May 23, 1977 –  November 17, 2014  Our beloved son, Matthew Oliver Floerke, was born in Thief River Falls, MN on May 23, 1977. He went to be with his Father in Heaven on November 17, 2014. Matthew was laid to rest in the Oak Grove Cemetery on the morning of November 21, 2014 with a comforting graveside service conducted by Bishop Kevin Stewart. A beautiful memorial service was held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2014 with Bishop Kevin Stewart officiating. Services were under the direction of Meador Funeral Home, Gainesville.He was preceded in death by his grandparents Agnes and Albert Floerke and Pauline and John Fulmer. Matthew is survived by his parents, Sandra and Kent Floerke of Gainesville; sisters, Kendra Manon, Kristine Clinton and husband Gary and Dana Patterson; brothers, Mark Floerke and wife, Cinda and Michael Floerke and wife, Carla; uncle, Bill Floerke and wife, Nancy; aunts, Scheila Cox and husband, Allen, Shloe Flannagan and Sharil Floerke and many nieces and nephews.
Matthew attended elementary and middle schools in Alma, Russellville and Conway, Arkansas. His love for athletics was stimulated by receiving awards in basketball and track at an early age. During the 1991-93 school years at Huttig High School he was awarded varsity letters in baseball and basketball – quite a feat for a youngster who was only 5’6″ tall. Several years later he grew to be 6’4″ tall and towered over his teammates. He also attended high school in Wellington and Conway Springs, Kansas. One of his classmates commented, “I remember him being such a kind-hearted guy and later a talented musician.” In addition to receiving letters in track and field, Matthew was an avid sports fan and enjoyed writing about BYU and the Dallas Mavericks. His interest and participation in athletics became a lifelong goal. He was a good student and graduated from Conway Springs High School in 1995.
Matthew had a great love for the Savior; he was sealed to his parents in the Salt Lake City Temple in 1979. He was baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in 1985. One of the great events of his life was to be called as a missionary for our church. He was assigned to serve his Lord in the Germany Leipzig mission for a period of two years. This was a time of profound happiness and joy as he represented the Lord as a minister of the Restored Gospel.
Matthew’s love of his life was music, which he created and enthusiastically shared with others. During the past few years, he composed original music and wrote lyrics for more than a dozen songs. He was featured on the NPRS Online Open Show and performed on the Fox 7 News Morning Show. Two of his favorite songs are “Orchid Child” and “Four Leaf Clover.” He taught himself and others to play the guitar. His goal was to be recognized as a professional musician and song writer. For his family, “His music will live forever in our hearts.”
In addition to his musical talents, Matthew wrote over twenty-five beautiful poems reflecting his compassion for others and his great love for his family. Several of Matthew’s poems have been published in “Letters of the Soul” (2002) and “The Best Poems and Poets of 2007.” His poetic works were honored in his selection as a semi-finalist in the International Open Poetry Contest of 2002. After returning from his mission in Germany, he attended North Central Texas College which helped to stimulate a lifelong interest in poetry.
Our beloved son supported himself by working in health care, landscaping and delivery service. He had a special love for older folks and helped his father recover from some major medical problems. His work ethic was commendable. His former employers said they appreciated his pleasant smile, good humor and dedication to his work. Matthew enjoyed volunteer work with young people, serving as a teacher, counselor and coach. He embraced high standards for staying in shape and participated in community sports. Matthew is profoundly missed by his family and friends. We are confident that he will find peace and comfort in the loving arms of his Savior.