Matthew Carlson

Matthew Michael Carlson, 46, of Cherry Valley, passed away on Sunday, May 18, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born April 11, 1979, in Rockford, the son of Michael A. Carlson and Sandra D. (Johnson) Swanson. Graduated from Jefferson High School, Class of 1997. Matt worked for Miller Engineering Company for over 25 years as an HVAC Service Technician.
Matt was known for his strong work ethic, wealth of knowledge, willingness to help others, and compassionate generosity and thoughtfulness. Matt loved Fox Body Mustangs and Harley Motorcycles. He had an unwavering and strong love for his fiancé, Hollister.
Matt was adventurous and loved to go fast. He would gather a group of friends to go watch the races at the Rockford Speedway and Byron Drag Strip. Matt also raced his 1992 Black Fox Body Mustang at the Byron Drag Strip in his younger years and still owns "his baby". He would always find the new, freshly-paved roads to do burnouts on; the latest ones being the Perryville and Mulford bridges. He always left his mark.
Matt's grandfather, Arvid, taught Matt how to be "mechanically inclined" and to take pride in fixing and working on his own things.
Matt was a friend to all and beloved by many. Matt was an RC racing and crawling enthusiast, loved his dogs Eleanor and Rapty, and going to concerts. Most of all, Matt loved the life that he was building with Hollister, as they were recently upgrading the house with the help of their good friend, Darryl.
Survived by his fiancé and love of his life, Hollister Koch; father, Michael Carlson; mother, Sandra Swanson; brother, Christopher A. (Heidi Pommerening) Carlson; niece, Adaila; uncles and aunts; cousins; life-long friends; his MECO family; RC family, all of whom are too many to name. He is predeceased by both maternal and paternal grandparents, his aunt Christine, uncle Maynard, and aunt Barbarba.
Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, May 30, at Fred C. Olson Chapel, 1001 Second Ave., Rockford. Visitation will be from 11:00 to 12:45 p.m. prior to the service. Burial in Arlington Memorial Park. The family welcomes casual attire.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations be made to the family. To share a memory or condolence visit olsonfh.com.