Mattias “Matt” Charles Fiser

United States Navy Chief Petty Officer Mattias “Matt” Charles Fiser passed away on July 8, 2022 after a courageous battle with a rare brain tumor linked to burnpit exposure.

Fiser was born in Grinnell, Iowa, the oldest of four siblings. He naturally took on the role of a protective older brother. Fiser grew up surrounded by love and encouragement, which shaped his strong sense of character. In high school, he was a dedicated athlete, excelling in football, baseball, and track. An avid outdoorsman, he loved fishing, hunting, and participating in the Boy Scouts, eventually earning the rank of Eagle Scout. From a young age, he felt a deep calling to serve his country and knew the military was his path.

In October 1994, Fiser enlisted in the United States Navy as a builder in the Navy Seabees, combining his passion for hands-on work with his deep desire to serve his country. Naturally gifted at fixing and tinkering with things, he thrived in his role and found great purpose in mentoring young men and women—sharing his knowledge and experience to help prepare them for success in their own careers. One of his proudest achievements came in 2013, when he fulfilled a long-held goal of being promoted to Chief Petty Officer.

Over the course of his 24 year career, he was honored with numerous awards for his dedication, leadership, and bravery. These included two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, a Presidential Unit Citation, a Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, two Iraq Campaign Medals, eight Navy Good Conduct Medals, two National Defense Service Medals, a Combat Action Ribbon, five Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and a Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal.

Fiser met his wife, Eleanor while they were both stationed in Gulfport, Mississippi in 1998. They married in 2001 and shared 20 beautiful years together, building a life rooted in love, commitment, and shared purpose. Eleanor now resides in Iowa, where she finds joy in spending quality time with their son, Mattias II. They can often be found catching the latest movie or camping on weekends with the Boy Scouts. Eleanor is a Boy Scout Adult Leader in her son’s boy scout troop. She is also an enthusiastic supporter of the Special Olympics. With pride and excitement, she looks forward to cheering Mattias II on as he graduates high school and takes his next steps into the real world embracing the future with confidence and independence.

Eleanor is eternally grateful for the gift of a mortgage free-home and the peace of mind that comes with that security. Because of this incredible support, she no longer carries the weight of financial stress and can instead focus on what truly matters. She is able to cherish the memories of Fiser and create new ones in the comfort and warmth of their home.
United States Navy Chief Petty Officer Mattias “Matt” Charles Fiser is survived by his loving wife, Eleanor and their beautiful son, Mattias II.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage of the Fiser family home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.