Matthew M. Notice

Matthew Michael Ternes, son of Philip and Pam Barnett Ternes, was born in Dexter, Missouri on September 30, 1984, and died on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri at the age of 40, following a lengthy, but valiant battle with kidney disease. Matt was a lifetime Dexter Bearcat, graduating from Dexter High School in 2003. He graduated from Missouri State University in 2007 and went to work for his family-owned corporation, Heartland Food Management, where he served as Director of Operations until the time of his death. Matt is survived by his parents and was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, Ralph and Rose Mary Barnett and Jacob and Frieda Ternes. He was a resident of Dexter and served the community in a number of capacities. He was a lifetime member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and was a faithful member of the local Father Slay Knights of Columbus. Matt also proudly served as President of the Chamber of Commerce and continually supported the local community on various levels. Along with family and business associates, Matt leaves behind a multitude of friends, most of with whom he formed lifetime relationships as far back as elementary school. Throughout his high school and adult years, he was affectionately referred to by friends as "Chief," a name he carried until his death, and friends agree there will never be another to bear that title. All agreed he wore it well. Matt was a fierce and undying fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, the LA Rams and the University of Kansas Jayhawks, attending games whenever time and his health would allow. Locally, Matt was an avid supporter of the local 18 Fore Life Charity and never saw a golf tee he didn't like. Friends made certain he was on the course, at least putting when his failing health prohibited an 18-hole day. Matt always had a smile and a word of encouragement for others, with seldom a complaint, despite years of his own health challenges. His encouragement, his humor, his drive, determination and positive influence will be sorely missed. Visitation will be held at Mathis Funeral Home in Dexter on Thursday, June 19, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with a Rosary recitation beginning at 7:00 p.m. A funeral Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dexter on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Dexter Cemetery. Memorials for Matt Ternes may be sent to the 18 Fore Life Charity, c/o Scott Kruse, 705 Laurie Circle, Dexter, MO 63841, http://www.18forelife.com.