Final Salute

Matthew Lee Bettes Matt wasn’t done with life. Born on April 19, 1987, his journey ended too soon on December 7, 2024. In his 37 years, Matt grew from being a brother to one into a brother to hundreds as a proud member of the Navy Seabees. A graduate of Oshkosh North High School, Matt enlisted in the Navy and embarked on a career as a Seabee. There, he honed his skills as a carpenter and found his true calling in the camaraderie of his military family. Entering the Seabees as an eager 18-year-old, Matt’s journey of growth and perseverance led him to become a well-respected Chief Petty Officer. His achievements were supported by the mentorship of Senior Chief Sam Beauchamp (retired), Master Chief Holly Robinson, and countless others who guided him along the way. After earning his Chief Petty Officer rank, Matt became a mentor himself, embodying the principle that true leadership is measured by how you uplift and support others. During his Navy career, Matt served on five deployments in the Middle East, forming lasting bonds with fellow service members from across the nation. The relationships he built, both as a brother and a leader, were the cornerstone of his life. Matt is survived by his parents, William Lee Bettes and Patti Peotter-Bettes; his sister, Morgan Bettes Angell (Ryan Angell); his beloved niece, Louise Jane Angell; his aunt, Janeen (James) Keen; his uncles, Thomas (Susan) Peotter and John Bettes; numerous cousins; and his loyal dog and best friend, Stella. He is preceded in death by his cherished grandparents, Bud and Mary Peotter, June and Delbert Tiemann, and his first “wing-dog,” Sage. Matt passed doing what he loved—spending a glorious day outdoors, duck hunting on the water in the Iowa countryside. Earlier that day, he had checked in with his parents and was teasing his best friend over the phone about missing out on all the ducks. A Funeral Service for Matthew will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024 at 12:15 PM at the Holly Funeral Home, 526 S. Main Street Waupaca, WI 54981. A Visitation for Matthew will be held from 11:00 AM until the time of service and remarks of Matthews life at 12:15 at the Funeral Home. A Graveside Committal Service will be held at the Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery N2665 County Road QQ Waupaca, WI 54981 at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: The Animal Rescue League of Iowa, 5452 NE 22nd St., Des Moines, IA 50313 “It’s hard to forget someone who gave you so much to remember.”