July 20, 1987 - September 16, 2018
A celebration was held on Mackenzie Beach in Tofino BC for Mat on October 10th, 2018.
It began just before sunset with a perfectly clear sky. The sky lit up with so many stars, I felt every person we loved was there with us.
A bonfire was built, and stories shared. There were tears, but mostly laughter. As all light faded away, we joined hands by the water's edge, at the end of the world. We lit sagebrush, passing it around to say a few words about Mat and our goodbyes. The surrounding love was very healing and will linger forever.
We feel honoured to have met so many wonderful people who truly loved Mat for the beautiful soul he was. The love and affection was inspiring.
Mat was a quiet, gentle person who would help anyone in need. He saw the goodness in people especially those who had seen or hit hard times. He tried to live a simple life and not worry about the small things. He knew what was important, family, friends, music and always, food.
A talented musician, cook, brother, uncle, but most of all a wonderful son.
The pride he had for his home was felt throughout and I will cherish every moment spent there. I will hold on to the beauty he shared, the kindness and grace he displayed, his music, the side-eye smile and all our chats that inevitably turned to discussing food and recipes.
You will be in my heart forever, your voice will fill my head each moment of the day, the weeks, months and years, until my world fades away. My beautiful boy, you truly were a gift......