Matthew Charles Booth

Matthew Charles Booth, a cherished son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on November 3, 2024, in his hometown of Ames, Iowa, at the age of 53. Born on December 6, 1970, in Ames, Matthew embodied a life devoted to faith, service, and community. A man of principle and commitment, his life was anchored in his deep Christian faith, a beacon that guided his actions and relationships.

Matthew is a graduate of Ames High School Class of 1989. Matthew's journey of service began with his enlistment in the United States Army from 1998 to 2002, followed by his dedication to the Army Reserves from 2004 to 2005. His valor and dedication were exemplified during his time as a veteran of the Iraq and Afghanistan War era. After completing his service, Matthew extended his commitment to peace and security as a military contractor with Raytheon Technologies from 2005 to 2012, working across regions including Iraq, Afghanistan, Japan, and Djibouti.

In addition to his service abroad, Matthew was deeply rooted in his community at home. A devout member of the Calvary Chapel of Ames, he regularly attended services and actively contributed to his church community. His compassion and loyalty extended to fellow veterans through his involvement with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the VA Hospital in Des Moines. Matthew's warm-hearted nature and engaging personality left a lasting impact on everyone he met, turning acquaintances into friends and ensuring that his kindness was his enduring legacy.

Many of Matthew's hobbies and interests centered on his love of the outdoors. He grew up fishing with his father and grandfather, and was especially fond of boating on the local rivers of central Iowa. He liked spotting bald eagles and other wildlife, and scouring the river valley landscape for interesting artifacts.

He also enjoyed road trips out west, visiting national parks and exploring the mountains. He had a special affinity for snowmobiling in the mountains, and considered it his favorite outdoors experience.

Matthew loved the family dog Ozzy and enjoyed taking him for long walks in nearby parks or endlessly throwing sticks in rivers and lakes for Ozzy to swim and fetch.

Matthew was also an avid fan of Iowa State athletics and his beloved Minnesota Vikings, and liked playing golf at new courses on family trips.

Matthew is survived by his mother, Marilyn Booth, of Ames, IA and his sister, Adria Booth-Tyler, of Des Moines, IA his brother, Zachary Booth, of Carlsbad, CA and nieces, Kaitlyn Tyler, Jacqueline Tyler, of Cedar Falls, IA, and nephew, Oliver Tyler, of Des Moines, IA all of whom mourn the loss of a profoundly loved family member. He was preceded in death by his father, Larry Booth, and grandparents, Larry Booth, Sr., Olive Peterson, and Emma Holtmeyer.

Matthew's life will be celebrated at a funeral service held at Stephens Memorial Chapel in Ames on Friday, November 15th at 12:00 pm, with a luncheon to follow. In this time of remembrance and sorrow, let us gather to honor a life characterized by selfless service, genuine faith, and unyielding love for both family and community.