Matthew Evan Nestleroad, age 52, of Imperial, Missouri, formally of Martinsville, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 6:35 PM, on February 21, 2017, at St. Anthony’s Hospital in St. Louis. He was born on August 2, 1964, in Robinson, Illinois, the loving son of Jim and Sue (Evans) Nestleroad. His father preceded him in death, March 2003.

Matt is survived by his loving wife, Diane (Staub) who he married on October 6, 1990, and one son Evan. Also surviving is his mother, two brothers, James D. of Marshall, Illinois and John (Malinda) of Vandalia, Illinois. Nephews Collin Nestleroad, Sean Murphy, Daniel Murphy, Patrick Murphy, Nathan Staub, Isaac Staub and Jason Barbor. Nieces Sydnie, Nestleroad, Erin Murphy-McHenry, Anna Murphy and Stephany Barbor, several cousins and a host of friends both young and old, near and far.

Matt loved his family and friends more than life itself, and had a heart of gold. He had amazing social skills and never met a stranger. He could strike up a conversation with anyone, and loved telling a story. He was always the life of any party. Matt loved spending time with Evan’s friends, and there was hardly a day without some of the ‘neighborhood kids’ being at the house. Matt would never turn down ‘shooting hoops’, going to the creek or sledding with them on snowy days.

Matt was a big sports fan, always supporting the hometown teams…..Cardinals, Blues and Rams. He and his family spent many an evening at Busch Stadium, cheering on the Redbirds. He was always the one to call if you needed a ticket, and was always willing to provide them to his friends, never taking a penny. He was an avid fan of college basketball, and loyal to the Hoosiers of Indiana University. He wore the cream and
crimson proudly, along with all of his family.

Matt had unique respect for the elderly and often visited residents in the nursing home. He spent time with military veterans and had several friends having served in the armed services. He loved hearing their life stories and could set and listen to them for hours, asking questions and shedding tears.

Matt also loved music, and his range in genres and artists was quite extensive. His two favorites were Frank Sinatra and Mick Jaeger. He could sing the lyrics to any one of "Ol’ Blue Eyes'" hits and then immediately change gears and sing any Rolling Stones song written. He was so fortunate to have seen both live, in concert.

Matt will be sadly missed, but never forgotten by those that knew him. His stories will live on, and he will as well. He was an organ donor.

At Matt’s request, cremation was chosen, and no formal visitation will be held. However, there will be a celebration of Matt’s life. Friends are invited to join the family in his home town of Martinsville, Illinois, for this celebration. It will be held at the Martinsville Community Center, 122 W. Cumberland St., Martinsville, IL on Saturday, March 4, from 2:00 PM to 5 PM.

Memorial cards for Matt’s favorite charity will be available at the celebration.

To view the full obituary, send a condolence message, light a candle or post photos, visit www.markwellfuneralhome.com. Greenwell Funeral Home of Martinsville, IL assisted the family with the local arrangements.