Matthew Gerald Zahradnik
September 10, 1981 ~ February 13, 2023
Matthew Gerald Zahradnik, beloved son, husband, and father, 41, passed away Monday, February 13, 2023 from complications from a cardiac event. Matthew graduated from Keystone Oaks High School in 1999 and went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from Boston University in 2003 and a Masters in Security Studies from Georgetown University in 2012, completing his degree just before his daughter was born in early 2013. Matthew moved to the Washington, DC area in 2003 and spent many years working in national defense policy and strategy, most recently starting his own consulting firm, 1202 Strategies, LLC.
Matthew took great pride in his work and loved his family. He was admired for his quick wit, his insightful analysis, and his ability to connect people with each other. He cheered his daughter at all of her activities and helped at her sports games. An avid tennis player and fan, Matthew also followed his hometown Pittsburgh sports teams no matter where lived, particularly the Penguins. He was an excellent chef and enjoyed taking his family out to dinner together. He was also wonderfully handy around the house and dedicated to his outdoor holiday decorations, and he could often be found on his front or back porch listening to music and reading.
He is survived by his mother Corinne (Yeske) Zahradnik and her partner Gerald Vancko, his wife Rebecca (Morris) Zahradnik of Louisville, KY, his daughter Jane Grace Zahradnik, his godfather Uncle Philip Yeske of Aspinwall, PA, godmother Aunt Amy and Uncle Bill Storrs of Mt Lebanon PA, Aunt Betsy Zahradnik, Uncle Mickey (late Bea) of Bethel Park, PA, Aunt Monica and Uncle Calvin Watson, Uncle Bob (late Carrie) of Florida, and numerous cousins, family members, and friends. He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Michael and Elizabeth Zahradnik, maternal grandparents Clarence and Angela Yeske, father Gerald Zahradnik, and Aunt Rose (Ron) Crum.
Visitation and service to be held Saturday, February 25 at Lewinsville Presbyterian Church, 1724 Chain Bridge Rd, McLean, VA 22101. Visitation from 1pm to 3pm; service at 3pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Inova Fairfax Heart & Vascular Institute or Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. The online guestbook is available at www.moneyandking.com
Matthew took great pride in his work and loved his family. He was admired for his quick wit, his insightful analysis, and his ability to connect people with each other. He cheered his daughter at all of her activities and helped at her sports games. An avid tennis player and fan, Matthew also followed his hometown Pittsburgh sports teams no matter where lived, particularly the Penguins. He was an excellent chef and enjoyed taking his family out to dinner together. He was also wonderfully handy around the house and dedicated to his outdoor holiday decorations, and he could often be found on his front or back porch listening to music and reading.
He is survived by his mother Corinne (Yeske) Zahradnik and her partner Gerald Vancko, his wife Rebecca (Morris) Zahradnik of Louisville, KY, his daughter Jane Grace Zahradnik, his godfather Uncle Philip Yeske of Aspinwall, PA, godmother Aunt Amy and Uncle Bill Storrs of Mt Lebanon PA, Aunt Betsy Zahradnik, Uncle Mickey (late Bea) of Bethel Park, PA, Aunt Monica and Uncle Calvin Watson, Uncle Bob (late Carrie) of Florida, and numerous cousins, family members, and friends. He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Michael and Elizabeth Zahradnik, maternal grandparents Clarence and Angela Yeske, father Gerald Zahradnik, and Aunt Rose (Ron) Crum.
Visitation and service to be held Saturday, February 25 at Lewinsville Presbyterian Church, 1724 Chain Bridge Rd, McLean, VA 22101. Visitation from 1pm to 3pm; service at 3pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Inova Fairfax Heart & Vascular Institute or Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. The online guestbook is available at www.moneyandking.com
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May you rest in peace my wonderful son next to your family in Heaven and until we meet again remember that I loved you and will never forget the great memories I have of you! from your heartbroken Mom
Heartfelt condolence and prayers to Matthew’s mom, wife, daughter and extended family and friends. There are no words that will bring comfort but know the love you shared with him will be eternal. May he rest in peace.
I remember many times Matt along with the other Musketeers (Bethany my daughter, Rob and Dave, as I called them) would hang out on our porch playing games during their high school years at KO. I was shocked when Bethany called to let me know Matt had passed. My heart is sad for Becky and Jane, all his family and friends. I am keeping everyone in my prayers. Sharon Shaw
I was very fortunate to have taught AP Biology at Keystone Oaks High School. Matt was in my class and was a very bright and productive student. I felt that he had a future in science, but I realized that his real interest in public service. I was not surprised to learn that he had a successful career in his chosen field. As a student, he would contribute information and was eager to question when he had another opinion. As you might expect, he had many opinions!
As I reflect on my teaching career, I found it to be very rewarding to learn of Matt’s career and family successes. He certainly lived up to my expectations.
I wish the very best to Matt’s wife Becky, daughter Jane, mother Corrine and uncle Phil.
With my sympathy to all,
Don Murray
Matt was such a cheerful, entertaining presence on the bleachers, the most kind and supportive coach on the field, and the best possible fan of Jane and her teammates. We were blessed to have two seasons with the Zahradnik family, cheering on the Triple A girls. McLean Little League will not be the same without Matt. You will be deeply missed, Matt.
Our most heartfelt condolences to Becky and Jane.
-Maria, Marina, and the Askew Family
Sending our deepest condolences to Matt’s family and friends.
I offer my heartfelt sympathy and prayers to Corinne, Matt’s wife, daughter, and extended family. Often times when I had the opportunity to “catch up” with Corinne at her desk at Keystone Oaks, she proudly relayed stories of Matt’s many achievements. Matt achieved so much during his shortened life! I will add Corinne and the extended family to my prayer list.