Submit a PhotoWe are heartbroken to announce the passing of Matthew L. Dobrenz, 58, who died on July 16, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona.
Matthew was born on April 29, 1967, in Tucson, Arizona. He graduated from Rincon High School and soon after met his soulmate, Kathleen, in the spring of 1986. From that moment, they embarked on their lifelong journey together. Matt quickly discovered his talent for connecting with people, achieving significant success in sales, which ultimately led to a 39-year career in the petroleum industry and many lasting personal relationships.
Matthew and Kathleen began their unwavering bond in Tucson, Arizona, and later moved to Phoenix, where they welcomed their first child, Jacob. Eventually, they relocated to Kathleen’s home state of Rhode Island, settling in Cumberland, where their second son, Braden, was born. During their time in Cumberland, they created countless memories and friendships along the way.. Ultimately, they returned to sunny Arizona, most recently settling in Gilbert.
Family meant everything to Matthew, and he was committed to ensuring that his boys had the tools they needed to succeed in life. He consistently encouraged them to work hard in school, excel in sports, and build strong friendships, cheering them on in all their endeavors.
We will remember Matthew for his dedication to family and friends, his ability to make others laugh, and his selfless nature. He found great joy in giving to those around him. He was a devoted husband, a supportive father, and a loyal friend.
Matthew had a diverse range of interests, including fishing, boating, biking, traveling, and investing in real estate. In 2009, he became a co-owner of the Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, RI. After becoming empty nesters, he and Kathy began learning to dance together. He had a deep love for animals, especially horses and dogs.
Matt is survived by his wife, Kathleen; his children, Jacob and Braden; and his brothers and sisters-in-law, Patrick and Kathleen Egan, Susanne Egan, Michael and Karin Egan, and James and Allison Egan. His nieces, Kelsey Egan and Adrianna Egan, and nephews Sean and Colin Egan, and Joseph Egan. He is preceded in death by his mother, Ida L. Dobrenz, and his father, Albert K. Dobrenz as well as his mother-in-law, Mary K. Egan, and father-in-law, Henry R. Egan.
A celebration of Matthew’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Gilbert Memorial Park, 2100 E. Queen Creek Rd., Gilbert, AZ 85297, with a reception immediately following the ceremony.
Matthew’s life was a quiet example of integrity, generosity, and unconditional love. He will be deeply missed.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of Matthew’s favorite charities: St. Mary’s Food Bank , St. Jude Children’s Hospital , or ASPCA .
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Kathy, Jacob and Braden, I am so sorry about the sudden passing of Matt. I hold very fond memories from years ago of him and our conversations at family functions. He will be sorely missed, but not forgotten. Prayers for peace for you all.
Kathy, Jacob and Braden,
We were heartbroken to hear about Matt’s passing. Please accept our deepest condolences. He was a wonderful person and will be missed by so many. We can’t imagine the pain you’re going through, but we want you to know that you’re in our thoughts and prayers. If there is anything we can do to support you during this time, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Matt- RIP and dance with the angels, until we meet again…
With Sympathy,
Allan & Debby Richardson
My condolences . So very sorry for the loss of Matt. May all your memories comfort you at this time
I’m so sorry to hear of Matt’s passing. I’ve known you guys for a long time and he will be missed greatly. Please know you have been and will always be in my thoughts and prayers.
Our deepest condolences! Matt was always a symbol of strength regardless of what was happening in his life and he always had a positive outlook! We were always happy to see Matt! All our thoughts and prayers to the family!
All of us at Lab One, Inc.
It is with deepest sorrow that we acknowledge the loss of Matt. We had the pleasure of working with him for many years and truly appreciated not only his professionalism but also the way he handled both the challenges and blessings life brought his way.
Though we knew him through work, we always enjoyed our conversations and interactions with him—he was a genuinely kind and steady presence. He will be missed.
My deepest sympathies and condolences to you Kathy and your boys… Matt was a great friend and boss to me during my time at Lynch Arena. I am so sorry for your loss.
Much love…..
Joe Rez
Kathy, Braden and Jake – We’re so stunned and sad to hear about Matt. Truly heartbreaking. Please know we’re all holding you in our hearts as you go through this loss.
I’m remembering Matt’s humor and practicality helped us all get through those Cub Scout days. I can still clearly see his bemused expression across cafeteria in St Joan’s at yet another game of dodgeball. I’m thankful for one scouting for food year where Matt drove me, Henry, and Braden and his car had heated seats. Matt and I were nice and warm while the boys ran about the neighborhoods in the cold.
His genuine interest, care and concern for Braden’s friends made your house a favorite place for Henry.
I’m so glad we had the good fortune of knowing him and will miss him.
With love – Megan, Bill, Henry and Owen Dennen
Kathy, I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of Matt. My deepest condolences to you and your boy’s during the very difficult.time. I hope you find comfort in the memories and love that you had for each other.
Sincerely, Rachel
Kathy, Jake, and Braden, What an incredible loss. I loved seeing the pictures of you and Matt dancing the last time we met, Kathy. Matt was such a wonderful husband and dad. Please know my family and I are thinking of you and holding you in our hearts at this incredible difficult time.
Kathy, I was so saddened to hear about Matt. He was a great and always threw interesting challenges my way because “he knew I could do it.” Matt was great that way .
Mine and my family’s deepest condolences to you, Jake and Braden.
Kathy, I am so sorry for your loss, Matt was a great person. I had the pleasure of working with him at JWK. My wife and I are sending our deepest sympathy.