Matthew J. Westhoff-Strode's Obituary
Matthew Jeffrey Westhoff-Strode of Girard, Kansas was born March 11, 2004, in Chanute, Kansas. His parents include his father, Jerome J.T. Strode, his mother, Jamie D. Westhoff, and his stepmother, Katrina A. Strode. Our goofy, fun-loving, and oh so beloved Matty was prematurely taken from us at the young age of 21 around 7:00am on Monday, June 23, 2025 due to a vehicular accident.
At an impressive height of 6’8”, Matthew is the perfect example of a gentle giant. Matty was a strong warrior in our battle reenactments and sparring sessions, but he was, and still is, very well known for his huge heart. He was always the first to volunteer himself if anyone needed any form of assistance, and was always one of the most empathetic in our group. Even in sparring he was careful to not harm anyone and would always be there for any person who happened to get fresh battle scars.
Matthew could never be described as a boring person. He was always one of the most animated people in any given room. His infectious and boisterous laughter could be heard from impressive distances. If Matty was anywhere nearby it would most certainly be known as he was never a soul that could be ignored. He had many hobbies that he loved to participate in with his friends and family. He loved to collect dice sets for the many D&D games that he would participate in (and might I say he has a very impressive collection of beautiful sets). He made it to state and nationals multiple times for his competitive archery tournaments. He loved the spear and knife throwing competitions that would be held at Boarzerk events, and he loved being with his people around a campfire surrounded by tents, music, storytelling, and joy.
Matthew graduated from Pittsburg High School in the class of 2022 and proceeded to take courses at Labette Community College. He was working as a custodian at the very high school he attended, and he spent much of his free time helping friends and family with both yard and house work.
Matthew is survived by his father, Jerome J.T. Strode, his mother, Jamie D. Westhoff, his stepmother, Katrina A. Strode, his fiancée, Emily D. Schneider, his siblings, Timothy J. Westhoff and Lacey “Monkee” M. Strode, his best friends, Corwin T. R. Hoy and Kiersten B. Deierling, as well as many cousins, friends, and family. He was preceded in death by many of his grandparents and great-grandparents.
Matthew spread such a great light in his life that that light will always shine. Matty, from the deepest depths of our hearts, we love you so dearly, and our love for you will never ever fade.
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