Peter Matthew "Matt" Nolan

Peter "Matt" Matthew Nolan, 56, passed away into the loving arms of Jesus Christ on December 28, 2025, in Appleton, Wisconsin, after a courageous three-and-a-half-year battle with esophageal cancer. His passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Born on August 27, 1969, in Evanston, Illinois, Matt grew up surrounded by family and community. Matt's early years were spent in Glencoe, IL near Lake Michigan-a place that remained dear to him throughout his life. He began his education at Central Elementary School and later attended New Trier High School. He went on to earn his undergraduate degree from the University of Iowa and later pursued his MBA at Cardinal Stritch University.

Matt built a successful career as a commercial banker with BMO. Known for his integrity and dedication to clients and colleagues alike, he brought both professionalism and warmth to every interaction.

Above all else, Matt was the beloved husband of Trina Nolan for 25 years. Together they built a home filled with laughter and love, raising three children who were the center of Matt's world: Hughes, Maggie and Gabriel. Matt fought valiantly through every stage of his illness with one goal in mind-to remain present for the people he loved most. His unwavering commitment to them was evident in every moment shared together.

He was the cherished son of Peter Nolan and the late Karen Nolan. He is also remembered with great love by his father- and mother-in-law Jim and Sandy Hughes. Matt shared close bonds with his siblings: Christine (Marvin) Mazzucchelli, Mary Nolan, Cara (Todd) Lanscioni, Patrick (Heidi) Nolan, and Stephen (Jennifer) Nolan. He was also part of an extended family through marriage that included Vicky (Rod) Roovers and Jim (Amy) Hughes. Matt held a special place in his heart for all his aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews and carried the memory of his great-niece Sophie McClenahan with tenderness.

A devout Catholic throughout his life, Matt found strength in faith during both joyful times and moments of hardship. His spiritual devotion provided comfort not only to himself but also to those around him.

Matt had a gift for bringing joy into everyday life. Whether strumming one of his beloved guitars or delivering a perfectly timed dad joke-often to the playful embarrassment of his kids-he had an uncanny ability to make people laugh. He never met a stranger he couldn't strike up a conversation with, often turning brief encounters into memorable exchanges filled with humor and heart. A lifelong fan of the Chicago Bears, he cheered them on with unwavering loyalty through every season. He loved playing hockey from a young age into adulthood, often sharing stories about skating at Watts in Glencoe and playing club hockey at the University of Iowa.

His legacy is one of love, laughter, resilience, and deep connection. Matt's presence lit up every room he entered; he will be remembered for the way he made others feel seen, heard, and valued.

May Matthew Nolan's memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know him-and may the echoes of his laughter continue to warm our hearts for years to come. A Funeral Mass will be held on January 3, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St Joseph Catholic Church, 404 W Lawrence Street, Appleton with Brother Ray Stadmeyer officiating. Friends may visit from 9:00 AM until the time of service.

Peter "Matt" Matthew Nolan, age 56, of Appleton, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on December 28, 2025. A memorial service for Matt will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at SAINT JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH, 404 W Lawrence Street, Appleton with Brother Ray Stadmeyer officiating. Friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service