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Keshaun Gabriel Mata, 25, of Santa Paula, was born on January 1, 1999 and sadly passed away on March 21, 2024 surrounded by his family after a 20 year battle with cancer. Although Keshaun battled cancer most of his life, he never let his diagnosis or battle define him. He always remained the sweet, big hearted, humorous kid that everyone came to love. His smile, laughter, kindness and sense of humor were just a few of the many things that drew you to him.

Keshaun grew up playing for Santa Paula Little League, Santa Paula Youth Football Jr Cardinals and youth basketball. Keshaun was a man of many things, but excuses were not one of them. Despite his ongoing battle with cancer, Keshaun battled hard on the baseball diamond, the basketball court and the gridiron and often had many of his opponents and their coaches admiring his work ethic and skill.

As a 2017 Santa Paula High School Alum, Keshaun was best known for his hard work on the football field, leading his team as the quarterback and inspiring others with his courage, strength and resilience.

After high school, Keshaun gave back to his community when he worked at the Varsity Training Facility in Santa Paula. He trained the youth of Santa Paula and inspired many to fall in love with fitness.

When Keshaun wasn't working, he was hanging with friends or making memories with his Mata and Ruiz family. You could always count on Keshaun to get everyone laughing.

Keshaun leaves behind his mother Christina Mata, Father Travis (Brooke) Rogers, siblings Clarissa Mata (Jorge De Arcos), Dante Mata-Burney, Noah Mata and Kamryn Rogers, nieces Audrina, Jenessa, MaryJane & nephew Ezekiel De Arcos and Grandparents Mary & Henry  Mata and Deborah Rogers. He also leaves behind uncles, aunts, cousins, countless friends and the entire community.

He was proceeded in death by his nephew Jorge De Arcos Jr.

Although Keshaun's life was cut short, he will live on in the legacy he left behind and the many people that he inspired. He was a true example of strength and courage. He showed us how to live life to the fullest no matter what battles or challenges you face. He will be deeply missed by his family, his community and those who were lucky enough to know him.

The family would like to thank the hematology/oncology ward at Children's Hospital of Los Angeles and the UCLA Medical Center for the care that Keshaun received throughout his 20 year battle.

"When you die, it doesn't mean that you lose to cancer. You beat cancer by how you live, why you and in the manner in which you live."

- Stuart Scott