Our Story - Starts with the Vision of Jerry Mathwig
Born in Fairmont, MN, Jerry Mathwig proved to be a skilled entrepreneur with an intense work ethic. Jerry came from humble beginnings and faced hardships growing up. After serving in the U.S. Army and working in construction, Jerry, with the support of his wife Karen, founded Metro Sales Inc. (MSI) out of his home in 1969. Initially, the company sold paper and toner in just Minnesota and western Wisconsin, but Jerry’s vision and determination drove dramatic growth.
Over time, MSI expanded and became a prominent, independently-owned provider of office imaging resources nation-wide. Fulfilling his vision, Jerry eventually made the generous decision to sell ownership of MSI to the company’s employees, rather than to another corporation or investment group. Respected by his employees and appreciated by his business colleagues and friends, Jerry downplayed his success; never forgetting his humble roots.
For decades, Jerry and Karen Mathwig contributed generously to causes ranging from homelessness to conservation, often focused on healthcare and healthcare support. As the Mathwig family business expanded, so did its touchpoints. Jerry was always looking for ways to give back to the communities that contributed to his success, regularly seeking employee input to make impactful donations.
Beginning with individual gifts, many of them anonymous, the couple shared their commitment to philanthropy and community investments with their children over the years. The couple envisioned a charitable trust or foundation to advance their belief that every life has equal value, and that their philanthropic resources should be used to increase positive outcomes for both people and the planet. Rooted in the legacy of Jerry and Karen Mathwig, the Mathwig Family Charitable Trust today is a testament to the life-long generosity of the Mathwigs.
The Heart of the Trust – Karen Mathwig’s Living Legacy
The Mathwig Family Charitable Trust is built on the values and example of Karen Mathwig – a woman whose compassion, strength, and generosity continue to guide our family and the work we do today.
Karen was one of Metro Sales’ earliest employees, stepping in wherever the company needed her most. While her husband, Jerry, founded the business, Karen built its heart, fostering a culture rooted in kindness, loyalty, and care for employees and their families. She was the quiet force who cleared obstacles, offered encouragement, and reminded everyone that success begins with people.
From the beginning of Jerry’s new business venture, Karen was the glue. She had the ability to spring into action and fill unexpected voids. Once, a manager suddenly resigned from a newly acquired company. Karen, never one to waver, stepped in to lead. For seven years, she managed that business through challenging times, keeping it alive with her determination, patience, and deep sense of responsibility.
Beyond business, Karen’s generosity touched countless lives. She helped friends and family complete college degrees, offered support during hard times, and opened her home to anyone in need of a place to stay. Her empathy and selflessness were unmatched – lessons she passed on to her children, grandchildren, and those around her.
Throughout her life, Karen was an active mentor and advisor, coaching the Trust’s executors and ensuring that its work reflected her lifelong belief that every life has equal value. The spirit of giving that she shared with so many throughout her life will continue to shape the mission and daily work of The Mathwig Family Charitable Trust.
”We have been so fortunate in our lives, and we wanted to give back in some way. There is so much need in this world, and the Trust enables us to support our communities in perpetuity. We hope it will attract other like-minded donors to join us in making a difference today and for generations.”
– Karen Mathwig