Matthew J. Alderson

Matthew J. Alderson, 47, of Palestine, IL, passed away unexpectedly on April 23, 2023, in Carlisle, IN. Born in Sullivan, IN, on August 24, 1975, he touched the lives of countless souls, making friends wherever he went. For years, Matt was the kind of person who could walk up and talk to anybody. It's no wonder people would recognize him from far and wide, including places like Pigeon Forge and Nashville - he simply left an impression nobody could forget. His memory will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind. His parents, Rick & Cathy (Hodge) Alderson (Palestine, IL), and his children, Karleigh Alderson (Fishers, IN), Trent Alderson & his fiancée, Allison Herrick (Terre Haute, IN), and Emilee Alderson (Sylvester, GA), all hold dear the memories they shared with him. Matt was also a loving grandfather to Samuel Ruberry and will be missed by his sister & brother-in-law, Jamie & Cory McDaniel (Palestine, IL) and their family; by his uncles & aunts, Joe Alderson (Palestine, IL), Roger & Janet Hodge (Palestine, IL), Sherry & Scott Creed (Palestine, IL), Ed & Diane Hodge (Vincennes, IN), Allen & Angie Hodge (Robinson, IL), and Ashley & Mark Toliver (AR), and their families; along with a host of other extended family members. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Earl & Sandra Hodge and Jack & Carolyn Alderson, as well as his aunt, Debra Lankston, and cousin, Shawn Lankston.

Shortly after graduating from Palestine High School in 1993, Matt embarked on a journey of service by joining the National Guard. He went through basic training at Fort Leonard Wood and continued serving with the Lawrenceville Guard. After a brief stint delivering for Pepsi, Matt found a calling as an over-the-road truck driver for U.S. Express, driving throughout the continental United States and bringing joy to his children by coming home with toys from all over. Matt's love for the open road was undeniable, as was his pride in his handsome red truck. However, he eventually transitioned to working as a heavy equipment operator at the Black Beauty Coalmine, a position he held until he developed Behçet's Disease, which pushed him out of the workforce. From that point on, Matt dedicated his life to being a loving and supportive stay-at-home dad. This position afforded him the opportunity not only to spend more time with his kids but to make the most of what life had to offer by enjoying his many hobbies and interests.

Matt's interests were eclectic and varied. In high school, he developed a passion for the rodeo that led him to ride bulls for a time, an experience he shared with his friends, Spud and Clint. For a number of years, they would ride in open rodeos, creating memories filled with excitement and laughter. Though he wasn't much of a bull rider, Matt was an exceptional gardener. His incredible green thumb allowed him to grow anything - from HUGE pumpkins and sunflowers to green beans and tomatoes. A fantastic cook, he would often integrate his produce into some of his family's favorite dishes, like pot roasts, tacos, and his famous chili.

Those who knew him best could speak to the man's passion for the outdoors. In addition to time spent in his garden, he spent countless hours mushroom and ginseng hunting and fishing. In fact, when his family moved down to Carterville, IL, he and his kids spent most of their free time at Crab Orchard Lake with a rod and reel in hand, making many heart-warming memories in the process. They will also fondly remember many car rides simply enjoying their dad enjoying some of his favorite music. Let's just say he gave them a show! He also gave his children the gift of correction by way of creative discipline. For example, if they were caught fighting, Karleigh and Trent were often forced to walk around the block for hours, either holding hands or wearing the same oversized t-shirt. If they complained about being bored, he would have them pick up cigarette butts or cut grass with scissors. Needless to say, they weren't bored that often! These unconventional methods taught them important lessons while molding them into tougher, more resilient people.

And who was Matt Alderson, if not resilient? For nearly a decade, he faced numerous mental health challenges with courage and determination, acknowledging the bad but focusing on the good. With a personality that was equal parts courageous and ornery, he taught those around him to "cowboy up, rub some dirt on it, and be tough." So, in memory of Matt, let us live out the strong and courageous spirit he embodied with similar kindness and generosity. His legacy reminds us that through love, laughter, and the support of family and friends, we can fight through any adversity to make the world a more positive, vibrant place.

A time of visitation will be held from 1:00-3:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 29th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine. Services will immediately follow and be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. During the service, family and friends will be given the opportunity to share stories and speak about this dear man's life. For those unable to attend, a live stream of the service will be available at www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream .

Cremation will follow services. Memorials may be made to his memorial fund, with checks made payable to "Goodwine Funeral Homes".