Matti "Matt" Liiste

Matti "Matt" Liiste obituary, Shoreview, MN

Matti "Matt" Liiste

Matti "Matt" Liiste Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on May 17, 2025.
Matti "Matt" Liiste was born in Finland on February 28, 1944, and passed away unexpectedly on April 9, 2025, at 81. Matt's life was defined by boundless love, heartfelt generosity, and unwavering devotion to family and friends. Matt leaves behind his loving wife Ritva "Tina", son Stefan (Katie), and precious grandchildren, Joseph, Jack, Maria, Megan, and Luke.

The joy of his life began when he married his beloved Ritva, with whom he celebrated nearly 58 years of marriage. Together, they built a life characterized by mutual support and love, founding a successful industrial automation distribution company and nurturing it until they decided to embrace retirement. Matt and Ritva exemplified the true essence of partnership, and the joys of parenthood and grandparenting further strengthened their bond.

A devoted father and grandfather, Matt cherished conversations and family time together. He found immense joy in becoming a grandfather, joyfully enriching the lives of his grandchildren with warm hugs and unconditional love. Their lives were immeasurably enriched by his steady presence, compassionate heart, and steadfast wisdom.

Matt and Ritva worshipped at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church, whose worship service and choirs brought Matt great joy. Additionally, the couple found fulfillment in their volunteer service to Union Gospel Mission, reflecting their commitment to actively live their faith by showing love. Matt's passion for Ritva's culinary creations, alongside his delight for Minnesota Gopher basketball and hockey, filled retirement with simple pleasures and deep contentment.

Funeral services honoring the life of Matt Liiste will be on Wednesday, June 25, at Washburn-McReavy Chapel, located at 515 Hwy 96 W, Shoreview, MN 55126. Visitation begins at 10:30 am, followed by the service at 11 am, with a luncheon afterward. A private interment for immediate family members will occur at Fort Snelling.

In closing, Matt's life embodied this cherished scripture, Proverbs 4:23:

"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Matti "Matt" Liiste's Guest Book

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June 24, 2025

Troy and Kz Koboski planted trees.

June 11, 2025

Kirsti Johnson planted trees.

May 18, 2025

Robert Harder posted to the memorial.

3 Entries

Single Memorial Tree

Troy and Kz Koboski

Planted Trees

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Kirsti Johnson

Planted Trees

Robert Harder

May 18, 2025

Deepest condolences to Tina, Stef, Katie, and the grandchildren. It is hard for me to believe Matt has left us. I had known him since we met at Freshman "Beanie" camp the weekend before UMD classes started in the Fall of 1962. I had just turned 17, and we kept in close touch the rest of our lives. Words are inadequate, except perhaps to say "see you on the other side old friend."
In Remembrance,
Bob & Dee Dee Harder

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Sign Matti "Matt" Liiste's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

June 24, 2025

Troy and Kz Koboski planted trees.

June 11, 2025

Kirsti Johnson planted trees.

May 18, 2025

Robert Harder posted to the memorial.