Matt was a 2004 graduate of Alexandria's Jefferson High School and was a four-sport athlete competing in cross country, football, basketball, and track.  Basketball was Matt's passion, starting in first grade and continuing with traveling teams in fourth grade through his senior year at Jefferson High.  Matt was also a member of the Alexandria Aces performance team in his elementary years.  Matt pursued personal wellness and fitness, weight lifting competed in triathlons, and was an excellent student. Matt's professional career was in the health and wellness field, graduating in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Exercise Science, from Minnesota State University in Moorhead.  Matt was employed by the Fargo YMCA and GNC Corporation. Most important to Matt and reflected as priorities and values in his lifestyle were: a strong Christian faith, devotion to his family and friends, respect for and always putting others before himself.  Personal character attributes included kindness, honesty, a strong work ethic, self-discipline, and a special sensitivity towards the feelings of others.

After a three-year battle with chronic Lyme disease and depression, Matt took his own life in September 2016.