Matthew John Whitlatch, age 66, of Moline, MI, passed away Oct. 5, 2026. 

Matthew was born Dec. 28, 1959, to Lewis and Betty Whitlatch.Growing up, he loved working at the 131 Dragway and being outdoors. Minnie Pond held a special place in his heart. Like his parents (Navy) before him, his son Patrick(USMC) and daughter, Danielle (Navy), after him, Matt was a proud Veteran, where in the Navy he got his Shellback AND a Captain’s Mast for giving himself an extra night in Pattaya Beach, Thailand. 

Matthew enjoyed skydiving, with one memorable jump landing under his reserve while his kids watched. His kids will always remember camping and sliding down the dam with him. He was proud to work alongside his son, Matt Jr., at Universal Spiral Air and knew everyone in HVAC in GR. Matt loved baking with his daughter Jes, breakfasts with his dad and sisters, and going to North Beach with his wife. 

Matthew is survived by his dad, Lewis Sr.; his wife of 43 years, Dawn; and his children, Matt Jr. (Naomi), Sandy, Patrick (Jenny), Jessica, and Danielle; Dogs Otis and Blu,12 grandkids; two great-grandkids; and his siblings, Valerie, Lew Jr., Darlene, Andi and Dinkers. He and his legendary hugs will be missed by a lifetime of friends, family, and all those who called him “Uncle Matt.” He’s reunited with his loving mother, Betty; grandson Jack; son-in-law Eric; parents-in-law Pat and Zelda; nephew Austin; brother-in-law Kelly; and a pack of dogs led by Melvin.

 A celebration of life will be held at the American Legion D.W.Cassard Post 208. 133 44th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49548 on Oct 18 from 1-5 with Military honors at 2 p.m.