Former resident comes home to visit
Managing editor
Matt Loveless came home to Marion County last week to see family and friends.
It has been two years since his last visit, but this visit was different because Loveless is lucky to be able to return to Kansas — he is lucky to be alive.
Loveless was shot multiple times Dec. 5 outside his Tierrasanta, Calif., home.
Michael Keeper, 35, his wife’s ex-boyfriend and the father of Loveless’ stepson, shot Loveless at Loveless’ home — twice in the upper torso and once in the face — when Loveless was on the ground. The incident left the former Marion County resident paralyzed from the waist down.
Keeper was convicted in September of premeditated attempted murder, discharging a firearm causing great bodily injury, and assault with a firearm, landing him in prison for 32 years to life plus a second life term.
It’s been a long recovery for Loveless. Following a three-week induced coma after the shooting and nine months of therapy, he has had to re-learn to speak and adjust to life in a wheelchair.
Loveless returned to Marion County Oct. 21, sharing his time between staying with his father, David Loveless, and his grandparents, Mike and LaVonne Loveless of Lincolnville.
Loveless lived with his grandparents from the time he was 11 years old until he graduated in 1998 from Centre High School.
Traveling home by himself on an airplane made Loveless anxious.
“I was excited to come home and a little bit scared,” he said.
Upon his arrival in Wichita, all his fears went away when he saw a dozen members of his extended family who came to meet him at the airport.
This weekend wasn’t about what happened but what’s ahead.
Family and friends gathered Sunday afternoon at Bailey’s Tavern in Lincolnville to show their support for Loveless, including former CHS classmates. Time was spent visiting, playing pool, and reminiscing.
Loveless has spent his Kansas vacation renewing old friendships and eating meals with family. He tires easily and requires more sleep than the last time he was home but has enjoyed his stay.
Loveless, along with his wife, Jennifer, and stepson will soon move to Mississippi where his wife’s family has relocated.
Why not move back to Kansas?
“It’s too cold in Kansas,” Loveless said.
Loveless will return to California today where he continues physical therapy for his legs and left arm.
Family and friends are grateful they had this time with him and realize that Loveless is more than lucky.
He’s proof that a miracle can happen.