Matt Durham, aka “cdguy“, my youngest brother, my only brother, died earlier today at the unreasonable age of 30.
He leaves behind a family who loved him very much, with some who wish they would have told him so much more often.
He was smart, gifted in art and music, and unfailingly loyal to those that were close to him.
He was born on Groundhog Day in 1979 in Lubbock, Texas. On that day, his older brother and his dad picked out a gift, a plush stuffed dog, from the large bin of them at his dad’s pharmacy and took it to him in the hospital. He almost didn’t survive his early days, when a medical issue initially stumped the doctors at Lubbock General. Luckily his grandfather, an immensely knowledgeable and resourceful small town doctor, was on hand and immediately diagnosed the problem, leading to a healthy baby.
He was one of the most fun, energetic kids you could meet. In his preschool years, he developed a talent for flushing his older brother’s Star Wars figures down the toilet, and could almost always be found dressed as a little super hero, with either a reversable Batman/Superman cape, or a Spiderman outfit that would stir him to tell people “I’m going to fro my web at you!”
As a kid he maintained his good cheer even when his older brother did mean older-brother things to him. To this day, that brother cringes at knowing that Matt once told a beloved elementary school teacher that the thing he most wanted in the world was for his brother to be nice to him.
He would spend long summers at his grandparent’s house on Lake LBJ, where he would swim and fish and and ski and jetski up and down the length of the lake. His skin would tan to a dark brown, his hair bleach to near blond, and the bottom of his feet would turn black from his careful avoidance of shoes. He would sit in his granddad’s lap and steer the family boat, chirping excitedly all the way. When not in motion, he would sit on the porch with his family and talk almost non-stop.
In 1989, Matt took a trip to the great Pacific Northwest with his grandparents and brother, starting in Oregon, through Washington to British Columbia, and then back south again. He insisted that they stop at every aquarium that came across their path, no matter how homely looking or disreputable it might appear. He caught enormous salmon at the mouth of the Columbia, and gazed at trees in sizes and numbers that were unthinkable to a boy from the high, dry plains of Texas. He even survived the occasional punch to the arm or verbal fight that would erupt after too much time spent in the cramped back seat of a rental car.
Matt’s brother vividly remembers when the family said goodbye to the brother in the stairwell of a hot, un-air-conditioned dorm in College Station Texas. The brother saw tears streaming down Matt’s 13 year old face, and soon found himself to be in tears too. That was the first time the brother realized that he too often took his family’s love and presence for granted.
Matt was by far the most athletic member of his family. He was successful at basketball in elementary and junior high, before his Durham height became too great a disadvantage. In high school he joined the Monterey Plainsman baseball team, coached by the legendary Bobby Moegle. Playing outfield and using his speed as a pinch runner, his team won the Texas 5A Championship in 1996.
He graduated from Texas Tech in 2002 with a degree in bio-chemistry. He had always wanted to follow in his granddad’s footsteps and become a doctor, but his grades and test scores weren’t quite enough to get him there. He worked in a Lubbock ear, nose, and throat doctor’s office for several years, eventually becoming office manager and known for keeping a busy, multi-doctor, multi-million dollar office in tight working order.
In his college years, Matt developed an unexpected artistic streak. He picked up painting and produced a series of unique, amazing portraits of friends and family. Like a lot of the best art, he gave them to his subjects as gifts, things that will be forever cherished by those who hold them.
He also had amazing music skills. Although he could not read music, he could hear anything and reproduce it on the piano or guitar. He learned entire classical piano pieces by ear and played them almost flawlessly.
In late 2006, Matt’s brother invited him to move up to Seattle and join him on a crazy adventure, to become the #2 employee of a new software start-up. It was a risky move, as Matt didn’t have a formal tech background and the two brothers had hardly spent any time together since the older one left for college fourteen years earlier. But Matt came prepackaged with some key qualities: intelligence, an amazing work ethic, eagerness to learn, and no need for fancy living.
After a visit to Seattle in February of 2007, Matt decided to take the plunge and moved into his brother’s upstairs apartment later that May. With only a few information sharing lessons and a few books, Matt quickly became an expert in the world of CSS and HTML and applied his native artistic talents to the world of computer graphics. He could solve almost any problem in the world of web-page coding, even the endlessly frustrating ones with Internet Explorer. He ended up designing every user interface used in Instivate’s family of products, with the exception of the old crusty one you’re viewing now which predated his arrival in Seattle. He and his brother worked together better than they could have ever thought, getting to know each other all over again as adults, amid two and a half years of working together in the same cramped upstairs office. His brother’s respect for his talents and dedication grew every day.
Matt’s family is still struggling to understand his sudden death, and wondering how we’re going to get by without him. He is survived by his mother Susan and father Paul, his brother Scott, his maternal grandparents “Mer & Granddad”, and his paternal grandmother.
He will be greatly missed, and will be an example to all of us that youth doesn’t ensure anything, and that it’s never too soon to tell those close to you that you love them, that they’re great, and special, and that the world would never be the same without them.
Services are not yet scheduled, but will most likely be held later in Texas.
I’m so sorry for your loss- Thanks for taking the time to compose such a loving tribute.
This is so sad. He sounds like a wonderful person and I wish I’d gotten the chance to know him. You and your family will be in my thoughts.
This is a beautiful summary of a wonderful, if short, life. My heart aches for you.
Thank you for telling us about him and your relationship with him.
It is never easy to loose someone … and never easy to loose someone suddenly … before their time. My deepest condolences are with you and your family. Your words are a moving tribute to your love for your brother. Peace to you.
Scott, i’m sorry for your loss. We’re all here to support you.
I’m so sorry to hear about your loss, Scott. Thank you for sharing your memories of him with us.
I’m very sorry and send my best wishes for peace and healing to all who love Matt.
My heart is with you and your family. Thank you for sharing your wonderful tribute with us. I believe your brother was the person that reported the daily news from the police scanner. He provided such a wonderful service to his community and I could see his sense of humor through his daily reports. This is a true loss.
I just attended a funeral for a close friend this morning, and your heartfelt eulogy for your little brother had tears streaming down my face for the second time today. I’ve felt like a close neighbor to you for a while now, Scott, after reading your many articles and stories about our shared neighborhood. I’m so sorry for your loss and my thoughts are with you and your family.
Scott, so sorry for your loss. Thanks for letting us get to know him, and you, a little through your tribute. We’ll miss his posts.
I hardly knew your brother – met him twice, I think – just mostly through reading the Scanner, but the tears are streaming down my face after reading your tribute to him. I wish you strength and peace and beautiful memories.
You must be aware of our high regard for you – if there’s any way we can help, just tell us. Take care of yourself and your family at this difficult time.
I am so very sorry, Scott, for your loss. My thoughts and warm concern are with you, Ray, and your family during this inexplicable time.
Matt was always a delight to visit with. The most recent time I saw Matt was at Grey Gallery in May, He appeared to be a date, and he was quite happy.
Thanks for sharing a part of yourself in your tribute to your brother. Please know you and your family and all who knew and cared for Matt are in the thoughts of many tonight and also in the days to come.
my sincere condolences for your loss.
Scott, my heart goes out to you and your family. Lean on each other, and hold tight to Matt’s memory. Thanks for sharing your thoughts in a compelling remembrance.
Scott – It’s a beautiful bio, I wish that I had known it earlier, and wish that I had had a chance to meet him. Our wishes and love are with you and your family.
Thank you for sharing. I wish you and your family the best in this difficult period.
Scott, even though I only met your brother once or twice (including the occasion from which the photo above was taken), I am sitting here in shock. Thank you for sharing the news and the story of his too-short life. I know you have a site community but if there is anything we can help with to pick up the slack while you take time to grieve, please let us know. Meantime, there’s a quote from a song they sing at memorial services at the church I attend now and then … “life is eternal, love is immortal, death is only a horizon” … TR
Our hearts are with you in this house and across the CD. Even though many of us had not met your brother or did not know him well he came into our lives on a regular basis and was someone we all appreciated. Please pass along our best wishes from a neighborhood who will miss him.
CDGuy, Matt, I never met you in person but I loved your posts, particularly the irreverent ones. My heart goes out to Scott and the rest of your family. So very very, heart-stopping sad. Our love to you Scott.
Scott, I echo the previous sentiments for such a heartfelt tribute to your brother. You have touched our hearts with your words. I only hope that someone will write something that nice for me one day. May God wrap you and your family in his arms and grant you peace. Sleep well Matt, you were loved.
I’m so sorry, Scott.
sorry for your loss, thank you for sharing
I am so sorry, and so shocked, to learn of your family’s tragic loss. Like many of the other commenters, I’d only met Matt a couple of times, but appreciated and looked forward to his sardonic, but sympathetic, interpretations of the often bizarre goings-on in our neighborhood.
Words fail me. Thank you for the loving tribute. Keep strong,
Andrew
Thank you for sharing so much of your brother, your family and the love you shared. Our prayers to you Scott and your family.
Nice working with you, #2. You built some wonderful things and you were pretty damn funny. Thank you and goodbye.
Scott, I am so sorry for your loss. This is terrible. When I ran in to you about a year ago and finally connected that this site was your baby…I have admired you even more. I wished there was something I can do. If there is something I can do, you have my email address. Please take care.
Pat
I’m so sorry about the death of your brother. I never met your brother, but if he is anything like you, the world is a worse place for his departure. Wishing you, his family, and your family the best.
my thoughts are with you. i did not know your brother, but truly appreciate what he did for this community. and with wit. thank you for this loving tribute. my condlences are with you and your family.
Thinking of you and your family in this difficult time.
…to you, Scott, and to your family and all who love your brother. Thank you for sharing this tribute to him.
We’re right across the street should you need anything.
Peace to you and your family, Scott. Please take care.
Thanks for sharing so much with our community. RIP, CDGuy.
Scott, What a horrible loss to you, your family, and to the entire CD. That was a very nice tribute.
I’m so sorry for your loss, Scott. Even in our fleeting interactions here on the site, your brother was clearly a smart, funny, and fun guy. Thank you for writing such a beautiful tribute to him.
as I read your lovely tribute. I am so sorry. I never met Matt and I’m sad I’ll never be able to. Thirty is so young. My deepest sympathy to family, friends and loved ones.
I am so sorry to hear about Matt. My love to you and your family.
May he rest in peace..so sorry for your loss………
Scott,
Thank you so much for sharing. I’m sorry for your loss. May your memories of Matt bring you some peace.
cdguy brought a smile to many whom he didn’t even know, while also providing a valuable service.
Thanks so much for writing about your brother, Scott. All these condolence messages are a testament to how deep his loss is for you and for our community. The CD has made us all a family and we all share in your loss.
Sorry Scott, words don’t do justice to this tragedy… Best to you and your loved ones….-A
I’m sorry for your loss. I’ve never met Matt in person, but I’ve read many of his posts here on the site. He had a fun sense of humor, I’ve enjoyed his spin on the CD events. Thank you for sharing your memories.
Scott, I am so sorry — and so moved by Matt’s story and your telling of it. The two of you created something that is such an important part of our community. I give you much gratitude for that. We will all think of Matt often.
Thank you.
Bill Zosel
While I have never had the opportunity to meet you or your brother in person, you both have felt like a part of my family through this site and I am so sorry to hear of your loss of such a talented brother. My thoughts are with you and your extended family.
Sorry to hear about your brother. We will keep you in our prayers.
This is shocking and horrible news. I’m so sorry for your loss, Scott. Like others have already said, I feel like I knew your brother a tiny bit from his postings and work on this site. The number of comments already here are part of the testament to his work and the community around him (if only virtually). Best wishes for the days, weeks, and months ahead.
-Jennie
….to hear of your loss. I am truly sorry. My heart goes out to you and your family.
my heart goes out to you, Scott…
But I’m glad he was loved, and so deeply and by so many people.
So hard to make sense of this…. Hang in there Scott. Its a big loss for this entire community. If there is anything you need we would love to give back to you.
RIP CDguy
I’m calling my brother right now.
Scott, I’m so sorry for your family’s loss. From this post, we all feel his passing, whether we met him or not.
I am so sorry about you losing your brother Scott. You two have really had such a large impact on the neighborhood in a short amount of time. My heart goes out to you as you grieve.
That was a beautiful tribute to your brother, thank you for sharing it. I will be thinking of you guys and keeping you in my prayers.
Much love-
Brooke
Scott, I came to meet Matt because of one of those mean older-brother things…only I wasn’t your brother. I was a kid who lived on the next block, and the target of a few high school kids free for spring break. Anyways, as you know, Matt and I spent a lot of time together growing up. Spending all of our summers together. Even going on one of those trips to LBJ. Picking me up every day for high school because I wasn’t old enough to drive yet. Playing lots of baseball. Living together for ahile in college. We went our different ways somewhat in the years after, but that doesn’t make me forget about all of the time we spent together growing up. He will be missed dearly. I’m sorry for you, Paul, and Susan, and hope to make any arrangements that will be made for him.
thank you for sharing this story about your brother scott and we are so sorry for your loss. you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Thank you for your post. I recently moved from the CD to Queen Anne, after being a CD resident for 5 years. I still read the Central District News daily, and your brother was a big reason for that. Thank you for your post and comments. I never met your brother, but he sounds like he was an amazing man that anyone would be lucky to call a friend. I am really sorry for your loss.
will miss your presence here cdguy.
Scott I can scarcely believe it. I wish we’d gotten to know him better.
Scott: I echo everyones’ sentiments. I am so very sorry for Matt’s passing. I enjoy the CDN every day, and you and he are a part of my life. Please hang in there and know that you have a neighborhood of support. Please take all the time you need to grieve, and know that we are all here for you. My thoughts are with you and your family. Kathleen
My condolences for your loss, Scott. You and your brother cdguy have made the central area a better place with your great Web site. Hang in there — Danny
But I loved his posts. Thank you for letting us all know, I am so sorry for your loss.
Scott, so sorry for your loss. Matt will be missed.
My condolences to your loss, Matt aka ‘cdguy’ will be missed.
Scott, It is hard to grasp this news. I don’t know how you managed to compose such a moving tribute at this time. My sympathy for your great loss.
Scott, I too am so sorry for your loss. I read CDN everyday and have come to reply on your and cdguy’s reports. You and your family are in my thoughts. Your tribute was lovely.
First, I’m really sorry to hear of your brother’s death. That you had the chance in adulthood to know him well and to love him dearly is a rare gift. May that gift somehow make the pain you feel more bearable.
Second, I want you to know how special the thing you and Matt have created has become to your neighbors, known and unknown. Typically, I view internet “communities” as quite the opposite of real community: distractions that suck people’s time and attention, detracting from genuine human interaction, generosity and caring. How many of a 1,000 Facebook friends, after all, will sacrifice for you the way true friends do?
But CD News is actually building old-fashioned community. It seems actually to be bringing neighbors together to support each other, to keep each other safer and to keep each others’ businesses healthy. Matt obviously has been a big part of this remarkable accomplishment. So, thanks to him, and to you.
As many others have said, lean on this community in any way you need. You’ve made it stronger. And we can reciprocate. Hang in there.
Scott,
I am so sorry to hear about Matt. Please know that we are thinking of you and your family.
I don’t know what to say except that I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Matt was clearly loved well during his life and will be remembered. Be strong.
Scott and family, I am so sorry for your loss. What a beautiful tribute to a brother.
Scott, we are so sorry about the sudden loss of your brother. Please know that Tiffany, Jacob and I are thinking about you. Our deepest condolences go out to you and your family.
Scott and family,
So sorry for your loss.
Scott,
I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you for writing such a moving and thoughtful tribute. I echo what everyone else has said about the importance of your work and your brother’s work for this community.
Thank you for bringing your cdguy to Seattle. Together you have made a unique and irreplaceable contribution to the community. He will be missed. Scott, our thoughts are with you and your family.
Please take care of yourselves.
Joanna
As a regular lurker, I appreciate you and your brother’s time and efforts spent on helping to keep this and many other neighborhoods informed.
I’m very sorry to hear of your loss.
CDN won’t be the same.
:(
Scott, thank you for sharing that beautiful story. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I hope that Matt knew what a great service he did for our community.
Scott, I’m so sorry about this. Your brother sounds like an incredible person. What a loss. Hang in there.
Scott, I’m so very sorry about this. Matt was a great human being, and I can’t imagine what you’re feeling right now or how your were able to write this. Our whole CDN community has been greatly enriched by cdguy/Matt, and we will all miss him. xoxo Anita
Sorry Scott, I never met Matt but it is obvious that he was a special person in your life. Your eloquent writing brought tears to my eyes, nobody could ask for a better farewell. Know that he contributed greatly to my life with his posts and contributions to this great resource. My dearest condolences.
Scott, I am really sorry for your loss.
Scott,
So sorry to hear about your brother. I pray that God will bring you and your family peace in the days ahead. Thank you for sharing your memories of him.
Michelle
Very sad news, I am so sorry to hear. My condolences to Scott and Ray and your family.
I am happy that I got to know Matt at least a little through the dozen or so times we all hung out. I was always really impressed by his move to Seattle and the skills he developed working with Scott on Neighborlogs.
But, I think I mostly knew Matt through his sense of humor–we had a lot of jokes when we got together, and he’d always find very funny ways to suddenly bring up a new riff on my comment that Madison Valley was Seattle’s “Lampshade District.” And, his in-person jokes about the Lavender Spa is a Brothel were memorably, totally hilarious.
He obviously took a totally professional and restrained approach to his role as “cdguy” on the site, but I loved finding those little extra phrases in his CDNews Police Scanner reports, through which he couldn’t help but inject a little of his trademark humor, like this one from last week:
11:55AM – Washington Park Arboretum – Eye Sore – Several nude sunbathers
It’s so sad to know that there won’t be more times hanging out or more little funny phrases of his on CDN to look forward to. That report will be the last time we “hung out,” virtually, through a couple comments.
Fortunately, it was a little virtual get together over another little joke — Matt’s humor again, FTW!
My thoughts are with you and your family. May you take comfort in each other during this extremely difficult time..
I was thinking about rounding up some of his quips but they’re funnier in the flow. Still waiting for the punchline on this news item. Wish there was one.
Scott,
We never were able to meet your brother, but your parents have shared stories with us about you and Matt. They adore both of you. Hold them tight, hug them tight and ask for God’s strength. What a great testimony about Matt. You were blessed to have such a great brother. God Bless You!
Scott, I am so sorry about the loss of your brother. Memories are forever.
My deepest sympathies for your loss. He gave much to this community.
“let’s dance in style, lets dance for a while
heaven can wait we’re only watching the skies
hoping for the best but expecting the worst
are you going to drop the bomb or not?
let us die young or let us live forever
we don’t have the power but we never say never
sitting in a sandpit, life is a short trip
the music’s for the sad men
can you imagine when this race is won
turn our golden faces into the sun
praising our leaders we’re getting in tune
the music’s played by the madmen
forever young, i want to be forever young
do you really want to live forever, forever and ever
some are like water, some are like the heat
some are a melody and some are the beat
sooner or later they all will be gone
why don’t they stay young
it’s so hard to get old without a cause
i don’t want to perish like a fading horse
youth is like diamonds in the sun
and dimonds are forever
so many adventures couldn’t happen today
so many songs we forgot to play
so many dreams are swinging out of the blue
we let them come true”
Alpheville Music
I’m sharing this poem with the Neighborlogs community. I’m a recent part of this conversation and regret that I did not get to learn more deeply of Matt’s gifts.
Remembrance
By Michelle Ferrier
Every morning, when I reach for my cup,
To fill with hot cocoa or tea
I see your favorite mug, unused
Never again to be touched to human lips
And I cry
Your sweater
Which accidentally shrunk in the wash
I wear
Hoping to bring you closer to me
But your smell is gone
Washed away
And I cry
My father died so many yesterdays ago
But not long enough to ease the pain of today
Or change the uncertainty of tomorrow
But I remember
For in time
The searing flames of pain
Will subside
Into glowing embers of memory
Upon which, I can warm my hands
When I want to reach out and touch you
But never again to burn
Peace.
Wow, 30 is way too young. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Matt was a talented tech with a admiral passion for his craft. He will be missed by all of us in the newspaper business.
Matt was my best friend since we were in 7th grade. We were friends, teammeates and roommates throughout our relationahip. We took drivers ed together and he was my first roommate in college. Even after I moved away he kept my seat on the couch reserved and the door was always open to me. I most recently saw Matt when I visited him at the lakehouse two weekends ago. I was so happy to see him and even though we had not seen each other in two years it was if no time had passed, he commented that it was funny that we had not hung out in person in so long but our friendship remained static. Matt was the best friend anyone could ask for. He was honest, loyal and always there for me. Without him and his friendship I would not have personally overcome some of the most difficult challenges I faced in my life. He was always available to listen, to reflect and offer his advice. He was such a wonderful listener and would offer his ear for as long as requested. He was the funniest person I have ever known even though his humor could be as dry as the climate of our hometown. I considered Matt to be my brother and he allowed me to know what true friendship was. He made me a better person and without his friendship I would not be the man I am today. He allowed me to be an extended part of his family and vice versus. In his last e-mail to me he wrote that he hoped I knew I was a part of his family too. I want his family to know there could be no higher honor for me and I will honor and cherish the years I got to spend with Matt as my best friend. I am so sorry for your family’s loss and may the Good Lord look over your family and may his memory be blessed.
I appreciated the tribute you wrote for him, even though I’ve never met him or you.
I am so sorry for you and your family’s loss – Matt’s talents will be missed in the Neighborlogs community
Scott, There was a rush of tremendous sorrow when I was told about Matt’s death.
Words sound so contrite, but I need to try and express to you how much joy you boys gave me on those hot July 4th afternoons as you hurled water balloons at the passing boats on Lake LBJ. I have wondered about you both and have often asked about you. Matt was such a golden boy.— love to you, Aunt Cynthia
Scott-
I am so sorry for you and your family’s loss. The news today was absolutely heartwrenching. Though I had lost touch with Matt since he had moved to Seattle, I have never once forgotten all the crazy and fun times we have had over the past years since high school. He was so incredibly unique and I will miss him dearly.
So, so sorry to hear about this huge and sudden loss. I ache for you and your family.
I am so sorry for your unfathomable loss. My condolences to you and your family.
Words are never adequate to sorrow, but I’m really sorry for your loss. Your brother sounds like a hell of a guy.
From your family back in Texas we are with you in spirit and praying for all of you. We love you
Matt was so much a part of this site. I’m sorry he’s not able to see how much everyone appreciated him, but I’m sure he knew how much you loved him. It comes through loud and clear in your tribute.
Scott,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Thank you for writing about him. I loved reading and
learning more about Matt. We love you and are praying for you and your parents during this
time.
What a wonderful tribute. I feel like I knew Matt now, if only a little bit, even though I never actually met him. I’m so sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your loved ones.
It really sucks. Can we help with anything?
Scott, we are shocked and deeply saddened to lose Matt. Your post brought back so many memories of our childhoods together. You and your wonderful family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Matt was a wonderful friend to my son, David. We lived on the next block from Matt’s family. I drove Matt home from elementary school every day for years. He was such a joy to be around and a very good friend to David, even though he was a year younger than Matt. He always had good manners and Matt was funny. I remember one day after school they were looking for something to eat (as they often did) and Matt opened the cabinet and took something out and ate it. About that time we realized he was eating a dog treat. When we told him what he was eating, he just laughed and said it was pretty tasty. A couple of years ago, we came home to find Matt at our house visiting with David. We had not seen Matt since he had grown his hair long. We did not recognize him right away. He really enjoyed that. We will miss Matt very much. Your whole family will be in our prayers.
Scott, you and your family have my heartfelt condolences for your loss. What a beautiful, loving, and moving tribute you wrote to your brother. I am so sorry to learn of this tragedy in your family. Matt/cdguy, we are grateful for your many contributions to the community, and we mourn your loss. I wish I’d had the opportunity to know you in person.
Scott, I am deeply saddned by the loss of Matt. I remember all the Sunday lunches we would all spend together, the birthday parties we all attended, and a variety of other situations that we all shared. I especially remember that Matt enjoyed the chicken strips and cottage fries at Harrigan’s. Our families have been friends for decades and through all the time we have shared with them I feel like I can call you and Matt both friends too. Please let us know if we can do anything because I know you would do the same for us. We love you all.
The McCormick’s
Scott, it has been far too long; Amy just let me know about this and I was so sad to hear the news. All the best to you and your family.
Scott,
You would probably not know us, but we love your parents dearly. We go to FBC in Lubbock. Our daughter, who was Matt’s age, died 2 years ago. It was far too soon for both of them. Thank you for sharing your tribute. We are anxious to put our arms around your mom and dad.
Cecil and Margaret Evans
Dear Scott
Thank you for taking the time to collect your thoughts and for writing the beautiful tribute to Matt. What a wonderful store of memories you stirred in us as you recalled your childhood memories of Matt. What great times you and Joey had after school and in the summers. You were like one of our own. I know at times the little ones, Matt and Nathan, were tiny thorns of contention especially as you created those magnificant tunnels in our yard to house your star wars figues in play. You also tied strings on the figures and flushed them down our toilets pulling them back before they drown, and strung strings from the fense post for the figures to zip line to the ground. You wee ones also cut our cable lines in the proces, but that was one of the costs of play in those days which kids today don’t seem to know anymore. Joey loved you so much and I am forever richer for our lives and families to have crossed paths. I cherish the memories of us taking you guys to Camp Champions and staying at your grandparents in Marble Falls. Thank you for the memories of Matt. I know this is an incredibly difficult time for you, Paul, and Susan and your family and friends. We will miss Matt greatly, but we will always have the fond memories that will bring smiles as we remember and cherish those memories. I pray God will hold you close and bring you peace. We only wish we had known Matt as an adult and as the fine young man he was. He is precious to many. You reached out to Matt, your little brother, and fostered and nutured that relationship. What a blessing to you both. God bless.
I am so, so sorry. Words fail me, luckily they didn’t fail you! It’s an honor to read this and get to know a little about what we have all truly lost. Thanks so much for sharing this with us.
Sorry for your loss, Scott. And thank you for posting.
i remember seeing your brother for the first time at an event in Oct 2007 and wondering who the guy was taking notes and wearing the Gilligan hat. he always took notes with a quiet earnestness befitting a reporter, which I appreciated.
our prayers are with you and your family.
Scott, I am truly sad to hear about this loss for you, Paul and Susan. I grew up with Matt at FBC and developed a great relationship him through those years. I remember Matt and I always cutting up during Sunday School and occasionally getting in trouble! Fun years at FBC!
I know that my mom will be there for your parents when they get back to Lubbock with her arms opened wide. God will be their for you and your family through this difficult time.
Patrick, Michael and Susie Montoya
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I am truly sorry for your loss.
Scott, I’m your long-lost neighbor from 92nd street, and when my mom called me with the news, I couldn’t believe it. I hadn’t seen either of you in ages, but your mom and dad had kept us up to date on you both as my own kids have grown. Your mom even had my son in first grade a couple of years ago, and I remember looking fondly at all the pictures of you and Matt she had in her room as she changed them out occasionally. I still remember all the days growing up shooting hoops with Matt (him shooting, me trying and failing) in our driveways together, or riding bikes and trying to be as cool as he was with all the tricks he could on his bike. I remember how awesome it was in high school when the team won the state championship, and even later, how proud you all were when he made the team at Tech for a while. Again, I know I haven’t seen either of you in so long, but I am so saddened by this sudden end to Matt’s life here with us. I know he loved you, loved all of his family, and I will be praying for you all as you face the next difficult days and decisions moving through this time. Your tribute to him was beautiful, very touching, and just like the kid I remember from growing up. Thanks for posting this.
Amanda (Mandy) Huckabee Zent
There are no words. This sucks. 30 is completely unreasonable. I’m trying not to cry but I’m also feeling angry at the unfairness. I didn’t know him but I know loss and I’m so sorry you do too.
scott, you, paul and susan are in mine and gary’s thoughts and prayers.
Scott,
I have met many people in the neighborhood who have expressed how great this blog is. It is fantastic that you were able to create and continue this with your brother and will be able to have a tangible something to remember and dedicate to a true friend! Well wishes for you and family and friends…
Scott- I am so grateful to have the opportunity to read your tribute to Matt. I have spent much of the last two days thinking and praying for your family. I work with your mom and care so much for her. I will pray for all of you. God bless you and thank you for such a loving memory.
Mimi Vandewege
Oh Scott. I am so sorry for your loss. I never met Matt, but I did so appreciate the wry humor of cdguy. I haven’t been on for a couple of days and am just in awe of your loving story of your little brother. Take care of yourself and your family. You are in my thoughts. Kathryn
Dear Scott, As a longtime resident of the CD I have been following your site for a while. I am so sorry for your loss. I send you my most heartfelt wish for your comfort at this very challenging time. Thank you for your great post in describing your brother. My husband lost his brother not two years ago and we wish that no one should have to bear such a challenge. We wish and your family support and comfort in each other as you remember Matt. We say a prayer.
As a team mate and a friend you could only admire how Matt always gave his all on the field. You could look forward to seeing him and to just have a good time during those dog days. I’m still in disbelief. My prayers are with , your family, and all those who knew you.
DDP
Scott,
I am your mother’s first cousin. I have not seen you in many years and I believe the last time was when you were a small boy of 4 or 5. I spent many happy Christmas Days with your Grandparents, mother and uncle in Memphis as a small child and I am deeply sadden to hear about Matt and am very moved by this tribute you have written about him. I wish there were words that could express my sympathy and provide some comfort to you and your family. Take good care of yourself and your family.
Sincerely,
Gary Belk
I never met Matt in person, but I talked to him a few times on the phone and via e-mail. He was always so nice and patient and willing to help me, even if I had a silly question. The other posts are true, this tribute makes a person feel as though they knew him, whether they had met him or not. So sorry for your loss and your family is in my thoughts.
Scott,
After hearing the news of Matt’s death both Ann and I literally cried wishing we had spent more time with you both. I think you know how much both you and Matt met to us, but I am so sorry that we did not spend as much time as we should have. I have been praying everyday and night for Paul, Susan and you that the strength you get through God will help all of you get through this tragic loss. Scott, always remember that Anna and I love you.
Paul, Susan and Scott — there are no words that can fill your empty-lonely feelings but you will eventually feel the prayers of all who know and love you. Matt was blessed to share his short life with a family that unconditionally loved him, played with him, shared with him, watched him grow. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
I’ve never had the pleasure of meeting either you or your brother. But I did hear alot of nice things about you both from Dee, Fred, Jaime, and Jaci. Our prayers go out to you all with the hope that time will heal your pain and your memories of happier times together will stay with you forever.
Lee Jones, Aunt Dee’s sister
Scott and Matt are my cousins and regrettably I did not have the opportunity to get to know them as well as I would have liked as we grew up hundreds of miles apart. The time we did spend together, though, I do have very fun memories of. I very much appreciate the beautiful tribute that was written by Scott. I feel as though I know Matt a little better now. One of the fondest memories of Matt is when at a gathering after grandpa’s funeral, we were at Matt’s house and people had brought over food. Matt was sitting on the counter next to the stove where a cassarole of macaroni and cheese was keeping warm, well apparently it got a little too warm and the lid popped. Well, it scared Matt so much that he took a flying leap off that counter and yelled “I didn’t do it”. And there was that one time that Matt and I were jumping on his bed (Sorry Susan ;)). Scott, thank you so much for that tribute, I want you to know that you, Paul and Susan are in my thoughts and prayers daily. I am taking comfort knowing that grandpa is taking care of Matt now and they are both watching over us. Please know that you are so very loved in this family. Love you, Jaci
note of condolence, Scott. It’s gut-wrenching and heart-rending to lose someone so close. The thoughts of many are with you and your family, and I hope that eases the pain just a little bit. Good luck getting thru these difficult times, and thanks for all the good work you –and Matt– did for the site and our community.
You will be in our prayers during this difficult time. You wrote a wonderful tribute to Matt he would be proud. I hope to see more of you & the family in the future. Peace be with you.
Hey Scott. I am so sorry for your loss. Matt was a great and gifted person. I got to know him working for your dad in the pharmacy. He was one of the good guys. I had not seen him or talked to him since he left for Seattle. Your family is very special to me. Matt will be missed. My prayers are with you and your parents.
Scott I am so sorry to hear about Matt. Reading your tribute about him brought back lots of good memories. You and your parents are in all our prayers here in Lubbock.
Trey Aguilar
Scott, I am the wife of one of the doctors Matt worked with in Lubbock. I just wanted to thank you for your loving tribute to Matt, as it gives us a greater sense of connection during this time of loss. Matt has always been deeply respected and loved by all of those in the office. He was our baby, as we saw him grow from a college student into a wonderful young man. Our hearts ache for you and your parents, and we will be keeping you close in prayer.
Scott, Susan and Paul, I am here for you all and love you all. Like Jaci, I didn’t know Matt well, we lived hundreds of miles away. But my prayers are with you all now and we can all take solace in the fact that he’s in a wonderful place, and watching over us all. Love you all.
I am so sorry for your loss. My son, Michael Dixon,and Matt used to play together as friends back in Memphis Texas many years ago. They caught up with each other again in college at Texas Tech in Lubbock and had the pleasure of being “lab’ partners in Chemistry.
I know he will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. The tribute by Scott is remarkable and it shows what a wonderful and caring person Matt really was and just how much is is loved by his family. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten.
My sympathy is with all Matt’s family. May you all find never ending strengh in our Lord.
Dana l Troyer
I vividly remember your brother and I trying to make a music video to “Welcome to the Jungle in the 4th or 5th grade. We were not successful at video making and soon moved on to watching YO MTV Raps and chasing each other around the house with belts. Matt was a good a friend and a better person, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Thank your for posting this tribute of Matt. He was truly one of the most talented and nicest guys. My prayers are with you and your family.
Scott, I am so sorry to learn this shocking news. You and Matt have made such a wonderful difference in our community. He is and will be greatly missed. I will especially miss his wry humor in the scanner logs, including ‘shenanigans’, ‘eyesore’ and the occasional irreverent, not-PC description.
What a wonderful tribute you wrote. Thanks for sharing Matt with us. You and your family are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. Take care.
What a difficult time. It feels totally unfair when death comes suddenly. My grandmother died instantly at a young age, due to a clot in her brain. I still experience moments of wanting to call her up, as if she’s still just a phone call away. Thank you for telling the story of your brother’s life. Maybe that’s the best response to the frustration of grief– writing down your memories and remembering what that person taught you.
My deepest sympathies go to you. Take care of yourself.
Best,
Colleen
I only knew Matt through passing when he worked at the ENT office in Lubbock. He was always kind and said hello every time I saw him. I also lost a brother at a very young age, you are in my thoughts.
I’m Matt’s dad. What a tribute my son Scott paid to his brother!!! And how touched their mother and I have been by all of your notes of sympathy, encouragement, and how touched you were by Scott’s words, and Matt’s effect on so many lives that we never knew. The shock is still fresh to his mother, brother and me, yet your words of kindness have been a help during this most difficult of times. Matt was special person, yes his humor would always keep us laughing and insightful to his personality. His family will eventually be better, yet we will never be well,for our hearts are broken. God will pick up the broken pieces, and heal our hearts, but one piece will always be missing, that’s where Matt would be. But God allowed us to have 30 years with our precious Matt, 30 years filled with memories that time will never dull. To all of you– a big thankyou for your concern, and prayers. God, even today, is great, and His grace is immeasureable—-PAUL
How inadequate are words to express my feelings of sadness over Matt’s death! Matt played high school baseball & was friends with my son,Brian Schmitt.May the memory of this loss soon give way to all the good memories you have stored up,and may the goodness Matt lavished on his friends and loved ones be multiplied in the lives of those he’s left behind.
I’m thinking of you & your family, and hope you’ll find a small measure of comfort in knowing there are many people who loved Matt.
My prayers & thoughts are with y’all,
Shelley Schmitt Hicks
I am Scott and Matt’s very proud mother. I am so very proud of our oldest son Scott who wrote so eloquently about his beloved brother and friend. No little brother could have had a better big brother. Thanks to each of you who told a story or offered support, love and prayers. I was so pleased to learn how many people got to experience the humor that runs deeply through Scott, Matt and their dad, Paul. Please keep our family in your hearts and especially remember Scott as he carries on what he and Matt started together and put so much of their lives into. It will be very hard for Scott, but he is very brave and very capable and he’ll know Matt is loving him through everyday.
Scott – I have only met you a couple of times but I feel the loss of your brother through our mutual friends J & A and L & S. I am so sorry for your loss and my heart goes out to you!
Matt and I became close when we pledged the same fraternity at Tech. We had a lot of good times together during our pledgeship, and I had hoped to reconnect with him someday. I’m sorry for your loss and will be praying for your family.
Scott, Paul, and Susan – I will always have such fond memories of Matt even at such a young age. He was always unique :) We had the best of times as kids and I’ll always cherish those memories of backyard play and summers at the lakes. I too remember the Spidey! My most sincere condolences to you guys, I’ll be thinking about ya’ll.
I knew Matt since we were in elementary school. I have to admit, he was my first crush. Even at a young age, he had a confidence about him that was quiet and strong. It was fun to grow up together, just a few streets over from one another, but it wasn’t until high school that we became closer. That’s when I got to know how smart and funny Matt was. I loved his sarcasm and intellect. He was/is a precious, kind soul that was wiser than his years. I’m so sorry for your family and all of Matt’s friends. I still have a lump in my throat that emerges each time I read this tribute page. Thank you, Scott, for writing such a beautiful remembrance of Matt.
Scott, I am so sorry for your loss. What beautiful memories you have shared with everyone. I don’t know if you remember me, but we were next door neighbors on 79th. I have very fond memories of your family, and still see your dad from time to time. God Bless, you are in my prayers- Lori
What a beautiful tribute, Scott. You may not remember me, but I do remember you and Matt and your family, as we lived down the street from you on 79th Street when you and Matt were younger. You both were such good kids — and you both have made a difference. You brought tears to my eyes with this loving tribute to Matt and to your family. I have shared this with Suzy and Geoff and they send their love as well. Please know that you and your mom and dad are in my prayers. God be with you.
I remember trying to write my father’s; he was 64, so it was hard to get everything in without taking too much time. But it was harder still to stay focused on the keyboard and screen through the tears and the heartache.
You guys did something amazing together, Scott, and I am grateful as I know we all are for all you’ve brought to the neighborhood. I hope this site continues to be a lasting tribute to your brother.
John
24th & Spring
Scott –
I am broken hearted for you and your family. I will be praying for peace and comfort for you all. Your words about Matt are absolutely beautiful.
Scott, that was so heartfelt and touching. I haven’t spoken to you in so many years, will never forget our prom date Junior year. You are such a great person and I know your brother meant the world to you. Thank you for sharing such a wonderful tribute w/everyone. Praying for you….Heather
Phil saw his shadow today, so time for more cold weather.