MATTHEW DEAN NELSON

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MATTHEW DEAN NELSON
1983 – 2022

It is with great sadness that the family of Matthew Dean Nelson announce his passing on January 23, 2022, in Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada. He was 38 years old.
Growing up, Matt enjoyed being active. He had a love of the outdoors and played many different sports. He played basketball, soccer, rugby, and volleyball. Matt was a great teammate and played his heart out in every game. He was one of the hardest working players at every practice. Being active took on a different appearance in high school as he started to learn dance, especially ballroom dancing. Matt was asked to share this talent with others as he led fellow classmates in gym classes. Later he would share that talent as Matt loved to dance with Jenn and Autumn whenever there was music.
Many vacations took the family across Canada and the US. Often visiting cities and places that Dad (Monty) had travelled during his own childhood. Innumerable hours were spent side by side in the back of the mini van with his brothers. Even cheering on Dad as he pushed the broken van into Dillon, Montana on the way home from California.
As Ryan and Jeff's families grew, Matt loved spending time with his niece and nephews. Matt would often be found outside playing tag on the playground, pushing them on the swing, or catching them at the bottom of the slide. As the kids got older time was spent at places like Fun Factor playing arcade games and competing against each other.
In September of 2018 Matt's life would find a new meaning of love. While walking in a park, he sat down on a bench, and in Matt like fashion, struck up a conversation with the girl at the other end. That day he met the love of his life. Matt and Jenn's life together took off quickly as Matt fell in love with Jenn and her daughter Autumn.
Matt shared his love of the outdoors with Jenn as some of their most profound moments were spent hand in hand discussing what they wanted for their life together. There were many cherished moments during those walks, as they discussed their hopes and dreams, set goals, and planned their lives together.
Matt rose to the occasion of being dad to his 'Angel' Autumn. His main concern was to make sure she felt loved and supported in all that she did. Autumn grew to enjoy the outdoors with her dad often laughing while being pushed on a swing. He also taught her to throw a frisbee, play soccer, and ride a bike. When the weather did not cooperate, they would experiment with recipes as they cooked together, watched movies, and created art pieces together.
After a quick move to Kamloops Matt and Jenn were married in front of family and friends on August 21, 2021, in Kamloops, British Columbia. The following few months were spent establishing a life in Kamloops among the extended family that he loved so much.
Matt will be remembered being a loving, charismatic and caring person who saw everyone as an equal. Matt always gave to those in need, including giving his shirt off his back to someone who did not have one. Matt was full of energy and life and embraced every day as a new adventure. He would take the time to listen to anyone who needed an ear, as well as talk to everyone who needed a friend. Matt will be missed by everyone who knew him. He was taken to soon and opportunities will be missed by his early departure from this mortal life.
Memorial donations in Matthew's name may be sent to mattsmemorybench22@gmail.com, with plans to purchase a memorial bench.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 29, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. at Schoening Funeral Service, 513 Seymour Street, Kamloops, BC. Those wishing to attend virtually may do so here: https://funeraweb.tv/en/diffusions/45575 with passcode: 341801004811

Condolence messages may be left at: www.schoeningfuneralservice.com
Schoening Funeral Service
250-374-1454

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 28, 2022