1943
2024
Loren Craig Mathis
November 4, 1943 – January 13, 2024
Mount Vernon, WA
(formerly of Wenatchee, WA)
Loren Craig Mathis, a true son of Montana, was born in Great Falls on November 4, 1943, to Dorothy and Raymond Richards. Loren grew up in and loved the White Sulphur Springs area, working various jobs including ranching, timber, and Forest Service. As a Boy Scout in the 50's, Loren hiked through Glacier National Park.
Loren was very proud of his family's military background and his own service. His Uncle Francis was lost during Operation Market Garden during WWII. Following his uncle's footsteps, Loren joined the Army in 1964, where, after Infantry School, he completed Airborne School proudly earning his jump wings. Loren was then selected for Special Forces but was diverted to Vietnam. In Vietnam, Loren was assigned to MACV and served in harsh times in a three man team as a radioman fighting with the Montagnards. Never wavering, he served in combat in Vietnam from June of 1965 to May of 1966, as a non-commissioned officer and military advisor. He was then transferred to West Germany, finishing his enlistment helping secure the German border as a cavalryman and section sergeant with the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regt. Loren's decorations and accomplishments include the Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Honor Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Parachutist Badge, and Combat Infantryman Badge.
Loren returned to his beloved Montana and finished his high school degree. He worked various jobs over the years, mostly as a journeyman millwright. Loren was a true craftsman with his welding and mechanical abilities.
In 1986, Loren met his true love, Janice, and they were married in 1989. With that, he became a wonderful step-father to three military men: Rod, Jeff and Greg. Loren and Janice lived in various locations before landing in Wenatchee, WA, where Loren went on to a 24-year career with Alcoa.
Loren retired at the age of 70, and lived comfortably with Janice. The couple moved to Mount Vernon, WA, in 2018.
Loren was preceded in death by his mother and father; and his grandparents: Chet and Babe Benedict. Loren leaves behind his wife of 35 years, Janice; step-sons: Rod, Jeff, and Greg; brothers: Lane and wife, Janet, Dana and wife, Pam. Loren reserved a special place in his heart for his beloved niece and nephews: Layla, Monroe, Chad, Adam, and Caleb, in addition to numerous great-nieces, nephews, and cousins. Loren smiled a mile wide as he proudly spoke of them.
Loren passed away gently in his sleep on the night of January 13, 2024, after a period of declining health and fading memory, but not before telling Janice he loved her and speaking one last time to his beloved brother, Lane. Loren will always be a part of Montana and our hearts, and remembered for how much he cherished his family and the happiness he brought to those around him. A gentler man will not be found.
Loren will be interred with military honors on June 29, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at the Veteran's Memorial at Union Cemetery, 1450 Wicker Rd., Sedro-Woolley, WA. A Reception will follow at Cascade Christian Church, 534 Township, Sedro-Woolley, WA. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice on behalf of Loren.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1 Entry
John Hunt
August 31, 2024
Rest in peace Loren. Ì enjoyed the days we spent working together at the sawmill.
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