Matthew Kevin Powers

With much sorrow, we announce the passing of Matthew (Matt) Kevin Powers on July 19, 2026, at the age of 33. Matt lost his battle with bipolar disorder and left behind family and countless friends who loved him and will miss him greatly.

Although he had struggled with addiction for years, at the time of his death, he had been enjoying sobriety for several months and engaging in life, spending time with friends and family, boating, running, and working.

Matt was born in Sioux Falls, SD, on March 17, 1993. He is survived by his parents, Kevin and Jean Powers of Wabasha; and his sister, Kristina Powers, of Wabasha. Matt was adopted by Kevin and Jean as an infant, completing their family of four. He is also survived by his biological sister, Jezelle Ryan, of Minneapolis; and his biological half-brother, Adam Ryan, of Wabasha; aunts, uncles, and cousins; and his many wonderful friends. He is preceded in death by his biological mother, Kathleen Ryan; grandparents Carl Sundquist, Rhoda Sundquist, Loretta Powers, and Gerald Powers; and uncle Michael Powers.

Matt was known for his piano playing in his teenaged years, especially his ragtime tunes and duets with his sister. He enjoyed duck, goose, and turkey hunting with his dad and being outdoors. Matt said he felt at peace in his boat on the river. He enjoyed taking pictures and recently dreamed of having his own photography business.

His love of music continued throughout his life, as he was usually seen with his earbuds in his ears, listening to songs. It was very important for Matt to stay in touch with people he considered friends, and he had an amazing ability to do that with all the people he knew. His smile and enthusiasm could light up a room.

He was quick to learn anything of interest to him and was known for his excellent work ethic. He has worked in the automotive area spraying truck bed liners, landscaping/installing sprinkler systems, and he liked the social interaction of the restaurant business and was gifted with amazing customer service skills.

Matt’s kindness to strangers was on display recently at night in the streets of St. Paul. A man yelled for help from an electric wheelchair that had run out of charge, but several people passed by and ignored him. Matt offered help to this man, figured out how to get the wheelchair going, and escorted him a long way to the homeless shelter where the man lived.

During his years of struggling with addiction, Matt developed a love of running, which helped him during recovery. He was invited to join a running group - Mile in My Shoes - in the Twin Cities. Matt found an incredible level of friendship, support, and understanding with these wonderful people, and it made a huge, positive change in his life.

Matt recently made a lantern at an event on Lake Phalen, and he wrote the following on the lantern before it was launched on the lake:

“God,

Teach me, guide me, heal me. Help me continue to find love, meaning, and belonging. Let me serve and grow! Matt”

We long to see Matt again in Heaven someday.

Matt will have a private family burial service and later an event with Mile in My Shoes in his honor, which will be announced. The family requests that all memorials go to Mile in My Shoes. Please link to their website for information: https://www.mileinmyshoes.mn/donate

Online Condolences may be placed at mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com