Matthew "Matt" VanWatermulen

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Matthew James VanWatermulen on May 31, 2026, at the age of 43. Born on July 17, 1982, in Virginia, Minnesota, to loving parents James and Myrna (Hanson) VanWatermulen, Matt spent his early years in Eveleth before relocating to Battle Lake, where he graduated from high school. Following his passion for the environment, Matt earned a Master’s degree in Environmental Health & Safety from the University of Minnesota Duluth. On September 24, 2011, he married the love of his life, Victoria Steadman, in a beautiful ceremony at Craguns Resort in Brainerd. Their union was blessed with two wonderful sons, Hudson and Logan, who were the light of his life. Matt had an unyielding love for the outdoors, which he enthusiastically shared with his sons. Whether it was fishing and hunting with Hudson or enjoying the simple pleasure of pushing Logan on the swing, being in nature was Matt's sanctuary. His passions extended to camping, where he often found peace in sleeping in his hammock. He was also an avid gardener, delighting in growing fresh produce, which he transformed into delicious homemade salsa, spaghetti sauce, jams, and other culinary creations. Matt enjoyed woodworking, brewing his own beer and traveling to different breweries.

He was preceded in death by his grandpa, Arlo Hanson; grandparents: Garrett & Veronica VanWatermulen; aunt, Susan Olson; uncles: Mark & Lon Hanson. Matt is survived by his devoted wife, Victoria, and his cherished sons, Hudson and Logan; Mom & Dad: Myrna & James VanWatermulen; sisters: Megan (AJ) Lunde, Carly (Nate) Larson; grandma, LeVonne Hanson, mother-in-law & father-in-law: Ramona & Marc Steadman; sister-in-law, Michelle (Adam) Cordes; Andrew Steadman (Sara Garcia); nieces & nephews: Lillie, Cooper, Arlo, Hazel, baby Larson, Brynna and Jackson, along with a host of friends and family who will miss him dearly. His warmth, kindness, and zest for life touched everyone he met. A visitation will be held on Friday, June 12, 2026, 4:00 – 7:00 PM at the Anderson Funeral Home with a Time of Sharing at 4:00 PM. Visitation will continue on Saturday, June 13, 2026, 10:00 – 11:00 AM at Eagle Lake Lutheran Church with a Funeral Service at 11:00 AM. As we mourn the loss of Matt, we also celebrate the beautiful memories he leaves behind and the profound impact he had on all our lives. He will forever remain in our hearts.

 In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to Dough 4 Joe or the charity of your choice.