Matthew R. Gillen

Matthew (Matt) R. Gillen, born June 19, 1965, entered into eternal life, Monday evening, August 22, 2022. Son of Ann and Robert Gillen; brother of Mary (Gordon) Wilkins, Joan (Don) Klein, Kathy (Scott) Oster, Dave (Lorraine) Gillen, Steve, Patti (Mark) Valore and Joe (Nichole) Gillen; uncle and grand uncle to numerous nephews and nieces.  Matt is also survived by his former wife and close friend, Julie and close friend, Renee Alaska.  Matt was preceded in death by his mother, Ann and brother, Steve.

Matt graduated from the Most Blessed Sacrament elementary school, St. Francis de Sales High School and the University of Toledo.  He lived his working life in Madison (Nashville) Tennessee, where he was the lighting director for numerous entertainers; including Tammy Wynette, Trisha Yearwood, Miranda Lambert, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Backstreet Boys, Diamond Rio, Collin Raye, Randy Travis, Chonda Pierce, Trace Adkins, Little Big Town, Charlie Daniels, various Broadway shows in New York City, and most recently the Alabama singing group and Phil Vassar.

When he wasn’t traveling around the country for various concert performances, Matt loved fishing and enjoyed kayaking and woodworking.

The family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday, August 27th from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Assumption, Ohio, where a Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 a.m., with Fr. Michael Dandurand presiding.  Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Special thanks to Hospice of Northwest Ohio for their caring service.

Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 2649 US Highway 20, Swanton, OH 43558.
Arrangements entrusted to Weigel Funeral Home (419.644.3601).