Michael P. "Mike" Matthews

Michael "Mike" P. Matthews, age 63, of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.
A memorial service will be held at 10:00 am on Monday, January 5, 2026, at Ritchay Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9:00 am until the time of service. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Wisconsin Rapids, WI.
Mike was born on April 13, 1962, in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, to Lawrence and Colette (Pazurek) Matthews. He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1981.
Mike worked at a variety of jobs throughout his life and was skilled at many things. He worked in food service for many years, including as a cook at The Mead Inn and at Grandma's USA Cafe in Wisconsin Rapids. He also worked in the meat department of his local IGA. He loved cooking for his household, and served as caterer for several family occasions. He pursued multiple creative hobbies, including wood carving, carpentry, drawing, and repairing just about anything. He enjoyed outdoor activities including golfing, fishing, and gardening.
Mike was proud to be a licensed Ham Radio Operator (Amateur Extra, KC9LHB) for many years, a passion that reflected his technical skill and love of connecting with and helping others. He checked in daily with many ham radio groups, established friendships with radio operators around the world, and even made contact with the International Space Station on his radio. He became interested in radio and electronics in his youth after listening to shortwave radio, and taught himself Morse code.
Mike was an organ and tissue donor, a final act of generosity that will continue to impact others.
Mike is survived by his parents, Lawrence and Colette Matthews; by siblings Jennifer (McComb), Andrew, Margaret (Peters), Anne (Shyjan), and Mary (Townsend); many aunts and uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews; and by his companion of over 34 years, Lynne Kedrowski.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Michael's name to the Wisconsin Rapids Food Pantry, the South Wood County Humane Society, or other local community organizations.