Matthew David "Matt" McKinnon's Obituary
Matthew David “Matt” McKinnon, age 49, passed away on Wednesday, August 6, 2025. He was born on January 8, 1976, in Muskegon to Daniel and Scharlett (Kirksey) McKinnon and was a lifelong resident of the area.
On November 7, 2003, Matt married the love of his life, Carrie L. Smith, in Muskegon. He dedicated 31 years to his family’s business, GH Printing, where he began working at age 18 and most recently served as President. His leadership and passion helped shape the company’s success, and he treasured the employees who became like family over the years.
Matt was a man of deep faith, growing up attending Central Assembly of God and later, as an adult, regularly attending Harvest Church. He also served as a past board member for Love INC and was a fierce advocate and generous supporter of many notable charities.
Above all, Matt was a devoted family man. He loved his wife, Carrie, with all his heart and stood as her steadfast partner through every season of life. He was a constant presence in his children’s lives, faithfully cheering them on at every play, dance recital, choir performance, sporting event or any pursuit they embraced. His love for Cameron and Taylor was evident not only in how he provided for them, but in his unwavering presence, encouragement, and pride in all they accomplished. Known for his generous spirit, Matt was the one everyone turned to in times of need, the dependable, faithful “go-to” for a helping hand, sound advice, a listening ear, or simply a steady presence. Whether for family, friends, or even someone he had just met, Matt could always be counted on. He treasured traveling with his family, especially on their many trips to Florida, and he deeply valued the friendships, many lifelong—that enriched his journey. To those who knew him best, he was simply “Matty,” a name spoken with affection that reflected the warmth and love he poured into the lives of others.
A true “foodie,” Matt enjoyed competitive BBQs and cooking for loved ones. He often dreamed of opening his own restaurant, which he would have called “Fat Matt’s.” He also enjoyed playing pickleball, riding his motorcycle, and savoring life’s adventures.
Matt will be remembered for his warmth, reliability, and unwavering devotion as a husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. He leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and kindness that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Carrie McKinnon; two children, Cameron and Taylor McKinnon; his parents, Dan and Scharlett McKinnon; five brothers, Shannon McKinnon, Brent (Gina) McKinnon, Daniel (Lisa) McKinnon, Luke (Elizabeth) McKinnon, and John (Rachel) McKinnon; one sister, Katherine (Trent) Dyer; his in-laws, Carl and Bobby Smith; brother-in-law, Jeff (Maria) Smith; numerous nieces and nephews: Shannon (Cady), Hunter (Jessica), Connor (Cearra), Noah, Colton, Jaxon, Jackson, Jordan, Mercedes (Raymond), Daniel, Kenneth, Angel, Ryan, Brynn, Nolan, Natalie, Maddilynn, Ethan, Maverick, and Isabel, Vanessa, Pia and great-nieces and great-nephews, Irie, Evlie, Oliver, Lucy, Emma, Stella, Jayce, Zion, Judah, Kinsley, Cooper and Huckstyn.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ken and Bobbi McKinnon, and Oliver and Dollie Kirksey.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Central Assembly of God, 896 Home Street, Muskegon, MI 49442, with Pastor Jeff Haddon and Pastor John McKinnon officiating. Visitation will be from 5–8 PM on Wednesday at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444, and one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Muskegon Rescue Mission (www.muskegonmission.org). You may sign the online guestbook at https://www.sytsemafh.com
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