Matthew Eiskant

Matthew Scott Eiskant, 49, of Belleville, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2026, at his parents’ home, surrounded by his loving family and friends. Born on October 16, 1976, Matthew lived a life dedicated to his family, community, and calling to serve others.

Matthew was preceded in death by his:

• Grandparents: Virgil and Juanita Cleveland
• Grandmother: Eva Eiskant
• Uncles:
  • Charles Cleveland
  • David Cleveland
  • Dale Cleveland
  • Timothy Cleveland
  • Lester Eiskant
  • Bruce Eiskant
• Aunts:
  • Martha Howlett
  • Elizabeth Hendricks
• Cousin: Jim Huetsch

He is survived by his:

• Parents: Lonnie Sr. and Juanita Eiskant
• Brother: Lonnie (Kim) Eiskant Jr.
• The love of his life: Tricia Rau Bleich
• His bonus children:
  • Aiden Howard
  • Robert Bleich
  • Randi Bleich
• Numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, colleagues, and members of the community whose lives he touched throughout his years of service.

Chief Matthew S. Eiskant was a devoted public servant, respected leader, beloved son, brother, partner, and father figure whose life was defined by his commitment to his family, his community, and the people he served.

Matthew was a proud product of the community he served. He graduated from Belleville East High School in 1995 before attending Lindenwood University, where he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. His dedication to public service began on June 18, 2001, when he began his career with the Belleville Police Department. After graduating from the Southwestern Illinois College Police Academy, he began serving as a patrolman working the 3-11 shift.

In 2003, Matthew was assigned to the Detective Division, beginning the investigative work that would define much of his early career. His dedication, professionalism, and commitment to others earned him numerous official commendations and recognitions throughout his 25 years of service. Among his many honors, he was named the Belleville Police Department’s Officer of the Year in 2008 and was also recognized as Big Brothers Big Sisters Police Officer of the Year in 2008.

Matthew continued to advance through the ranks while pursuing professional growth and leadership opportunities. On September 12, 2010, he was promoted to Detective Sergeant, followed by a promotion to Lieutenant on July 3, 2012. He continued his professional development at the national level, graduating from the FBI National Academy, Session 257, on September 19, 2014. On June 25, 2016, he was promoted to Captain and appointed Special Operations Commander.

On July 3, 2018, Matthew was appointed Assistant Chief of Police, carrying the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. On June 21, 2022, he reached the pinnacle of his career when he was appointed Chief of Police.

Beyond his service with the Belleville Police Department, Matthew also served as an investigator with the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis, where he rose to the level of Deputy Commander and served as a Board Member. He was also a member of the Southern Illinois Chiefs of Police Association. Throughout his career, Matthew’s leadership, compassion, dedication, and commitment to his community left a lasting impact on the countless lives he touched.

Matthew was an avid deer hunter who found great joy in spending time outdoors. He cherished the quiet moments in the woods, the traditions of hunting, and the memories made with family and friends. Hunting was a passion that brought him peace, happiness, and countless memories he will be lovingly remembered for.

While Matthew was deeply devoted to his career and community, his greatest pride was the people he loved. He will be remembered most not by his titles or accomplishments, but by the love, loyalty, kindness, and strength he gave to his family and those fortunate enough to know him.

Matthew’s legacy will live on through the people he loved, the community he served, and the many lives he made better through his dedication and compassion. His service may have been his profession, but serving others was truly a part of who he was. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever honored.

Memorials: The family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to The BackStoppers, an organization that provides support to the families of fallen first responders. Donations in Matthew’s memory would be a meaningful way to honor his commitment to supporting fellow first responders and their families.

School Visitation: Visitation from 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Sunday, August 30, 2026 at Belleville East High School in Belleville, IL with a First Responder Walk Through at 6:00 p.m.

Church Visitation: Visitation from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Monday, August 31, 2026 at First Baptist Church O’Fallon, 1111 E. Highway 50 in O’Fallon, IL.

Services: Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am, Monday, August 31, 2026 at First Baptist Church O’Fallon with Rev. Dr. Doug Munton officiating. Interment will follow at Valhalla in Belleville, IL.

Obit Provided By:
Kurrus Funeral Home