Matthew James Oelking passed away peacefully at his mother’s home in Covington, LA on May 30, 2020 at the age of 45, after a courageous battle with cancer. Matthew was the loving parent, together with Michele Marie Oelking, of Adelaide Caroline Oelking of Boulder, CO, cherished son of Marie Celeste Bordelon Oelking of Covington, LA and beloved brother of Amos John Oelking III (Kendie) of The Woodlands, TX. He was preceded in death by his “Pops” (father), Amos John Oelking, Jr., with whom Matthew is now reunited in heaven. Matthew is also survived by his nephew and godson Tyler James Oelking; niece Brooke Elizabeth Oelking; godchildren Taylor Travers and Mitchell O’Shee; and several loving aunts, uncles and cousins. Matthew is further survived by his childhood “bestie” Jessica Brown Ulmer and her husband Kip Ulmer; devoted friends Johnny and Kara Travers, Scott and Danielle Meyer, Kenny Gowland, Clark Lozes and Gene Fabre; and numerous other loving friends that meant so much to Matthew and who did so much for Matthew in his final months. The frequent visits paid to Matthew during his illness by friends and family meant so much to Matthew and raised his spirits. Matthew graduated from Covington High School in 1992, and from Louisiana State University with a degree in economics in 1997; Matthew served as the goalkeeper for the LSU Men’s Soccer Club from 1992 to 1995. His vibrant, compassionate personality and generous spirit will be missed. Matthew was a friend to those in need, and a quester for knowledge, particularly with regards to his passions. In addition to soccer, Matthew’s passions included his daughter Adelaide, fly fishing and cooking. He was also an avid follower of the financial markets, and worked for several years in various roles in portfolio management/investment relations. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Grace Funeral Home in Covington, LA. A visitation will be held at Grace Funeral Home (450 Holy Trinity Drive) from 10am to Noon on Saturday, June 6th, followed by a Funeral Mass and a reception to which all are invited. Guests are welcome to wear a mask should they choose, but will not be required to do so. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Unbound Guatemala. An online guestbook is available at www.gracenorthshore.com.
