Reinhard Matye

Reinhard Matye, 72, of Charlevoix, MI, passed away on January 20, 2025.

Born on March 20, 1952, in Hof, Germany, Reinhard immigrated to the United States in the mid 1950s with his parents, where he built a fulfilling life surrounded by family, friends, and the community he deeply cherished. In his early life he met and married Lilly Matye and had two children, Andrea and Christopher Matye. They moved to Charlevoix in April of 1978 where Reinhard put down lifelong roots and raised his children. In 2015, Reinhard celebrated a union with Jill Matye and became a stepfather to Brandon and Chris Ritchie.

Reinhard founded DCL in 1981 alongside partners Werner Egger and Phil Camilleri, driven by a vision to elevate the Bulk Handling Industry through superior products and services. At the heart of his mission was the desire to create a workplace where people felt valued and their talents could shine. Today, his vision has flourished into a company that employs over 135 people and serves customers across the globe. From Charlevoix and Traverse City to Hyderabad, India, DCL’s products are used in more than 60 countries, a testament to his dedication and foresight.

Reinhard’s passion for leaving a lasting legacy was unmistakable. He took great joy in developing new innovations, often working closely with his son, Chris, to push the company forward. His pride in DCL’s success was evident, not only in its growth but also in the lives he impacted. Reinhard's leadership and kindness will forever be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Beyond his professional achievements, Reinhard had a zest for life that was evident in everything he did. He loved to travel and had countless stories, often outlandish and always entertaining, about his adventures around the world. His stories captivated friends, family, and even strangers, making him a beloved figure in his community. 

Reinhard also had a knack for turning everyday moments into something memorable. Whether it was cruising around town on his motorcycle and sidecar or sitting at the outdoor bar he designed for the Elks Club, Reinhard’s presence was always felt. His warm personality, quick wit, and love for his community made him a fixture in the lives of those who knew him.

His hobbies were vast including sailing, biking, golf, painting, playing music, smoking cigars, and sneaking his grandkids Twinkies when he was told not to. Memories of his guitar lessons and painting sessions will be remembered as fondly as the bike rides, sunset boat trips around Oyster Bay, and Sunday dinners he lovingly prepared.

He is survived by his current wife, Jill Matye; his children, Andrea Matye (Peter) Scholten and Christopher (Sarah) Matye ; his stepchildren Brandon Ritchie (Alexis Chesney) and Chris (Beverly) Ritchie; the mother of his children Lilly Matye; cherished “Opi” to Maya Whitley (Alex Matter), Kai Whitley, Julius Matye, Henry Matye, and Carter Ritchie; his brother Anton (Diane) Matye Jr. ; his nieces and nephews Anton Matye III (Dr. Lindsey Harden), Lauren Pardy, Jared (Kirsten) Imlay, Christian Matye (Olivia Jeakle).

Reinhard is preceded in death by his parents, Gisella and Anton Matye Sr., and his sister Lisa Matye.

There will be a funeral mass, with Father Greg McCallum presiding, on Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 513 Howard St., Petoskey, MI 49770. 

Visitation will be Wednesday from 1 p.m. until the beginning of mass at church.

Immediately following mass, there will be a celebration of life at the Charlevoix Elks Lodge.

An additional celebration of life will be held in Florida at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Charlevoix Area Humane Society, 614 Beardsley St, Boyne City, MI 49712, or the Charlevoix Circle of Arts, 109 Clinton St, Charlevoix, MI 49720.

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com