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Matthew James Kemmerer
Matthew James Kemmerer
Cedar Rapids
Matthew James Kemmerer, 42, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, after a lifelong battle with CGD.
Matthew was born on March 25, 1983, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the son of Pam (Kemmerer) Sabin and Tim Kemmerer. He grew up alongside his brother, Ryan, and from an early age learned the meaning of strength and perseverance.
He attended College Community Prairie Schools and graduated in 2001. On October 4, 2008, Matt was united in marriage to the love of his life, Mandy Shebetka. Together they were blessed with their son, Sutton Gene Kemmerer, born in October 2020. Matt cherished time spent cooking, watching sports, and being with his family.
A lifelong sports fan, Matt coached baseball in Fairfax and was well known for his love of statistics. He especially enjoyed Chicago Cubs baseball, Kansas City Chiefs football, and Hawkeye sports. Watching games together as a family was one of his greatest joys.
Matt believed deeply in giving back. The Make-A-Wish Foundation and Stead Family Children’s Hospital were especially close to his heart. He worked at Target in Cedar Rapids for nearly 20 years, where he formed many lasting friendships. Matt was the kind of person everyone was glad to know.
Matt is survived by his wife, Mandy Kemmerer; son, Sutton Kemmerer; parents, Pam (Kemmerer) Sabin and Tim Kemmerer; brother, Ryan Kemmerer; grandfather, Gene Kemmerer; many extended family members and in-laws Steve and Lori Shebetka and family.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Gene (Norma Jean) Sabin and Kate Kemmerer.
A Celebration of Life will be held in January, with details to be announced at a later date.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.dawswonfuneral.com. Cards of condolences mat be directed to Dawson Funeral Services, Attn: Matthew Kemmerer Family, PO Box 258, Wyoming, IA 52362. A memorial fund has been set up for Matt’s son, Sutton, to help with future college and life expenses.
Contributions may be made at Fairfax State Bank.
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