Matthew Rutkowski Obituary Chesterland, OH: Matthew Peter Rutkowski, 46, died on December 27, 2024. He was born on August 28, 1978, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, to Peter and Louise Rutkowski. He spent his childhood in South Russell, Ohio, and attended Chagrin Falls schools. Matthew attended Miami University, John Carroll University, and Cleveland State University. For the past eight years, he has resided with his family in Gates Mills, Ohio, his beloved “forever home.”
Matthew is survived by his wife, Lyndy, and their two daughters, Jade and Rose; his mother, Louise, of South Russell; his sister, Jennifer; his brothers, Bob (Beth), John (Tina), and Dan (Megan); and many nieces and nephews. His father, Peter, passed away before him.
A dedicated educator, Matthew served as a Guidance Counselor at Twinsburg High School, where his unwavering commitment profoundly impacted countless students. Before this role, he worked at ArcTech Academy in South Euclid/Lyndhurst. A memorial service honoring Matthew’s life will take place on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at 3:00 pm in the Twinsburg High School auditorium (10084 Ravenna Rd, Twinsburg, OH 44087).
Matthew was deeply devoted to his family, community, and students. He actively volunteered at his daughter’s elementary school and played a leadership role in the Gates Mills Art Show. He was also an avid outdoorsman, finding joy in hiking, fishing, and spending time with his family along the Chagrin River. His passion for nature extended to planting a wildflower meadow on his property and caring for indoor and outdoor plants.
In 2001, Matthew met Lyndy while working as an outdoor education teacher in Brinkhaven, Ohio. Their unique connection led to nearly 20 years of marriage, and they had planned to celebrate their anniversary in Big Sur, California, staying in a yurt at Treebones—a place that held special memories for them.
A talented handyman and tinkerer, Matthew took pride in maintaining his property and often referred to his family as “frontiersmen” for their close connection to nature. He was passionate about world politics, human rights, music, and cheering for the Cleveland Browns. A prolific reader, he also ran his own business, Unity Ceremonies, and was recognized as the top wedding officiant in Northeast Ohio.
Matthew cherished family traditions, including splitting wood for bonfires and the wood-burning stove that kept his home warm throughout winter. Evenings by the fire with his family were moments of reflection and connection for him.
Above all, Matthew’s love language was acts of service, and he poured his heart into caring for his wife and daughters. A devoted husband, father, son, and brother, he was a one-of-a-kind individual whose legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him. May his memory live on in the hearts of all who loved him, offering comfort in knowing he watches over us with enduring love.
Matthew Rutkowski Obituary and Funeral Arrangements will be Released by the Family
