Matthew C. Stilz

April 10, 1957 - January 22, 2015

Matthew C. Stilz, 57 of Dry Ridge left his earthly life January 22nd to be with his heavenly host. Beloved son, proud father, devoted husband and trusted friend were all phrases ascribable to Matt, but the one of which he was most proud was devout Christian. Surviving are his mother Helen, of DeMossville; wife Lori Ann Stilz; son Stephen Stilz (Tonya); daughter Jamie Healy (Matt) and grandchildren Cadence and Ryan. Brothers Martin (Susan) and George and sister Claudia Sizemore (Devell). Lori's children, Zachary Bohrer, Jamie Brockman (Todd) along with Isaac, Gabby and Oliver will miss "Bap". Elsa will miss Matt more than we can know. Matt will be reunited with his father, John Stilz, who preceded him in death. Matthew worked for Itron for thirty years where he was tooling manager. His work engaged him in international travel, but, no matter how exotic or romantic the locale the job took him, he was always ready to return home to the Kentucky heritage of which he was immensely proud. That part of his heart that wasn't filled with Jesus, was reserved for family. As a father the pride and love he felt for his children was evident. His grandchildren were looked on with a favor that is only found in grandfathers who are pleased with the fruits of their labor. As a son, the respect for his parents was immense. As a husband his devotion was boundless. Matt had a passion for buying, remodeling and renovating houses. An avid carpenter he was not intimidated by any project, large or small. Had he lived the home he and Lori shared would have likely ended on the auction block while he looked for the next project on which to practice his avocation that occupied so much of his spare time. His innovation was not limited to houses, in his younger days he bought junk cars, restored engines, transmissions and anything else that needed fixing. There was no shortage of potential buyers awaiting the finished product. Matt will be missed by many, but those who loved him know he is where he belongs. And regardless of how difficult it was to say goodbye, they know his physical suffering is ended which provides them with some small measure of solace. He touched their lives in ways that will be relived for many years to come any time there is an occasion for a family gathering. Funeral services for Matthew Stilz will be conducted 1:00 pm Saturday, January 24 in the chapel of the Eckler-McDaniel Funeral Home, Dry Ridge, KY. with Rev. John Russell officiating. Visitation will be Saturday from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm. A reception will be held at the home of Matt and Lori following the service. If desired, Memorial Contributions are suggested to World Vision through the funeral home.