Matthew Gerhardt Lieb

Matthew G. Lieb, 56, of Asbury, NJ, departed from this world on Saturday, August 10, 2024, reuniting with his father Gerhardt (Gerry) Lieb and his mother Barbara Buck Lieb.

Matt was born in Cleveland, Ohio in 1968 and grew up in Conneaut, Ohio. He would often fondly reminisce about those moments he spent fishing in the Conneaut Creek with his childhood friends and his father, a man he adored deeply. He was also not only a talented baseball player but also an incredibly athletic one, excelling as a third baseman.

After graduating from high school in his hometown, Matt felt a calling which led him to enlist in the U.S. Navy between 1986-1988 as an electrical/mechanical equipment repairer. His path afterwards soon took him to New Jersey, where he lived with his father in Raritan for some time.

Eventually, Matt found his love Robin and made their way onto their property in Asbury, a place they both love so deeply for and value beyond measure. A place where he was surrounded by all his beloved kitties, joyfully riding around in his prized Kubota, which he held so dear. Day and night, Matt could be found outside on that seemingly ridiculous machine, tirelessly moving around stone boulders for what he proudly declared was his life's legacy-the pond. With his own hands and the support of his best friend Joe, Matt lovingly crafted two stunning stone cottages that stand as a testament to his passion and dedication to the life him and Robin built together.

Matt and Robin would frequently find themselves sitting outside, gathering around the fire pit with the kitties, where the flames danced brilliantly, thanks to the effort Matt poured into creating it. He would often pick up his guitar, strumming gently as he sang some of the songs that he loved most, and is also a bittersweet reminder of the music he both composed and left with us.

Through Matt's travels, he formed an instant connection with Joe Andruzzi III, where they not only pushed each other to become the best versions of themselves but also ignited a friendly competition between them in any aspect whether they were working or training
together. Matt and Joe also bonded through their mutual love of fishing, where they spent many a day wading in the many creeks and streams, they happened to stumble across. It was through this friendship that Matt discovered and passionately honed his love for martial arts, studying under the esteemed Sensei Castellano and Sensei Riello. Holding a second degree black belt with over 20 years of experience in Isshinryu Karate, he became an accomplished tournament fighter, proudly amassing multiple trophies along the way. Matt would always credit his extraordinary dancing skills to his experiences in martial arts, and those who knew him couldn't help but flock to the dance floor, eager to share in the magic of his movement.

Matt also studied at Mendham Hall Auctioneering School in North Carolina, and upon graduation, Matt embarked on his promising career, proudly building his business of New Jersey Auctions and Estate Sales. On weekends, when a sale didn't take over the calendar, Matt and Robin treasured every moment together, cruising through the breathtaking countryside of Hunterdon County in his beloved big red pickup truck. With a warm smile, Robin affectionately called it the "Sandford and Son truck," as they delighted in the beauty of each winding road, pausing for lunch in charming Clinton and happily filling the truck with all the treasures they could possibly stumble upon.

A true night owl, Matt cherished those serene evenings he would spend on the porch with his kitties, allowing himself to get wonderfully lost in his eBay discoveries, research and watching countless videos that captivated him from all corners of the internet.

Survived by his beloved soulmate and true love, Robin L. Cleaver, along with his stepdaughter Jessica L. Cleaver, both of whom adored Matt with every fiber of their being, just as he loved them so unimaginably in return.

Siblings include Mike Lieb, Laurie Lieb and Mike George, Chris and John Brundage. Nieces and nephews Lauren, Jake, and Max, along with a great-nephew Ezra. Cousin Regina and Matt's "second mom," Arlene.

Our family, Eric Decibus and Heather Rusczyk with their children Samson and Simon, Lonnie Decibus, Grandma Joan and the extended Cleaver family.

Our dearest friends Joe and Mary A., Tracy and Mike, Karen of Kodak, TN, Denise, Nigel, Sandy, Melissa, Brooke and Gus.

And to our family of neighbors, Scott and Randi, Charlie and Rosean, Eve, Remi and Eric, Apan and Sudeepthi, Ron and Charlotte.


All family and friends are warmly invited to come together in order to celebrate his life on Saturday, September 7th at 12:30pm at Zarephath Christian Church, 2 Ministry Center Dr., Zarephath, NJ 08890. Following the service, we will be gathering for a heartfelt repast at the Stage House Tavern, located at 1719 Amwell Rd., Somerset, NJ 08873, between 3pm to 5pm.


Rest in peace, our dear Matthew. Thank you for all the love you've shared, filling the hearts of every single person you've touched throughout the years. Your remarkable legacy will be unforgettable and proudly carried on, reflected in every pear, every apple, every grape vine, and every vegetable that thrives in the garden you nurtured, along with the vibrant flowers which continue to bloom. As Robin would beautifully express, "It's all a labor of Lieb [love]."

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Matthew Lieb's name to the Animal Hospital of Clinton-Perryville. 58 NJ-173, Hampton, NJ 08827. Their number is (908)-735-7213.