Matthew Calab Jackson, aged 24, died unexpectedly on August 5, 2023. He is survived by his loving family, Michelle Jackson (mother); Derek Rath (father); Ryan Connell (half-brother), Billy Connell (half-brother); John Connell (stepfather); Wanda Jackson (maternal grandmother); Stephen and Debrah Rath (paternal grandparents); his uncles, Adam (Michelle) Rath, Matthew W. Jackson; and his aunt, Melissa (Jeff) Honea; and many cousins. He was preceded in death by William Jackson (maternal grandfather).

Matthew was born in Woodstock, IL on January 12, 1999, went to school in Belvidere and has lately been living in Harvard. Recently Matthew had been working with his Uncle Adam at McGrath Nissan in Elgin as an Auto Body Repair Technician and loved his job. Previously he had been working in construction in Michigan where he lived for several years. His best friend was his dog, Shiloh, who he deeply loved. They went everywhere together. Every day Shiloh would wait patiently (and sometimes impatiently) for him to come home from work so they could jump in the car and ride together.

Matthew loved to play football. He started playing at the age of 9. He played in Pop Warner league, high school and even played on a semi-pro league. Matthew loved to travel and went on lots of vacations with his grandparents when he was growing up. One of his favorite trips was with his dad to Alaska. He also went on several road trips with some of his friends. He loved to work with cars and spent many hours working with his Uncle Matt on various vehicles. Matthew was a very kind and loving person. He had a great smile that would light up a room. He was good at keeping in contact with his friends, texting, calling and visiting. He left a big impact on a lot of people. He was always there for his family and friends and was loved deeply by so many people.

"Even though you are gone, you will never be forgotten", Love Dad

Matthew's visitation will be Sunday, August 13, 2023 between the hours of 11am and 2pm at Anderson Funeral Home. Located at 218 W. Hurlbut Ave., Belvidere, IL 61008. It will be a time of open sharing throughout the visitation for those that would like to share a remembrance with an open-mic. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be given to Noah's Ark Animal Sanctuary, Inc. 111 N 1st Street, Rockford, IL 61107 (noahsarkanimals.org).