Matthew Craig Kessels' Obituary
Matthew Craig Kessels, 52, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2026, at his home in West Valley City, Utah. Born in Middleton, New York, on April 22, 1974, Matt grew up moving between various cities and states along the East Coast, attending Carson Long Military Academy from 1990 to 1993.
Matt went on to serve his country in the United States Navy from 1997 to 2000 as an airplane mechanic. During a brief period living in Detroit, Michigan, he picked up a passion for hockey and became a lifelong fan of the Detroit Red Wings—a loyalty he carried proudly for the rest of his life. It was also during this chapter of his life that he welcomed his daughter, Maura Boyle, born on March 14, 1999, with his partner Erin Boyle.
In 2002, Matt moved to Utah, where he met his wife, Jennifer. They were married in 2003, building a loving home together. Matt warmly stepped into the role of stepdad to Jennifer’s two sons, Skylor and Kaleb Rowley, and together they welcomed their son, Connor, in October 2009.
Above all else, Matt was a kind, devoted father who was happiest when his family was all together. He never hesitated to share the life lessons he learned growing up, always ready with quiet wisdom, a warm laugh, or a helping hand. His sons Connor, Skylor, and Kaleb best described him as funny, resilient, hardworking, and—true to form—occasionally just a little too stubborn for his own good.
Socially, Matt had an effortless gift for connecting with people. He could fit in with any crowd and had a genuine way of making everyone he interacted with feel special, seen, and important. He loved building relationships and proudly served as the "glue" that held the neighborhood together. A true handyman, Matt took pride in doing things himself, owning just about every tool imaginable, and being the kind of neighbor you could always rely on when you needed a hand. In his free time, he enjoyed playing golf, traveling, and looking forward to yearly vacations in Mexico.
Matt is survived by his loving wife, Jennifer; his daughter, Maura; his son, Connor; his step-sons, Skylor and Kaleb; and his brother, Brian. He was preceded in death by his mother, Linda Youngs, and his adoptive mother, Anne Marie Hendrika (Mika) Kessels.
Service & Memorial Details
Memorial Service: A celebration of Matt’s life will be held on August 7, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM in an open house style at his home: 6116 W Bluff Ridge Drive, West Valley City, UT.
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