Matt Fleeks

Matt M. Fleeks passed away on August 19, 2025 surrounded by love. He was born on June 27, 1955 to Bernard Leonard Fleeks, Sr. and Wealthy Lee Fleeks (nee Walker), both preceded him in death. From a very young age, Matt had an interest in Architecture. He pursued his passion and became an Architectural Engineer, specializing in Solar Engineering Design for high rise structures. Education: University of Illinois Chicago - BS and Illinois Institute of Technology - MS. Over his career of 40+ years, he worked at Chicago Housing Authority in the Urban Planning Department; Skidmore Owings and Merrill; Murphy/Jahn Architects and Urban Engineering. He retired from Urban Engineering.

He also served as the President of the Board of Directors for Paul G. Stewart (a cooperative housing conglomerate for seniors) located in Chicago's historic Bronzeville neighborhood. Throughout his life he had a strong faith and served as a Deacon in several churches. He also volunteered with organizations supporting individuals with visual challenges.

He was a loving husband of 39 years to Judith "Judi" Fleeks (nee White); a wonderful father to Matt Fleeks II and a lovely daughter-in-law, Deanna Ford-Fleeks; a doting grandfather of 2 beautiful granddaughters, Mackenzie and Michaela Fleeks; a loving brother to Felicia McClain and Bernard Fleeks, Jr. (preceded him in death) and a caring brother-in-law to Robert McClain and Alex White and son-in-law to Lucius White. He was called Uncle Kenny/Matt by 5 nieces; 2 nephews and 4 grand nieces, 7 grand nephews and 2 great grand nieces. He had close relationships with many cousins. He maintained deep friendships with individuals for many years.

Matt had a giving spirit with a keen intuition and a brilliant mind. He was an elegant man with exceptional taste and classic style. He dressed impeccably. Matt had a boundless love for his family and friends. He had great fortitude, courage and above all determination. His favorite pastimes were reading engineering/design books and playing games with his granddaughters. He enjoyed playing and excelled at all sports. Words were precious to him and if he asked you how you were doing, he really wanted to know. He and his wonderful sense of humor will be so missed by all that know and love him.

In lieu of flowers you may make a donation to the UNCF (the United Negro College Fund) in memory of Matt Fleeks. https://give.uncf.org

All services will be held at A. A. Rayner & Sons 318 East 71st Street. There are two Visitations -Thursday, August 28, 2025, from 03:00 PM to 07:00 PM and Friday, August 29, 2025, at10:00AM to 11:00AM. The Funeral Service will be held on Friday, August 29, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM