Matthew “Q” McQuesten

Matthew “Q” McQuesten was a Federal Paramedic with the Veterans Affairs Fire Department in Chillicothe, Ohio, and also worked alongside his father at the St. Albans Township Fire Department as a firefighter for his community. He had severe mitral regurgitation that had recently been discovered due to an abnormal heart rhythm. On November 29, 2023, he went into the hospital for open heart surgery for mitral valve replacement. Unexpectedly, during the surgery, his heart stopped working. Since he was only 37, the doctors believed that his heart would regain the ability to function. He had medical devices implanted to help his non-functioning heart work, but it was decided that he needed a heart transplant. His wife worked for Lifeline of Ohio, which inspires people to donate organs to those in need. She knew if he could get a heart, he would be ok, but hope ran out. He waited 14 days but did not get a heart. He passed away on December 19, 2023. 

McQuesten was born in Lewis-McChord, Washington. Ever since childhood, he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a firefighter. He followed his dreams of being a first responder and saving lives. He graduated from Paramedic school in December 2013 and earned his Fire Certification in the summer of 2015. He was employed as a Federal Paramedic by the Veterans Affairs Fire Department in Chillicothe, Ohio, and a firefighter for St. Albans Fire Department, alongside his father, in Alexandria, Ohio.  

McQuesten married the love of his life, Kelli, and their family included their children, Caleb, Parker, and Grayson. Matt was meant to be a father, and he was affectionately called the “baby whisperer.” He adored his family and was very involved in their lives. For over eight years, he coached his children’s travel and indoor soccer teams, supporting their love for the sport. He would have done anything for his boys and was their biggest fan. He worked very hard and wanted his children to fulfill their dreams, just as he had done. He loved taking his family on their annual Tennessee trips and to Florida with his in-laws. He lived a life of service to the people in his community and was there for them in their time of need. He was dedicated, determined, and courageous. 

Paramedic/Firefighter Matthew “Q” McQuesten is survived by his loving wife, Kelli, his sons, Caleb, Parker, and Grayson, his parents, his siblings, and many other cherished family members and friends. 

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the McQuesten family home through the Fallen First Responder Home Program.