08/27/2026
On behalf of Greg Matthews’ family, friends, City of Merrill staff, and the staff of the Lost River Bluegrass Festival, we would like to sincerely thank the Klamath Basin Potato Festival for honoring Greg and his family as the 2026 Grand Marshals. Greg will especially be honored for the many years of service he gave during the Potato Festival; as well as entertaining us with his extraordinary band, the Stukel Mountain Stranglers. This recognition means more to us than words can express. Thank you for remembering Greg, honoring his legacy, and including his family in such a special way.
2026 Grand Marshall
Greg Matthews and Family
Gregory Matthews was a man whose life was defined by harmony, heart, and an unwavering devotion to his family and community. In October 2001, Greg began working for the City of Merrill, embarking on a career that was far more than a job—it was a lifelong mission to serve, build, and uplift everyone around him. Greg loved his work and thrived on being hands-on, always taking on whatever needed to be done. He took immense pride in his work family, believing that alongside Rayna and Kari in the office and his right-hand man, Juan Carlos, they had the absolute perfect staff to keep the city running smoothly.
Greg’s visionary spirit transformed the landscape and culture of Merrill. With a passion for history and community spaces, he created The Modoc War Museum, Flag Pole Park, and Good Duck Park. He also brought people together through the power of music by founding the beloved Lost River Bluegrass Festival. Greg used these projects as a bridge to reach out to anyone in the community who was in need. Whether he was coaching Little League, organizing his annual community Christmas program, teaching local kids how to play the guitar, or sharing the rich history of the Merrill-Modoc War Museum, Greg spent his life pouring love and mentorship into the next generation.
At the center of Greg’s world was his beautiful family. He shared 45 wonderful years of marriage with his devoted wife, Ronnell Matthews. Together, they built a lasting legacy of love through their two sons and their families: Owen and his wife Michelle, parents to Micayla (17) and Nolan (10); and Jack and his wife Jamie, parents to Emma (14), Evelyn (12), Ember (9), and Elise (3). Greg treasured his roles as a husband and father, but being a grandfather brought him a unique and profound joy. He spent every moment he could with his grandchildren, creating unforgettable memories—including the deeply special bonds forged through music, like playing the fiddle alongside his granddaughter, Evelyn. Where Greg went, his loyal four-legged best friend, Bugle Ann, was sure to follow; the two were never apart.
Music was a foundational piece of Greg's soul, but his truest masterpiece was the kindness he extended to everyone he met. He loved his family fiercely, cherished his friends deeply, and spent his life ensuring that no one in his community was left behind. We are all profoundly better off for having shared life with such an amazing, generous man.
Gregory Matthews will never be forgotten.
