Louis Oscar Mattsfield

Louis Oscar Mattsfield passed away on April 25, 2026, surrounded by family. He was born on September 26, 1941, in Litchfield, Minnesota, to Hazel (Martens) Mattsfield and Harry Mattsfield. He grew up alongside two step-siblings, Marlys and Bruce Nystrom, and one half-brother, Calvin Nystrom.

After high school, Lou enlisted in the United States Marine Corps—once a Marine, always a Marine. He proudly served for six years before returning to civilian life.

He later attended Brown Institute, where he studied computer programming. This led to a long career with the Great Northern Railroad, later BNSF, where he met the love of his life, Vicci Johnson. They were married on July 17, 1971.

In 1978, Lou and Vicci made their home in Wyoming, Minnesota, where they lived together ever since. They both retired from BNSF in the late 1990s.

Lou found great joy in working with his hands. He was an avid woodworker, building a wide range of furniture, including beautifully crafted rocking chairs inspired by classic designs. He also loved spending time outdoors—hunting on the back 40, fishing, and muzzleloading shooting.

Lou is survived by his loving wife, Vicci; his daughter, Laura (Kurt) Schulz; and his brothers, Bruce (JoAnn) and Calvin (Priscilla) Nystrom; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Marlys Peterson; his parents, Hazel and Harry Mattsfield; his stepfather, Boyd Nystrom; and his stepfather, Harold Martens.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Northwoods Humane Society in Wyoming, Minnesota.

A Celebration of Life will be held 4-6 PM, on Friday, July 17, 2026, at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake, MN.