July 14, 2026

Linn County News

Published July 15, 2026

Matthew Graham Tyson passed away peacefully on July 3, 2026, at age 51. Born in Arlington, Texas, on May 10, 1975, Matthew spent his final days surrounded by those who loved him.

Matthew was quiet by nature and cherished the company of close friends and family. Those who knew him will remember his gentle nature, his sense of humor, and the way he made others feel special, accepted and cared for.

He loved his family, art—including earning a degree in Graphic Design—airbrushing and decal work, the Royals, mountain biking, military subjects, firearms, and spending time with friends exploring in their Jeeps. Matthew also loved snowboarding. He once described standing at the top of a mountain before a run as the greatest sense of peace he had ever known—a moment that remained special to him throughout his life. Matthew was a kid at heart, finding joy in the things he loved and sharing that joy with those around him.

Above all else, Matthew loved and cherished Robin. For twelve years, they built a life together marked by devotion, friendship, laughter and unwavering commitment. Matthew loved deeply, and Robin often said that no one had ever loved her the way he did. Their recent wedding was a beautiful recognition of the love and commitment they had shared for twelve years.

Matthew leaves behind his wife, Robin Lynn (Kercher) Tyson; his stepsons, Josh Kercher and Derek Kercher; his grandchildren, Jaxxon and Chloe; his mother, Anna Maria (Gorrell) Hansen, and stepfather, Darlyn Hansen; his father, John Harrison Tyson, and stepmother, Susan Marie (Kirkpatrick) Tyson; his sister, Kimberly (Tyson) Johnson, and brother-in-law, Charles Johnson; his nephew, Dakota Rome; his half-sister, Haley (Hansen) Blevins, and brother-in-law Jerry Blevins; his stepsisters, Leah (Hansen) Conley and Sara (Hansen) Gow; and many other beloved family members and dear friends.

Though his time with us feels far too short, those who knew Matthew carry forward the gifts he gave so freely: kindness, laughter and love. We take comfort in imagining him once again standing at the top of a mountain, at peace.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Service was scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 7, at the Parker Methodist Church. Visitation was 6-8 p.m. Monday, July 6, at the Eddy-Birchard Funeral Home. Burial will be at Goodrich Cemetery. Contributions are to the Wounded Warrior Project and may be sent c/o Eddy-Birchard Funeral Home P.O. Box 430, Osawatomie, Kan. 66064.