Matthew James “HOG LEG” Braden, born on the 10th of April, 1971 in Oskaloosa, Iowa, passed away on the 31st of August, 2026 at home with his loving family by his side. Matthew, a long-time resident of Eddyville, was a hard-working and dedicated laborer. He worked at Sarges Standard in Oskaloosa, and then Clow Valve in Oskaloosa, and later Tri-County Construction in Eddyville. His willingness to take on various odd jobs around the community further demonstrated his unwavering dedication to his hometown.
Beyond his professional life, Matthew’s personal interests were deeply rooted in the community of Eddyville. An alumnus of Eddyville High School, he took great pleasure in maintaining the appealing look of his town by mowing lawns for numerous residents. An outdoorsman at heart, Matthew enjoyed hunting and fishing in his leisure time. He had an affable personality that won over everyone he met, making him a beloved friend to all. Above all, Matthew cherished the time he spent with his family and friends, the bonds he formed with them being some of his most treasured possessions. Matthew’s enduring love for his community and its people will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He is survived by his father Rodger Braden; daughter, Zoey Braden; siblings, Julie (Eric) Francis, Judy (Kent) Black, Jody (Brian) Eveland; nieces and nephews, Lane, Blair and Kade, Allee and Wylie, Adlynn and Cale. He was preceded in death by his mother, Alice Braden; grandparents, Ralph and Evelyn Lobberecht, Willard and Ruth Braden, and many aunts, uncles and cousins also preceded Matt in death.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2026, opening to the public at 3:00 p.m, with family present from 5-7 p.m., Thursday evening at the Eddyville Celebrate Life Center. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, September 4, 2026 at 10:30 a.m., with Pastor Rodney Stodghill officiating at the Eddyville Celebrate Life Center. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established to the family.
We invite those who knew Matthew to leave memories, anecdotes, and upload photographs to the memorial page. Your contributions will help us remember Matthew as the friendly, hardworking, and devoted man he was.
