Matthew S. Bekkedal

Matthew S Bekkedal, age 54, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on April 27th, 2026 at ThedaCare in Neenah, Wisconsin. Matthew was born to Steven and Nancy (Peterson) Bekkedal on May 8th, 1971. He was raised in Viroqua, Wisconsin and learned the value of hard work at an early age while navigating life on a dairy farm. Matthew was a 1989 graduate of Viroqua High School. He received a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education – Athletic Training from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and Masters in Education – Exercise Science degree from Bowling Green State University.

Early in his career, Matthew held athletic training positions with the New Orleans Saints and Chicago White Sox followed by a strength and conditioning coach role with the Wright State University Raiders in Dayton, Ohio. He later returned to Wisconsin and impacted many lives in his 17 years at Divine Savior Hospital in Portage. In this role, Matthew provided athletic training coverage for local schools and was an integral part of the rehabilitation team in the hospital. Matthew finished his career as athletic trainer for the Omro school district where he established meaningful relationships with student-athletes, families, and co-workers.

Matthew was a baseball fan and enjoyed many trips to County Stadium, Miller Park, and American Family Stadium to watch his beloved Brewers. His love for grilling, both at tailgates and at home was inspired by his grandfather Eugene “Bud” Bekkedal. Matthew also had a green thumb and was known for planting many trees around his home, growing tomatoes, and growing various indoor plants. Travel was always near the top of Matthew’s to-do list, and he found great joy in big trips around the United States in addition to “up north” get-aways. He found enjoyment in documenting trips and everyday life through pictures and videos.

Matthew is survived by his father Steven (Julie) Bekkedal and sister Angella (Spencer) Fox. He also leaves behind his loving children, Lukas and Kara Bekkedal. He was a proud uncle to Dalton Dobbs, and Abigale and Zac Fruendt. He will also be missed by many aunts and uncles including Laura (Chuck) Lancrete, Laureen “Rena” Schaeffer, Mary Settles-Kroeplin, Steven (Mary Ellen) Peterson, Stewart (Marla) Peterson, Brian (Cindy) Bekkedal, Dan (Julie) Peterson, and Amy (Mike) Simonis whom Matthew loved like a sister. Matthew is also survived by family members Justin and Amanda Running as well as many cousins with whom he had close relationships.

Matthew was preceded in death by his mother Nancy in 2024, grandparents “Bud” and Frances Bekkedal, grandparents Emmett and Alma Peterson, uncles Dale and Arden Peterson, aunt Martha “Marti” Zitzner, and aunt Jewel Bekkedal.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed towards the Vernon Health Foundation and Viroqua Legion Baseball.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May, 16th, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church with Pastor Michele Engh officiating. A visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until time of service.

Roth Family Cremation Center and Funeral Services is serving the family. 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.