Matthew Paul Roten

Matthew “Matt” Paul Roten, 42, died tragically on Wednesday, January, 3, 2024. He left behind three beautiful children – Micah, Abby, and Dylan – all of whom he loved and adored. They were his greatest joy in life and his greatest passion. Ultimately, it was the pain of separation from them that he could no longer endure.

Matt’s life paints a remarkable picture of dedication and achievement. He faced everything in life head on and with an exceptional focus, determination, and commitment. His closest friends call him generous, thoughtful, and loyal. In the company of his friends and family, laughs were nearly guaranteed. He had his own unique sense of humor and, at times, even his own language, especially when with his loved ones, who miss him dearly. His smile stretched from ear to ear any time he was with his children, no matter what he was going through.

In the company of his peers and colleagues, Matt was always held in the highest regard for his work ethic, integrity, and dedication. He attained his pilot's license in 2004 and graduated two years later from Georgia State University with a Bachelor of Science in Urban Policy Studies (Concentration in Aviation and Transportation).

His commitment to the United States Marine Corps (Reserve), beginning in 2008 as an Air Frame and Hydraulic Systems Mechanic, showcased an allegiance to service to his community and country. Matt earned numerous accolades and certificates of distinction throughout his Marine Corps tenure, including recognition for superior performance, physical fitness, and scholastic excellence. He was an Honor Graduate of the H-1 Airframes Organization Level Maintenance Course at the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Marine Unit; was designated as having the highest scholastic average in Class 09345 of the Aviation Structural Mechanic Course; and received a Naval Air Technical Training Center Honor Certificate in recognition of superior performance, earning him the distinction of Honor Student in the Aviation Structural Mechanic Course. Matt was also awarded a Selected, Marine Corps Reserve Medal “First Award.” His progression through the ranks in the Marine Corps, from Corporal in 2011 to Sergeant in 2012, reflected his hard work and ability to lead.

In 2011, Matt earned his National EMS Certification as an EMT-Intermediate/85 and served
as a Clayton County Fire and Emergency Services Firefighter II, EMT-I, and Engineer/Pump Operator until 2016. During this time, he received his Smoke Diver certification and multiple Cardiac Life Saving awards, CARES awards, and Rescue awards, as well as Firefighter of the Year.

In addition to his three children, Micah, Abby and Dylan Roten, Matt leaves behind a loving family and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his brother, David Roten, Jr.

A Funeral Service for Matthew Roten will be held Monday, January 8, 2024, 11:00 A.M., at Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home, 1215 Access Road, in Covington. Friends are invited to visit with the family at the Funeral Home, an hour and a half prior to his service, from 9:30 A.M.  - 11:00 A.M. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Victory Heights Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering physical and mental resilience for veterans, military personnel, law enforcement, first responders, and the DOD and Intelligence community.

This obituary was prepared with love and affection by Matthew's family.

https://victoryheightsfoundation.org/mathew-paul/