Matthew Hutti

Matthew Hutti, age 44, of Charleston, IL passed away peacefully at 6:39 a.m. on Saturday, December 30th, 2023 surrounded by family.  Born on June 26th, 1979, he became a joy in the lives of his parents, Stephen L. and Deborah L. Greiner Hutti.  He is survived by his parents, his siblings - Timothy P. Hutti, Patrick S. Hutti (Colleen Hollestelle), and Heather H. Kelly (Sean Kelly), his nephews and niece - Max D. Hutti, Cosette K. Hutti, Aidan Matthew Hutti (namesake) and Nolan P. Kelly, God-parents - Rebecca Hill and Mark Hutti, God-daughter - Tess Isabelle Hill, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. 

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents - Richard and Isabelle Greiner, paternal grandparents - Lawrence and Mary Jane Hutti, cousin - Danny Greiner and uncle - David Hutti.

With a strong belief in education, Matthew proudly graduated from Charleston High School in 1998, completed his baccalaureate at Fontbonne University in St. Louis in 2002, and earned his Masters of Science in Sports Management from Eastern Illinois University in 2007.

As an individual with a disability, Matthew forged new paths and enjoyed connecting with the community in several ways.  Immediately following his undergraduate days, he spent time as a cast member at Disney World in Florida.  He returned to Charleston and entered the world of education as a substitute teacher - regaling all those who would listen about the glorious nature of the city’s high school students.  Hoping to give as much back to his community as he possibly could, he ran for public office and was elected to the Charleston City Council.  His greatest hope was to ensure a community filled with positive opportunities for all its residents.  He proudly served nearly three terms and was a gracious servant to the community.  Lake Charleston, the Linder City Sports Complex, and the upcoming Douglas Drive improvement were constant topics of his support.

Also as an individual with a disability, Matthew accepted every adventure in life possible.  From dog-sledding to parasailing, kayaking to snow skiing, zip-lining to riding in a hot air balloon, motorcycle riding to horseback riding, Matthew led the way on all that was possible. 

Important to Matthew was figuring out ways to give back to those who gave so much to him.  He knew how to listen.  He understood the importance of relationships.  His generosity was astounding, though he did so anonymously and did not want accolades or praise.  Most importantly, he never complained.  Not once.  Not ever.  About anything.  Or anyone.  His kind heart was the beacon of light that created the greatest impact for his family and friends.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 5, 2024 at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 921 Madison Ave., Charleston, IL with Father Robert Samson and Father Braden Maher officiating. Burial will follow in Roselawn Cemetery, Charleston, IL. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, January 4, 2024 at Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Dr., Charleston, IL.

Memorial donations may be made in his name to Camp New Hope, PO Box 764, Mattoon, IL 61938.  As a youngster, Matthew enjoyed the time he spent there as an MDA camper and would hope that others could continue to benefit from Camp New Hope.

To view the full obituary, send a condolence message, light a candle, or post photos, please visit www.adamsfuneralchapel.com. Adams Funeral Chapel is in charge of all arrangements.

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