LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Jon Matthew Woodard, “Matt,” passed away peacefully on Dec. 28, 2024, in his home at 8:30 a.m.

He was born on Oct. 15, 1956, to June “Vonnie” Woodard and Graydon “Woody” Woodard in Lebanon, Missouri.

Matt was the 1974 class president and graduate of Piner High School in Santa Rosa, California. He attended Santa Rosa Junior College and Western Montana University. Matt was 68 when he passed away.

In 1986, Matt and Julie Woodard moved their family, children Kurtis and Roxanne, to Hidden Valley Lake from Santa Rosa. Matt took on a managerial position at Hardester’s Market in Middletown and saw many opportunities to grow with his ambitious mindset in Lake County.

Over the next 30 years, he owned several businesses and built lasting friendships throughout the county. Among his ventures, Matt purchased and owned Hidden Valley Storage, Jolly Kone Restaurant, Mustang Grill, J&L Market in Clearlake (on Old Highway 53) and Woody’s Café at Kelseyville Lumber. He also invested in and built more than 50 homes in Hidden Valley Lake, Lower Lake and Cobb.

More recently, Matt served as the maintenance director for Hidden Valley Lake Association, where he passionately supported his community.

The only thing Matt may not have done well was retire, but that drive kept him fighting against cancer and cherishing moments with his nine grandchildren. Matt was immensely proud of their achievements in school, on the playing fields and courts, and as they entered the working world.

Matt is survived by Jackie, Julie, his two children, his nine grandchildren, his loving family and his many cherished friendships.

A celebration of life service will be held at the Greenview Restaurant in Hidden Valley Lake on Saturday, Feb. 15, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.