It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael “Mike” James Matthews, on November 4th, 2023, at the age of 68, at his home in Payson, UT.
Born on May 15th, 1955, in Pomona, CA, Mike was son of Jeanne Lynch and the late Joe Lynch and the late Mike Matthews Sr. and Beverly Matthews.
Mike is survived by his daughter, Cassi Michele Matthews Wolf (Matthew). His mother, Jeanne Lynch, his siblings: Lori Burk (Darrel), Jamie Barney (Rex), Lisa Williams (Jeff), Lori Farris, Jolene Connors (Rich), and the late Christopher Matthews. As well as nieces, nephews, and cousins that will cherish his memory.
From his early days as a mischievous child into his adult years, Mike was a master prankster and harbinger of surprises. His affinity for scaring his mom with fake spiders and chasing his sisters with live snakes created lasting family memories. Christmas brought forth a unique tradition of hiding a plastic skeleton in the tree, sparking a friendly competition among family members to find it first.
He began his career as an ironworker in the early 80s. He was a member of the California Ironworkers Union Local 344 and the Intermountain Ironworkers Union Local 27. Mike took pride in his profession and what it meant to be part of a union. His craftsmanship left a noteworthy mark throughout Utah and Wyoming, which includes power plants in Eastern Utah, the Wyoming Wind Energy Center wind farm in Evanston, Building 222 on Main Street in Salt Lake City, the University of Utah’s Natural History Museum, and the Intermountain Medical Center in Sandy, UT.
Mike found joy in various pursuits. An avid fisherman, a life-long Pink Floyd fan, a desert racing enthusiast, and a connoisseur of history and science facts, Mike’s eclectic interests enriched his life and the lives of those that loved him. One of the things that brought him the most happiness, love, and connection was caring for his and his daughter’s Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
A celebration of Mike’s life will be held in the spring of 2024 for family and friends.
In lieu of flowers or cards, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the Cavalier Crazy Rescue in Mike’s name.
Donations can be sent directly to CCR via PayPal or Venmo
- PayPal: Click this link or by entering their email, cavaliercrazyrescue@gmail.com
- Venmo: @CavalierCrazyRescue
There is no pain you are receding
A distant ship smoke on the horizon
You are only coming through in waves
Your lips move but I can’t hear what you’re saying
When I was a child I had a fever
My hands felt just like two balloons
Now I’ve got that feeling once again
I can’t explain you would not understand
This is not how I am
I have become comfortably numb
~Pink Floyd
6 Condolences for Mike Matthews
Condolences(6)
Tricia Troberg says
November 13, 2023 at 11:56 pmWords of sympathy feel inadequate in expressing grief and sorrow for a loss so great. Sending a warm embrace and all my love to family during this sad time.
Mischelle Carter says
November 14, 2023 at 4:19 pmMy prayers are with you and the family as you cope with such a heartbreaking loss 💔
Mischelle Carter says
November 14, 2023 at 4:20 pmMy prayers are with family as you cope with such a heartbreaking loss 💔
Jana Short says
November 14, 2023 at 4:21 pmI’m deeply sorry for your loss. Mike’s passing leaves a void that words can’t fill. I’ll miss the laughter and mischief we shared as kids. However, every time I see your beautiful smile, Cassi, I’ll be reminded of him and all the unforgettable moments we had together, and the joy he brought to all of us. Warm hugs and healing to you all.
Patrice Whitelock says
November 15, 2023 at 4:12 amMike was a god friend. I groomed his dogs for years. He loved his dogs. We had a lot of great visits. He will be missed. Condolences to his daughter and family.
Paula A Herman says
November 18, 2023 at 9:20 pmJeanne, Lori and Cassi, My heart is just torn apart. I loved Mike since I was eighteen, never has anyone treated me with more respect. That was due to his awesome love for you women in his life. His smile and laughter will forever bring me joy. Thank you for sharing such a remarkable spirit. May your sadness be replaced with happiness knowing he no longer is in pain and he is always with us in spirit.
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