Matthew Leonard Cosand

Matt Cosand was loved. Matt had the unique ability to talk to everyone, and they would immediately warm to him. It’s not a coincidence, then, that he could sell ice cubes to Eskimos. He could turn on the charm, and you were hooked. Whether he was upselling at a movie theater, selling big rigs, or just hanging out in the stands at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Everyone loved Matt.

Matthew Leonard Cosand was born in DeRidder, Louisiana, on October 8, 1987. God took him home on Saturday, June 14, 2025. He left behind his loving wife Vanessa (Gee) his two children, Carmen and Maxwell. Parents Lecia Cosand (Strader), Mark Cosand, stepmother Kimberly (Hughes), and his sister Marissa Cosand, and grandparents Charles and Paula Cosand. He also leaves behind his brothers Marcus, Peter, and Pat, and joins his late brother Doc. Members from all sides of the family and many friends are included in the deep grief we are all feeling.

Matt could make many smile and feel good with his impersonations of Arnold Schwarzenegger and John Madden. He loved racing and has attended the “500” 30 straight years. His love for Michigan football was unsurpassed except by his father. Included in his sports fandom are the Pacers and Colts.

Of all his passions and loves, Matt’s love of family was probably his greatest love. He was so proud of his children and wife. He spent the last few years staying home and raising his kids, and a better stay at home dad there never was. Both Carmen and now Max have had the greatest love a child could have with Matt watching and teaching them. As for Vanessa, Matt could have never had a better partner to go through life with. They love each other deeply, and although Matt isn’t here physically, his presence will be felt forever.

On June 18, Matt, an organ donor, provided his life-sustaining organs to those in need. Matt’s big ol’ heart continues to beat. His lungs continue to breathe, and his eyes still see. All who love will continue to love him as others get to do as a recipient.