In Loving Memory of Matthew Alan “Matt” Foster
January 9, 1962 – July 28, 2025
It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Matthew Alan “Matt” Foster, 63, of Granite City, Illinois. Matt departed this life peacefully at 9:13 p.m. on Monday, July 28, 2025, at Memorial Hospital in Belleville, Illinois, surrounded by those who loved him most.
Born on January 9, 1962, in Granite City, Matt was the cherished son of John Patrick and Kathleen A. (Perry) Foster, who survive. A lifelong resident of Granite City, Matt’s roots in the community ran deep, and he carried an unshakable pride in his hometown. His upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic, a deep sense of loyalty, and an abiding love for family and friends.
Matt spent his career as a committed and skilled laborer, dedicating his talents and energy to several local employers over the decades. He began his working life at Carter Lumber in Granite City, where he quickly earned a reputation for being dependable, hardworking, and always willing to lend a hand. He later brought those same qualities to Great Central Lumber in Alton, where he built strong friendships with colleagues and continued to develop his craftsmanship. Most recently, Matt was employed with the Metro East Sanitary District, where he took great pride in contributing to the vital operations that helped keep his community running smoothly. His coworkers remember him not only for his diligence and reliability but also for his wit, generous spirit, and willingness to show up for others in times of need.
Outside of work, Matt was a man of simple joys and heartfelt passions. He had an appreciation for the outdoors, loved tinkering in his garage, and often found peace in the quiet moments spent with nature. Whether it was grilling in the backyard, watching classic westerns, or enjoying a cold drink with lifelong friends, Matt lived with an authenticity and warmth that drew people to him. He was a man who valued connection—never in a hurry, always ready to listen, to help, to share a story, or to laugh.
To know Matt was to know loyalty. He was the kind of man who showed up—for birthdays, for tough times, for just a friendly visit. He had an undeniable presence—steady, grounded, and real. Those who knew him best admired his quiet strength, his fierce love for family, and the unassuming way he made others feel seen and cared for.
Matt’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be dearly missed not only by his parents, John and Kathleen, but also by a wide circle of extended family, friends, and coworkers who were touched by his kindness, his integrity, and his ever-present sense of humor.
As we grieve his loss, we also celebrate his life—one marked by humble service, genuine friendship, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. In the days ahead, may his memory continue to inspire us to live with the same quiet strength, steady compassion, and honest heart that Matt showed each day of his life.
A private family memorial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations in Matt’s memory to a local charity of your choice, particularly those supporting laborers, community services, or environmental preservation—causes Matt held close to his heart.
Rest in peace, Matt. Your life mattered, your presence blessed us, and your memory will remain a part of us always.
Leave a Reply