Matthew Jesse Engle

Matthew Jesse Engle, 12/16/2002 – 03/21/2026

Matthew Jesse Engle, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on March 21, 2026 at the young age of 23 years. Matthew was a beautiful soul who was deeply loved. More than he probably ever realized, he was a wonderful support in so many ways to his mother, Joan Engle, his life partner of seven years, Lacey Cherry, and his sister, Terra Jaster. They will be eternally grateful for all that he brought to their lives.

Matthew graduated from Highland Park High School. He was in the process of obtaining an online education for a career in Information Technology and had just applied to Washburn Tech. He had been employed at Midwest Maintenance for the last three years.

Matthew loved animals and found much enjoyment in their company. He even convinced his Mom to allow him to keep two goats in the backyard. He enjoyed playing video games although sometimes those who lived with him wished his enjoyment was not quite so loud. 😊 He enjoyed developing his culinary skills to prepare healthy meals, traveling, being out in nature, and playing with his nieces and nephew. He loved to joke around and had a mischievous side.

Matthew had many dreams and plans for the future and was taking steps to realize them. Some of the things he talked about in addition to his career plans were someday hiking the Appalachian Trail, going on a safari to Africa and starting a family with his partner.

More than anything Matthew accomplished in his short time, he will be remembered for the essence of who he was which those who were closest to him experienced. He was strong, thoughtful, kind and loving. He was beautiful inside and out. He had many challenges in his brief life, one of which was being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of nine. No matter what life threw at him, he was ultimately determined to be the best version of himself.

He was still developing his spiritual beliefs, but he was very clear about what he didn’t believe in. He didn’t believe in using religion to divide people from one another, to condemn or judge others, to speak one way and act another. His quiet, consistent and caring actions and the imprint they left on others are the testament to his inner goodness. He lived without fanfare but made a deep and positive impact on his loved ones. He made the world a better place for them. His light will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his mother, Joan Engle, his life partner, Lacey Cherry, his twin brother, Joe Engle, his sisters, Illya Engle, India Engle, Terra Jaster, Marley Nestler and Annabelle Engle.

A private good-bye will be held prior to cremation and a gathering to share memories and celebrate his life will be announced at a later date

Those who wish to may make donations the Helping Hands Humane Society in his memory.

To leave a message for his family online, please utilize the guestbook below.