Matthew Leuthold
BILLINGS - In the early hours of Wednesday, March 15th, heaven got a little taller. Our son, brother, uncle and gentle giant passed away unexpectedly at his home in Billings, MT. Matt Leuthold was a New Years baby born on January 1st, 1963 in Billings, MT. Matt was a graduate of Billings West High School ('81) and Rocky Mountain College ('85). Big Matt was recognized and well-known for his height (6'11" tall). However, Matt's true attributes were his over-sized kindness and empathy for those in need. Matt took care of the people he loved. He never married or had children – but all nephews and nieces were the target of his non-parental enthusiasm. Kool-Aid and Sharkzilla movies were the favorite when Uncle Matt came to babysit. Generally, it was a 2-3 day period before the kids were unwound from the experience. Matt was a caretaker of friends, neighbors, family, and pets. He bestowed his kindness and wisdom upon anybody willing to accept it and listen. He was well-versed in just about everything. If he didn't have a general understanding of the topic – he would the next time you saw him. His appetite for information was as large as he was. He was constantly learning. He had a mischievous sense of humor and a laugh equal to his size. Matt worked together with his dad most of his life. He was a farmer/rancher for many years at the Leuthold Family ranch in Molt, Montana. When his dad decided to get into the hot cereal business, he traded in his work-gloves for a keen sense of how to run a cereal packaging machine at Cream of the West. Ultimately, Matt endured some health issues in his later years which limited the amount of time he spent working. Fortunately, his health issues didn't take away his sharp wit, humor, or willingness to help family members and friends. His huge heart and friendly demeanor lasted until the end. Matt is survived by his parents, John H (Bud) & Joanne Leuthold, sister Darcy McClenahan (John) and their children, Sam, Desi, Jeremiah, Robert and Sadie; brother Tim Leuthold (Jane) and their children, Sam, Calvin, and Jack. Matt was a large beacon of light in our family. We will miss him greatly.
A celebration of his life will be held March 29th at the First Presbyterian Church at 11:00 am with a reception following. Burial will be held later in the Spring.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
David Zimdars
April 15, 2023
It is with deep sadness that I learned of the passing of my great friend, Matt Leuthold. Matt and shared an interest in Star Fleet Battles. Matt, Rick Seter and I attended the Origins Gaming conventions for the national championships in `86 (Los Angeles), `87 (Baltimore) and `88 (Milwaukee) before I moved away from Billings. I also have fond memories of fishing on the Stillwater and Yellowstone rivers. And a few dodgy nights at the local dive bar "Grandmas". Matt and I kept in touch for many years-despite our living across the country. Goodbye my friend.
"Doc" Hoklin
March 28, 2023
The love Matt had for his mom and dad is something that can never be taken away.
I know Bud included Matt in nearly everything he was involved in, whether that be farming or hot-cereal marketing. Matt once found a fossilized dinosaur vertebrae on the family farm. I became the recipient of that bone because of my professional specialty! I will cherish it forever! Thank you for sharing that with me.
Matt will always be with you. Know that we´re thinking of you folks during this time.
DON PETERSON
March 27, 2023
I sure enjoyed watching Matt play basketball at West. He was the "center" of attention while playing! Joanne and I had many basketball conversations while having lunch at Arrowhead School. Sorry for your loss.
Jan Brumwell
March 26, 2023
I went to grade school with Matt and then graduated with him. He was always so sweet and kind. I´m so sorry for the family as I´m sure he will be missed deeply.
Steve Colberg
March 26, 2023
I enjoyed Matt's sense of humor and spirit while playing hoops with him in high school. So sorry to see this. Wishing the Leuthold family peace and serenity during this time of loss.
Margie LaFontaine
March 26, 2023
I am so so sorry to read this. All my love and prayers go out to all the Leutholds. One of my favorite familes. Wish I could be there at the service but I'm praying for you all!
Vicky Glancy
March 26, 2023
So very sorry for your loss
Harvey McIntyre
March 26, 2023
Bud and Joanne: My sincere condolences to you, Darcy and Tim on the passing of Matt. Of course, almost all of my memories of Matt center on him as a youngster when you lived in Indianapolis. God Bless y'all.
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