Tributes

Lafayette- With heavy hearts, we share the unexpected passing of our dear friend, fierce advocate, and beloved community member, Matthew Isaak, whose untimely departure has left a deep void in the hearts of all who knew him. Matthew was far more than a member of Voice of the Experienced (VOTE)--he was a cornerstone of the movement for justice in Acadiana and beyond. A former professor at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Matthew used his intellect, compassion, and boundless energy to inspire, organize, and empower. He was deeply involved in a number of progressive causes through VOTE, Indivisible, and many other grassroots organizations. Whether he was registering voters, organizing mutual aid, speaking at public meetings, or organizing protests, Matt led with courage, and conviction. He spent his final day doing what he loved: fighting for the rights of others. Matthew believed deeply in the potential of people and the power of collective action. He was never too busy, too tired, or too proud to show up. He picked up garbage at community cleanups, collected supplies for the unhoused, and made everyone around him feel valued. His organizing wasn’t about changing minds with slogans--it was about letting people know they weren’t alone. That they mattered. That someone cared. Matthew was a true patriot. Although he was born in Canada, he loved this country. He fought hard for the Justice he felt was at this nation's core. His sense of humor, ofeltcasional “lovely pettiness,” and refusal to sugarcoat the truth made him both endearing and unforgettable. He was sharp, stubborn, and honest--sometimes painfully so--loved in spite of it. It was hard to stay mad at him. Frustrating at times, he was flawed like all of us. Matthew was also fiercely loyal and committed to the people he loved. He showed up in moments of crisis, maintained long-standing relationships through the hardest seasons of life, and stood by others when it mattered most--even when it was difficult. He never wavered in speaking the truth, even when the truth was hard to hear. Matthew is survived by his devoted partner Tommy Berger: his mother Heather Louise Smith; his brother, Tim Isaak; and a wide circle of chosen family-- longtime friends, fellow organizers, and community members whose activism he helped shape and strengthen. He was preceded in death by his father, David Isaak. We extend our deepest sympathies to all who loved him and ask that you keep them in your hearts during this time of grief. His absence will be felt deeply, but his legacy--of service, of love, of Good Works--will carry on. In honoring Matthew, we also honor the many organizers, advocates, and everyday heroes who keep showing up, day after day, for what’s right. You are appreciated. You are seen. Rest in power, Matthew. Your mission was righteous. Your impact was real. You mattered. #RestInPower #JusticeForAll #VOTELafayette #OrganizingMatters #GoodWorks #GoodTrouble

Tributes

Mathew Isaak

September 7, 1967 - July 22, 2025