Matthew Edward Wages

Matt was, through and through, a Cleveland sports fan — the kind who stuck with his teams through the long droughts and the heartbreaks, because that's what real loyalty looks like. Come fall Saturdays, it was Ohio State, Sundays, it was Cleveland Browns, no exceptions, no excuses. That kind of devotion says something about a person: he didn't give up on the people and things he loved, win or lose.

He was the guy you called when something needed fixing. Handy in that quiet, capable way — the kind of skill that comes from paying attention and figuring things out, not from a manual. He could look at a problem most people would pay someone else to solve and just take care of it himself.

He was street smart, too — sharp in a way that can't be taught in a classroom. He read people and situations well, and he knew how to take care of himself and the people around him.

But more than any of that, he loved his family. His mother, his siblings, his nephews in particular — they were the center of it for him. The kind of love that shows up in small, steady ways: being there, showing up, looking out for the people he was closest to.

He'll be remembered for all of it — the loyalty to his teams, the hands that could fix almost anything, the street smarts that got him through, and most of all, the love he had for his family.

Those who knew Matt will remember a man of quiet presence and reserved nature, whose kindness was shown more in steady actions than in words. He carried himself with a gentle decency, offering care and consideration in the simple, dependable ways that matter most.

Matthew worked at HD Supply for 15 years and then joined his dear friend Jimmy working for Cousins Gutters.

Matthew is survived by his mother Sharon Batsch; his siblings: Jenna (Erich) Holmes and Justin Wages; nephews Jayden and Julian Holmes; aunts and uncles: John (Maria) Rhoads, Dave (Valerie) Rhoads, and Mike (Cathy) Wages; as well as numerous cousins and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his father Edward Wages; step-father Kelly Batsch; uncle Jim Rhoads; and grandparents John and Betty Rhoads, and Lewis and Beverly Wages.

Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life is planned for Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 1pm- 4pm at the Kent Elks Lodge, 2265 Erie St. Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.wood-kortright-borkoski.com

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Matt's memory to Miraculous Hope Ministries (Cash App- $MIRHOPE1, Zelle- 440-317-1275, or Checks to Miraculous Hope Ministries address 23600 Emery Road, Warrensville Hts., OH 44128)