Matthew Kirk Dexter

In Loving Memory of Matthew Kirk Dexter
Matthew Kirk Dexter, a devoted father, loyal brother, and hard-working man with a lifelong fascination for exotic animals, passed away on December 18, 2025, at Angela Hospice in Livonia, Michigan. He was 57 years old.
Matthew was born on November 16, 1968, in Royal Oak, Michigan, to his parents, James and Catherine Dexter. He grew up in the Troy and Clawson area and attended Bloomfield Hills Lahser High School. From an early age, Matthew was known for his quiet determination, strong work ethic, and deep curiosity about the natural world.
For more than 30 years, Matthew dedicated himself to a career in woodworking, including his own business MKD Finish Carpentry. He was reliable, an incredible craftsman, and committed.
Outside of work, Matthew found joy and purpose in his passions. He was the proud founder of the Motor City Hogs reptile group and had a remarkable love for reptiles and exotic animals. What began as an interest grew into a true calling. Matthew raised and sold Western hognose snakes, caring for them with patience, knowledge, and respect. Those who shared this interest with him recognized his expertise and the genuine care he showed for every animal he raised. His connection to these creatures reflected his gentle nature and his appreciation for the unique and often misunderstood.
Above all else, Matthew was a devoted father. His daughter, Mia, was the center of his world. He loved her deeply and took great pride in her, always wanting the best for her future. His role as her father was one he cherished and carried with quiet strength and unwavering love.
Matthew is survived by his beloved daughter, Mia Dexter; his brothers, James Lee (Kim Waples) Dexter Jr., Daniel Edward (Gregory Beckett) Dexter, and Cary David Dexter. He had four nephews, Dillon Dexter, Sean Waples-Dexter, Brandon Dexter, Alec Waples-Dexter and Caitlyn Sievewright.. He is also survived by his step-mother Joane Dexter, and his former wife, Fran Dexter. He is also remembered fondly by extended family, friends, coworkers, and fellow enthusiasts who knew him as a man of integrity, kindness, and humility.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Catherine Dexter.
Matthew's life was defined not by grand gestures, but by consistency, loyalty, and devotion-to his family, his work, and the things he loved. His memory will live on through his daughter, his brothers, and all those who were fortunate enough to know his steady presence and quiet strength.
A gathering of family and friends will take place on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A Celebration of Matthew's Life will be held at 7:00 p.m., providing a special time for family and friends to share memories and stories in his honor. The gathering will be held at Gramer Funeral Home, 705 N. Main Street (Livernois, between 14 and 15 Mile Roads), Clawson, Michigan 48017.
In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that you consider donating to Angela Hospice in honor of the amazing care they provided him in his final days at https://angelahospice.org/donate/ and/or to the non-profit The Creature Conservancy at https://thecreatureconservancy.org/donate and Saving Scales Reptile Rescue at https://www.savingscalesmi.org/support. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Matthew, please visit our floral store.