Matthew Allen Gerdes, 56, passed away peacefully at home on December 18th, 2025, surrounded by his family following a brief illness.

Services will be held on Friday, January 2nd at St. Matthews Lutheran Church in Monticello, IA, with visitation at 10 A.M. and funeral services starting at 11 A.M. A private burial will be held at Wayne Zion Cemetery. Pastor David Raemisch will officiate the services.

Matt was born on January 13th, 1969, in Monticello, IA to Merle Gerdes and Judy Daniel. Despite not having children of his own, he found joy in his many nieces and nephews.

Although Matt worked many jobs throughout his life he found a passion for cooking at a young age. This passion led him to become the general manager of IHop in Cedar Rapids, IA. For the past several years Matt was a chef at The Gardens where he was able to find a sense of fulfillment in cooking for the residents and seeing people enjoy his meals.

The only thing stronger than Matt's love for cooking was his love for his basenjis, Zen and Axel. Matt was involved in showing and competing with his basenjis. He competed with Axel in AKC conformation and lure, Fast Cat, and ASFA lure where they won many awards. Matt was involved in Basenji Club of America and was a lure coursing operator.

Matt is survived by his parents Merle (Nancy) Gerdes and Judy (David) Daniel. His siblings Renee Gerdes, Robin Bickel, Wes Gerdes, Shane Yarrington and Sonya Johnson. Matt was also the uncle to 19 nieces and nephews.

Matt was preceded in death by his grandparents Bob and Celestia Gerdes and Don and Betty Ellison. His aunts Mary Arnold, Marlene Dusanek, Sue Ellison, and his uncle Dean Ellison.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Animal Welfare Friends of Monticello or Cedar Rapids Kennel Association.

Please use the Guestbook to share your thoughts, memories, and condolences with Matt's family.