Matthew Ian Brookshier

Matthew Ian Brookshier, age 49, passed away September 14, 2017, in Tumwater, Washington. Born in Monett, Missouri, February 19, 1968, Matt graduated from Newton High School in 1986. Following graduation, he entered the U.S. Army and served three years in Germany. When he returned to the States, he enrolled in Emporia State University, Emporia, Kansas, where he attended until called to serve his country again—this time in the Desert Storm campaign in Iraq. Following completion of that tour of duty, Matt enrolled at Kansas University, Lawrence, Kansas, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Geology, awarded August 1, 1995. Through his working years, Matt was employed as a geologist with the Bureau of Land Management, Washington Department of Natural Resources, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Matt leaves behind a saddened family: mother, Jo Brookshier of Phoenix; father and stepmother, Ken and Jan Brookshier of Hawaii; sister, Jody, and brother-in-law, Randy Bafus, Kylie, and Keagan of Phoenix; brother, Michael, and sister-in-law, Ilana Brookshier, Ava and Ethan of Narberth, Pennsylvania. His family also included Uncle Glenn and Aunt Jane Gibson of Denver and Uncle Ted Gibson of Taylor, Arizona, as well as many relatives on the Gibson and Brookshier sides. Matt was a man of deep and caring feelings. He loved his family and spending time with as many family members as possible. Cooking was one of his joys, and he was good at it! Probably the highlight of each year for Matt was the Christmas turkey throw-down—where he and Jody competed to roast the best turkey—as rated in various categories by all present. His friendships were deep and lasting. Being out in nature amid the beauty of Washington State was important to him. Dooley, his blue heeler of fourteen years, brought joy and smiles to this tender man. Matt will be so deeply missed by all his family and friends. Please leave memories of Matt or condolences for his family in the Guestbook below.