Matthew Dale Klefstad

Matthew Dale Klefstad, 51, of rural Pekin, North Dakota, passed away on October 1, 2025.

Matt was born in McVille, ND, on October 19, 1973, to Lanny and Tammy Klefstad, their first of three children. From a young age, he was an adventurous and curious boy who loved exploring the outdoors, playing with his dog, and helping on the family farm. His “helping” sometimes led to a little mischief — like the time he got himself locked in the dryer or lost in the woods while “chasing cows” at the age of three. He was also a proud and protective big brother to his two sisters, Nicole (Nikki) and Heather.

A proud fifth-generation farmer and rancher, Matt poured his heart into the land and the life it provided. He grew up surrounded by the values of hard work, humor, and kindness — qualities he carried with him throughout his life.

Matt attended Tolna Public School, where he was involved in sports, speech, academic challenges, and theater. Always ready with a quick wit and a smile, he loved making people laugh and think. He was also a talented competitor, earning the title of State Champion in the “Know Your State” competition before graduating in 1992.

He attended the University of North Dakota and later transferred to Lake Region State College, where he earned his Associate’s Degree in Agra Business. Matt went on to Valley City State University, where he became a proud member of the EBC fraternity. His intelligence, humor, and charisma made him a beloved friend to many. He graduated from VCSU with a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting & Finance.

While at Valley City State, Matt met his first wife, Haley (Syvertsen) Klefstad, and they married on June 3, 2000. Together they raised four children who were the light of his life: Kelland (“Poot”), Kamden (“Bam Bam”), Kodee (“Bubbs”), and Kinleigh (“Baby Girl”).

Matt was a devoted father who adored his kids — willingly letting Kinleigh give him makeovers, telling endless dad jokes, and proudly cheering them on in all their adventures. Already a football fan, it was no surprise to find him on the sidelines, but he also became a devoted “dance dad,” convinced his own moves could rival Kinleigh’s. His children are living legacies of his dedication to family, having inherited his love of history, eclectic taste in music, mischievous sense of humor, corny jokes, and those long eyelashes.

In addition to farming, Matt worked as a CNA during the winter months and had a special touch with the farmers he cared for. He also served as an EMT and was a valued member of the McVille Ambulance.

In June of 2019, Matt met Tina March, the woman who would become his partner, best friend, and wife. Their love story began with antique store dates and Matt teaching Tina how to open gates. It was when Matt took her to her first UND hockey game that he knew she was the one. From there, their partnership grew through fixing endless miles of fence, checking cows on the darkest nights, running side by side in the harvest fields, gardening, cooking, canning, and even hauling manure together. They shared countless laughs watching Molly B Polka Time and cheering on their beloved UND hockey team. On a cold January 11th, 2020, they were married and vowed to love each other “’til the cows come home,” becoming Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Klefstad.

The two never had a dull moment, filling their seven years together with adventure, laughter, and love that echoed through the river valley.

Matt had an endless curiosity and a deep love of history, legends, ghost stories, and Norse mythology. He was proud of his Norwegian, German, English, Irish, and Scottish roots. A lifelong learner and avid reader, he could always be counted on for an interesting fact, a fascinating story, or a perfectly timed pun.

He was a passionate sports fan who could often be found cheering on the UND Sioux hockey team, Chicago Cubs, Chicago Blackhawks, Georgia Bulldogs, and Pittsburgh Steelers. A softie at heart, Matt had a special love for animals — especially his loyal dog, Barqs, and his cats, with a particularly strong bond to Miss Stache.

Those who knew Matt will remember his mischievous grin, sharp mind, and heart of gold. His humor was quick, his sarcasm unmatched, and his laughter infectious. Whether he was cooking up something delicious, quoting Monty Python, or sharing stories over Dots pretzels and popcorn with his granddaughters, Matt brought warmth, laughter, and light wherever he went.

When he married Tina, Matt also gained six wonderful granddaughters who thought the world of him. He cherished his role as “Grandpa,” complete with special nicknames and plenty of treats.

Matt lived a full and meaningful life — one filled with curiosity, compassion, and joy. His legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife, Tina Klefstad; his children, Kelland, Kamden, Kodee, and Kinleigh Klefstad; his parents, Lanny and Tammy Klefstad; his sisters, Nicole (Nate) Johnson and Heather Klefstad; niece Brinklyn Johnson; nephew Tucker (Amelia) Johnson; stepchildren Austin (Bailey) March and Brittany (Quentin) Simon; granddaughters Mylee, Lainee, Hadlee and Kaycee March, and Alexa Biel and Mackenzie Simon; the mother of his children, Haley Klefstad; his beloved pets; and many cherished aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Arnot and Mercedes Klefstad; maternal grandparents, Thomas and Margaret Kelland; and several much-loved aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Honorary Pallbearers: Luke Klefstad, Andy Klefstad, Brian Quam, Kevin Walford, Brian Vanek, Paul Haugland, Cory Donohue, Paul Breckheimer, Darren Lee, Joey Braun, Brent Messner, Mark Opoien, Clay Stein, and all his EBC fraternity brothers.

Visitation: Monday, October 6, 2025, from 5–7 p.m., with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m., at Sheyenne Lutheran Church, rural Pekin, ND.

Memorial Service: Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at Sheyenne Lutheran Church, rural Pekin, ND.

Burial: Klefstad Family Cemetery, rural Pekin, ND.

Please join the family for lunch and fellowship at the Pekin Community Center following the burial.

In true Matt fashion, the family invites you to come however you’re most comfortable — your Sunday best, your favorite team jersey, or your farmer bibs straight from the field. He’d want everyone to show up just as they are, authentic and real. Bonus points for repping one of Matt’s favorite teams!