Beloved Bradenton Engineer Matthew Marshall Remembered at Celebration of Life

Bradenton, FL, USA - On June 23, 2025, the close-knit community of Bradenton, Florida, lost a shining star, Matthew Allen Marshall, at the young age of 29. Born and raised in this vibrant city, Matthew was not just a skilled mechanical engineer; he was a passionate sports enthusiast, a dedicated partner, and a cherished friend.

Matthew graduated from Florida State University, where he honed his engineering skills, eventually carving out a successful career at companies like Komatsu in Peoria, Illinois, and CK Power in St. Louis, Missouri. Known for his expertise in “really big trucks” and diesel engines, Matthew made a mark early in his career by resolving complex design issues within just three months of joining CK Power. His talent didn’t go unnoticed, as he brought his innovative approach to every project he touched.

A Passion for Sports

Outside the engineering realm, Matthew’s heart was firmly planted in the world of sports. His love for teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Florida State Seminoles played a significant role in his life. Notably, he enjoyed playing baseball, football, hockey, and soccer, with soccer being his favorite. From kicking a ball at five years old to playing competitively through high school, and even enjoying recreational games as an adult, sports were more than just a pastime for him.

Matthew’s connection to hockey went beyond just fandom; he met his partner, Michayla Payne, during a game. Together, they shared not just their love for sports, but also created a beautiful family, welcomed by Michayla’s daughter, Lennon Polaski. This sense of family extended to his parents, David and Beth Marshall, and his mother, Jennifer Marshall, alongside his siblings, Melanie Conner and Nolan Marshall, who will hold the memories of Matthew close in their hearts.

Celebration of Life

The community is invited to gather in remembrance of Matthew on July 5, 2025. A Gathering will be held from 3-4 PM at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory in Bradenton, followed by a Celebration of Life at 4 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family has graciously requested donations to the Seminole Club of Manatee, aimed at supporting future Florida State University students through scholarships, ensuring that Matthew’s legacy endures in the hearts of aspiring engineers.

In remembering Matthew, we must also acknowledge the critical work of engineers like Rolando, who share a similar journey and dedication to the field. Rolando, with over 32 years of experience in mechanical engineering, has contributed to significant healthcare projects across Florida. His expertise in areas like HVAC systems and plumbing has helped shape facilities that serve countless lives, reflecting the strong foundation laid by institutions like the Florida A&M University-Florida State University College of Engineering, which has enabled students to pursue their degrees and contribute to fields as vital as engineering.

As we come together to honor Matthew’s legacy, it’s worth pondering how the bonds formed through passions and careers can create lasting impacts within our community. In life, as in engineering, there’s always something to be said for connection and passion — qualities that Matthew embodied until his last moment.

We invite the residents of Bradenton to reflect, share, and cherish their memories of Matthew Allen Marshall, a remarkable individual who, despite his short time on earth, made a lasting imprint on those around him.

For more information on Matthew’s life and legacy, you can read more from The Bradenton Times, details about the significant contributions from TLC Engineers, and explore the engineering programs available through FAMU-FSU.