived from near and far, the weekend unfolded with a rhythm that felt both familiar and deeply comforting. There were warm embraces, cheerful handshakes, and conversations that picked up as if no time had passed at all. Faces new and familiar lit up with joy as stories flowed and memories resurfaced beneath the expansive North Dakota sky.

Saturday’s community parade was a highlight for all ages. Lining the sidewalks of downtown New Salem, family members waved and laughed while the younger generation filled their pockets with candy tossed from festive floats. The atmosphere was light, the spirit was high, and for a few sweet hours, time itself seemed to slow. 

That evening, the reunion dinner brought everyone together under one roof. Laughter echoed across the room, and the unmistakable energy of shared belonging filled every corner. It was an evening that will be remembered not only for its delicious food and camaraderie, but also for a live auction that brought plenty of smiles, spirited bidding, and more than a few stories in the making. Proceeds from the auction will help fund future reunions, but the memories made that night are priceless.

Among the most poignant moments of the evening was a tribute to Ken Matthiesen and his wife, Karen. With grace, humility, and a deep love for family, they have quietly stewarded reunion efforts for many years. Their dedication has helped preserve not just events, but traditions and connection. As the room stood to honor them with a heartfelt ovation, there was a collective understanding that this was a meaningful goodbye to one chapter, and a warm welcome to another. Their legacy is woven into the fabric of these gatherings, and will continue to be felt for years to come.

Sunday morning brought a soft rain, the smell of pancakes and sausage, and the warm hospitality of the Matthiesen men who rose early to cook breakfast for the group. There is something truly special about sharing a meal made by family, for family. In that moment, over syrup and coffee, the weekend felt complete.

For those who could not attend, there is much to look forward to. A new Matthiesen Family Reunion Committee has been formed and is already preparing for what comes next. I am honored to be working alongside Joanne Snavely, Tad Letzring, Kevin Krumvieda, Chris Zuhn, and Brenda Bae. Together, we are committed to creating a gathering that welcomes everyone, from the littlest feet to the oldest hearts.

Looking ahead to 2030, we are reimagining a space that is inclusive, thoughtful, and reflective of what matters most to our family. Accessibility, comfort, and connection are our guiding goals. We will soon be reaching out with a family-wide survey, because this reunion belongs to all of us, and your voice matters.

As we close the chapter on this year’s gathering, we do so with full hearts and deep gratitude. To every person who showed up, who shared a story, who extended a hug, or washed a dish... thank you. You are what makes this family strong.

Until we meet again, may we continue to stay connected, keep the stories alive, and honor the love that brought us all together in the first place.

With love, laughter, and legacy,
Tawn Smith