Theodore "Ted" Joseph Nemetz

Theodore “Ted” J. Nemetz, 86, of Forest Lake, MN, passed away at the Minneapolis VA Hospital on Sunday, August 9, 2026. Formerly of North Branch, MN where he was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, and of St. Paul where he was a 1958 graduate of Wilson High School.

Ted was a man of deep faith and unwavering strength and energy. He was a proud U.S. Army veteran, an engineer, and earned an honorable discharge. He went on to serve as a police officer in Mounds View, MN, worked for over 30 years as an over-the-road truck driver, and was a representative for a manufacturing company where he traveled both domestically and internationally.

Ted is survived by his devoted wife, Joan “Jody” Nemetz; his children, Julie (Mick) Douglas of Geneva, IL and Scott of Cambridge, MN; cherished grandchildren, Madeleine and Claire Douglas and Eli and Kaijah Nemetz; brothers Tom (Marge) and Dick Nemetz, several nieces and nephews, as well as extended family and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by parents, Joe and Louise (Lindow) Nemetz; sister and brother-in-law, Patricia and Harlan Schmiedeberg; and daughter-in-law, Lisa Nemetz.

Ted was proud of his 48 years of sobriety, gaining deep humility and gratitude. His journey in recovery was his greatest personal accomplishment. He found purpose and hope through supporting others walking the same path.

He was an excellent trap shooter, an avid reader, and a superb cook (especially of his award-winning chili) and bread baker, most of all he appreciated being with family and friends, reminiscing and traveling. He was an ardent Minnesota Gophers fan!

Services will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive in Forest Lake. Visitation will be from 1:00-2:00 pm and the service at 2:00 pm. Lunch to follow. Interment at Ft. Snelling at a later date.