Matthew Estrada

Matthew John Estrada (Matt) passed away on February 9th, 2021 while as he put it, “Loving Life!” skiing in Breckenridge, Colorado. Matt was born on May 11th, 1965 in Saginaw, Michigan and was raised in Merrill, Michigan where he graduated Merrill Community High School in 1983. Matt then moved to Memphis, Tennessee that following year and began his career working with Federal Express (FedEx) where he was employed for 30 years as a courier. After retirement, he began his second career, and moreover his passion, building modern architecture inspired bird homes. Chürp Modern was his self-owned business that allowed him to travel the country while participating in different art shows. It was there that he was able to meet hundreds of people, leaving lasting impressions with each person he met.
He is survived by his two sons Jordan Estrada (fiancée Morgan Corle) and Anthony Estrada (Jessica), and ex-wife Dorothy Estrada. Also surviving him are his parents Jesse and Doris Estrada, and siblings Mary Fagan, Denny Estrada (Mary), Denise Henris (Jim), Lynne Casey (Richard), Laurie Slomkowski (Joe), and Sue Renchen. He is also survived by countless nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
While Matt was employed for FedEx, he worked in Memphis, TN, Salt Lake City, UT, Saginaw, MI, and Murfreesboro, TN. It was in Murfreesboro, that he and Dorothy raised their two boys. Matt brought such great joy to everyone’s life that he was a part of. He was always the first one to crack a joke during awkward silence, always cared so deeply for those he loved, and he constantly lived his life to the fullest. Matt will be sorely missed by all of his friends and loved ones.
A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, May 8, 2021 at the Columbian Hall, 21520 Gratiot Rd., Merrill, MI from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. In accordance with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services ordinance, indoor capacity may be limited, face coverings are required, and social distancing encouraged. We appreciate everyone’s efforts to reduce the spread of covid-19 in our community.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tennessee Craft