Matt Metzerott

DULUTH, Minn. - Matt Metzerott, 59, beloved companion of LeeAnn Johnson, passed away peacefully early Wednesday morning, Nov. 29, 2017, at Essentia Health-St. Mary's Medical Center in Duluth.

Matt was born on April 12, 1958, in Rochester, Minn., a son of Kirk Oliver and Beverly Jean (Golberg) Metzerott. He grew up in Louisville, Ky., where he acquired his love of University of Louisville sports and horse racing at Churchill Downs.

As an adult, Matt moved to Manitowish Waters, Wis., and was employed at The Blue Bayou Inn where he eventually began his career as a chef. Matt later worked at various ski hills and made his home in Hurley, Wis.

Matt and LeeAnn purchased The Branding Iron Steakhouse and Pub in downtown Hurley, and he shared his culinary skills with the community. Along with the restaurant, they operated a Mobile Bayou Bistro called The Rampagin' Cajun. There he served his Cajun fare at a wide variety of music festivals.

Matt was truly devoted to his dear LeeAnn. He absolutely loved the Blues, which led to his interest to play the guitar. Matt was passionate about all kinds of music. He was extremely talented and could impress everyone with his knowledge of artists and lyrics from all genres.

Matt took great pleasure cooking for his friends and family, telling stories while he conjured up his latest creation in the kitchen. In his free time, Matt was an avid reader. He enjoyed traveling to visit family and friends, especially in Florida and at the Kentucky Derby in Louisville.

Matt is survived by the love of his life, LeeAnn; a sister, Dawn, Louisville, and her children, Rose, Lindsay, Amanda and Graeme; and a brother, Oliver, Louisville. Other special relatives include Grandma Betty Johnson, Greg, Bonnie, Eric and Sarah Johnson and Brian, Ann, Andrew, Ian and Dylan Johnson.

A celebration of Matt's life will take place Saturday, Dec. 9, at 11 a.m., at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Hurley, with the Rev. Frank Kordek OFM officiating.

Expressions of affection in a charitable contribution in Matt's memory are suggested in lieu of flowers to The Marquette Area Blues Society, P.O. Box 5, Marquette, MI 49855.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, Mich. Condolences may be expressed online at lakesidememorialchapel.com.