Surrounded by family, Michael Paul Matchulat was called to heaven from his Lorane home early on the morning of Nov. 11, 2021, following a 6 1/2 year battle with cancer. He was 37 years old.
Michael was born in Lorane, Ore. where he grew up on the family farm with his parents, Paul, and Trish Matchulat, and his four older sisters. Family and community shaped who Michael became.
Michael attended Crow High School as a gifted musician and a multi-sport athlete. He graduated from CHS with honors in 2002, before going on to earn a B.S. from the University of Oregon in 2006.
Michael pursued a number of jobs before finding a home in law enforcement. He served with the Lane County Sheriff’s Office until his cancer diagnosis forced him into early retirement.
In 2015, Michael married the love of his life, Amber Dawn Doughty. They built a life and home surrounded by natural beauty. They allowed each other to reach their potential and encouraged others to do the same.
He was a peace officer, a farmer, a hunter, and a welder. He was a horseman, a builder, and a mechanic. He had a deep appreciation for fine wine, cooking, sunsets, mushroom foraging, scuba diving, fishing and most of all, people. He was an artist, an author, a musician, and a marksman.
Michael was known for his eclectic style. He thrived on eccentricity and valued honesty. He kept you guessing. One never knew if he would show up wearing a three-piece suit or daisy duke cutoffs. On one occasion, he drove up in his Caddy with a new calf in the backseat.
Michael was a member of the Lorane Christian Church and his faith remained strong to the end. He loved life, his family, his friends, and his community. He was a beloved son, husband, brother, uncle, and true friend to many.
Michael was preceded in death by his father, Paul. He is remembered by his mother Trish, his wife Amber and his sisters Laura, Michelle, Melinda and Amber and his brothers (in law and in spirit) Ryan, Jeff, James, Justin, and Duncan. His nephew and seven nieces will be telling his stories to their children.
Matchy’s Kick A$$ Send Off will be held at 2 p.m. Nov. 20 at Kester Ranch 80772 Hawley Creek Road, Cottage Grove. In Lieu of flowers, please consider a potted perennial plant for a planned memorial garden. Arrangements in care of Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel, Cottage Grove.
