Obituaries

Matthew John Bihl, 68, of Southgate, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. Born in Fort Thomas on January 21, 1958, he was the beloved son of the late Elmer and Judy Bihl and treasured son-in-law of Bill and Theresa Lewis.

Matthew was a proud 1976 graduate of Newport Central Catholic High School and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in Biology and Zoology from Xavier University in 1982.

Matthew had a lifelong love of nature and the outdoors. Some of his fondest memories were made as a young man spending summers working in Yellowstone National Park and serving as a tour guide in the Everglades. Whether camping beneath the stars, fishing quiet waters, or hiking wooded trails, Matthew found peace and joy in the natural world. Some of his proudest personal achievements included summiting Mount Rainier in 1986 and being granted the honorary civil title of “Kentucky Colonel” in 1994.

In his later years, Matthew dedicated time volunteering with Cleaner Kentucky, helping to remove litter and care for the environment he loved so much. He was also an avid fan of bluegrass music and looked forward to his summers camping with loved ones at the Festival of the Bluegrass, Kincaid Lake State Park, and the Pig Roast.

Above all else, Matthew’s greatest joy and purpose in life were his children and grandchildren. As a devoted single father, he worked tirelessly to be the very best dad he could be to his daughters, Nicole and Kimberly, ensuring they always felt loved, protected, and cared for. He especially cherished introducing them to the beauty of nature and sharing countless memories together; visiting state and national parks, tending to their garden, and sitting on the porch watching fireflies and thunderstorms. His love only grew with the arrival of his four beloved grandchildren, with whom he treasured every moment spent.

Matthew leaves behind his beloved daughters, Nicole (Paul) Sheehy and Kimberly (Jon Hellmann) Bihl; his cherished grandchildren, Casey Sheehy, Ivan Sheehy, Olivia Sheehy, and Sylvie Sheehy; brother, Mark (Kris) Bihl; sisters, Susan (Dave) Schroeder, Cindy (Dan) Murphy, and Christine (Patrick) McCauley; and an extensive network of cousins, friends, and neighbors.

Services will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to A Cleaner Kentucky at CleanerKY.org, either monetarily or through volunteering your time, as this nonprofit was very close to Matthew’s heart.

Online condolences may be expressed on Facebook or at SerenityFuneralCare.com

Matthew will be remembered for his genuine kindness, adventurous spirit, unwavering love for his family, and deep appreciation for the beauty of the world around him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, stewardship, and treasured memories that will live on in all who knew him.