Matthew “Jeff” Jeffery Willhauck, 58, of Palmer, Alaska, passed peacefully on July 3, 2026, in Hilo, Hawai‘i, surrounded by love. Born on April 9, 1968, in Sitka, Alaska, he was the son of Bill and Doris Willhauck, who preceded him in death. Jeff leaves behind a legacy of laughter, mischief, wit, humor, loyalty, and remarkable skill. He is preceded in death by his parents, his grandparents, and his mother‑in‑law, all of whom now welcome him home with open arms.

Jeff and Yvonne were celebrating their 35 years of marriage, a partnership built on laughter, memories, devotion, humor, and unwavering commitment. Through the highs and lows, the joy and pain, the good and the bad, they chose love every single day. Their life together was marked by resilience, shared adventures, and a bond that carried them through every season. They were just two crazy kids who built a beautiful life together — even when others thought it impossible.

He is survived by his loving family, which included his wife, daughter, son, his daughter‑in‑law, his two grandsons, his third grandson due in August, and his sister in Pennsylvania. Jeff is also survived by his nieces and nephews; his brothers‑in‑law; his bonus daughter in Florida; and a bonus grandson due in November, who will grow up hearing funny stories and tall tales of the man who came before them — his skills, his knowledge, his loyalty, his unforgettable humor, his quick wit, his love of his dogs, and his greatest fishing adventures. Jeff enjoyed fishing, especially fly fishing, and could talk for hours about the ones that got away and the ones he swore were “this big.” His grandsons will also hear all the stories about his love for cars and trucks — especially his C10, which he was keeping and restoring just for them so he could take them out driving someday, burn rubber, and go fast.

A gifted mechanic, Jeff was known as someone who could fix anything placed in front of him. No matter how broken something was — even when everyone else thought it couldn’t be saved — he’d find a way to bring it back to life. Getting something new was rare, because Jeff could repair, rebuild, or modify just about anything. His remarkable teaching ability was one of his greatest strengths, even though he’d insist he didn’t have any. Passing on his knowledge to the younger generation was a true gift. He could be tough on them, but always from a place of respect, because he believed in their potential and knew they could rise to the challenge. And in classic Jeff fashion, he’d probably say, “If I can do it, you sure as hell can,” with that signature smirk.

Jeff approached life with sarcasm, wit, stubbornness, and a sharp sense of humor. He loved a good laugh and could be a real jokester. His talent for voices and impressions was incredible — he could mimic just about anyone, from coworkers to cartoon characters — though he was far too self‑conscious to show off those talents to most people. And what many never knew is that Jeff also had an amazing singing voice, held back only by stage fright. May he sing loud and proud among the angels now, probably doing impressions of them too.

Above all else, Jeff’s proudest accomplishments were his kids and grandkids. Nothing brought him more joy, more pride, or more peace than watching them grow, succeed, and become the people he always knew they could be. He took great pride in walking both his daughter and son down the aisle on the days of their weddings. He was so proud of his daughter the day she graduated college with her bachelor’s degree. And the day his son became a father — holding his own son, who looked just like him — Jeff’s heart nearly burst. Watching his children dote on their boys always brought a big smile to his face. When the family was all together, he’d nudge his wife and say, “We did all this, you and I.”

Being “Grandpa Willhauck” was the role he cherished most — and he played it with all the humor, heart, and mischief he had. He loved fooling the boys, sneaking them candy, popcorn, or ice cream when no one was looking, always whispering, “Don’t tell your grandma.” It was his favorite kind of trouble.

Jeff was a remarkably talented, goofy, silly guy we loved deeply and will miss tremendously. His hands were skilled, his heart was generous, and his laugh made every space feel lighter. He had a way of making people laugh even when they didn’t want to — a gift that will be missed as much as his stubbornness and his soft‑spoken wisdom.

Jeff will be tremendously missed by his family, friends, coworkers, and the many animals who adored him. His absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but his love, humor, and legacy will remain with us always.

May he rest peacefully in the arms of our Lord. We love you, always.

A celebration of life is planned, with a date to be determined pending the birth of his third grandson.

In lieu of flowers, an account has been established at Matanuska Valley Federal Credit Union for anyone wishing to contribute to the ongoing love and care of Jeff’s beloved pets, ensuring they continue to be cared for in the way he would have wanted.

Account Number: 204071

For security and transfer details, please contact MVFCU directly.