There will be a Celebration of Life will held on Tuesday June 16, 2026 at 3pm at Des Moines Vineyard Church, 2332 Euclid Ave. Des Moines, IA.
Matthew was born on January 14, 1982, in Sherman, Texas, to Charles “Steve” Steven Handley and Dorinda Lee (Arnold) Handley. He was united in marriage to Jennifer Marie Eirikson on May 11, 2014, in Sedona, Arizona. Their union was blessed with two children, Landon and Rylee.
Matt was a devoted husband and loving father who treasured his role as a stay-at-home dad. He also shared his passions and creativity through his two YouTube channels, River City and Matocaster.
Matt enjoyed trout fishing, cheering on the Miami Dolphins, attending and watching NASCAR races, and restoring cars and motorcycles. If it had wheels, he loved bringing it back to life and making it look and run like new. He had a deep passion for music, whether building guitars, playing them, or performing with bands. Creating and sharing music brought him great joy.
Above all, Matt cherished the time he spent with his family. He, Jenny, and the children loved traveling together, making countless memories and enjoying adventures that they would carry with them for years to come.
Matt is survived by his loving wife, Jenny; two children, Landon and Rylee; parents, Steve and Dorinda Handley; little brother, Dustin Handley; Mother-in-law and father-in-law, Judy and Eric Eirikson; brother-in-law, Chris (Kendall) Eirikson; niece, Gabby Eirikson; nephews, Jake Eirikson, and Koby and Jensen Evans, and several aunts, uncles and cousins. He is also survived by his band mates and a host of special friends. Preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Charles and Faye Handley and maternal grandparents, Gene and Jeanne Arnold.
In lieu of flowers, memorials will be directed to the family in loving
memory of Matt.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be left at www.ankenyfuneralhome.com for the Handley family.
