Matthew Gumbel '91 Scholarship

This scholarship fund has been established to honor the life and legacy of Matthew Adam Gumbel '91, who passed away on September 24, 2021, after a courageous three year battle with cancer. 

Matt was a devoted husband, father, and family man who enjoyed spending time with all those he loved and would do anything for others. He brought joy to any gathering, often getting people together for board games, backyard home run derby, mini stick hockey games, putt-putt, or last minute trips to Dairy Queen. He was a loyal friend and loved his weekly chats with them, talking about sports, stocks, and just sharing laughs.

After graduating from University of Detroit Jesuit High School in 1991, Matt went on to Michigan State University. He loved the Spartans and was so happy to see both of his sons enjoying the University that he so enjoyed. Matt worked so hard for his family throughout his career as an Account Executive in the computer software industry, most recently for Dell Technologies.

Matt was a one-of-a kind hockey coach, who knew how to teach the fundamentals of the game, while also modeling what it means to play with integrity and sportsmanship. He was there for his players both on and off the ice, and cherished the friendships made through the years of hockey.

In everyday life, Matt modeled what it means to live with faith in our Lord, and as a Man for Others. He took up his cross of cancer with courage, living in hope, faith, and joy, in spite of the challenges that he faced. Matt will be missed more than words can express and remembered with so much love for the amazing man that he was. All that knew him, felt the love that he shared for anyone that he was with. He lit up the room with his beautiful smile and he was truly a gift to us all.

Charles William Gumbel '64 passed away peacefully on January 22, 2025. Born in Detroit, Michigan to William and Edith Gumbel, Chuck lived a life rooted in faith, service, education, and an unwavering devotion to family.

Chuck’s lifelong devotion to Catholic education began in his early years at St. Cecelia Catholic School and continued at his beloved University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy, where he graduated in 1964. He earned his bachelor's and master’s degrees at the University of Detroit, laying the foundation for a remarkable career in education.

Chuck began teaching at St. Michael, followed by St. Dennis, and then spent several years at Bishop Foley before spending the rest of his career at U of D High. Over fifty years of unparalleled service, Chuck left an indelible mark on every aspect of the school community and embodied the culture more so than any one individual. He spent decades in the classroom teaching math, and held various other positions at the school including Athletic Director, Dean of Students, Principal, hockey coach, and coach for many other teams. Chuck’s passion and dedication were evident in every role he undertook. He was a leader, a mentor, and a pillar of the U of D High family.

One of Chuck’s proudest achievements was re-establishing the hockey program at U of D Jesuit during the 1995-96 season after a 58-year hiatus. His efforts were recognized in 2015 when he was inducted into the U of D Jesuit Athletic Hall of Fame as the inaugural recipient of the Tom Coyne '62 Distinguished Service Award. In 2016, he was inducted into the Detroit Catholic League Athletic Hall of Fame. During his career, he also received the P.J. Rice S.J. and the John Zbyrad Awards.

Chuck’s greatest legacy lies in the countless lives he impacted. He held his students and athletes to the highest standards, not out of strictness, but because he deeply believed in their potential. His tough love and encouragement became a guiding force, shaping young men into compassionate, driven, and honorable individuals. Chuck remained a steadfast supporter of his students long after their graduation, and cherished the opportunities he had to see them over the years.

Beyond his professional life, Chuck’s greatest joy was his family. The values of faith, service, and education that he cherished were reflected in his relationships and in the love he shared with those closest to him. He comes from a large family as the oldest of eight siblings, and will always be remembered as a devoted and supportive brother and uncle. His guidance, wit, and generous spirit will be missed by all who knew him.