Matthew Ryan Skinner
"What's next?
There's gotta be something more than this.
Trust me, I'm still with you somewhere.
I just wish it were here."
Obituary
Matthew Ryan Skinner
age 42,
Matthew passed away peacefully on February 18, 2025 in Vancouver General Hospital after a brief illness. During his time in hospital Matt was surrounded by the love of his partner Petra, his father and brother, among other family members and close friends. Many other family members throughout the country sent their love as well.
In addition to his parents Don and Linda, Matt is survived by the love of his life, Petra Jurcak and beloved dogs Shabdis and Maya whom he rescued from Iran.
Matt is also survived by his younger brother Sandy (Alexander), his wife, Jessica, and their children Isaiah, Jackson and Jordan.
His niece and nephews adore their uncle Matt. They have many wonderful memories of adventures with him and they will love him endlessly.
Matt was born on August 19, 1982 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. As the first born child of Donald and Linda (Matthews) Skinner, he was a treasure they had waited many years for.
His childhood was spent playing with neighborhood friends, being on his bike in Shubie park, and dismantling electronics to understand the inner workings.
Matt Graduated from Prince Andrew high school in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia and then the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design in Halifax. Following graduation, Matt moved to Vancouver in an old Isuzu Trooper that he had totally rebuilt and outfitted himself.
Matt was an integral part of the team at PJS Systems in Vancouver as an audio visual Systems Designer and before that as Head
A/V Technician at Emily Carr University of Art and Design. As was the case with all things Matt did, he worked to become extremely knowledgeable in his field and quickly became an indispensable part of all teams he was a part of.
He was always a student of the arts, loved photography, played many different instruments and wrote music in a multitude of different musical endeavours. Most recently with his band Ellk.
Matthew never met a stranger he couldn’t connect with. You didn’t have to spend very long with him to realize he had warmth and compassion for all, integrity, and a zest for life. He lived freely and unabashedly.
Matt was an adventurer; a woodsman, and a gardener. He loved camping and travelling to remote locales on his dual sport motorcycle. These were pleasures he shared with Petra and with many friends, especially his beloved adventuring group The Dirtbags.
Matt could build, fix, grow or invent anything. His keen mind, a willingness to try new challenges, and an emboldened passion for helping people was the very essence of his life.
Petra; Matt’s parents; Sandy and Jessica; Isaiah, Jackson and Jordan will love and miss him forever but are also thankful to have shared his life with him.
The family would like to thank everyone who sent condolences, provided support and shared love through this difficult time.
In lieu of donations please follow this link to a web page created by Matt’s beloved and cherished friends.
https://gofund.me/10302f49
Gallery
Videos
Memory wall- please share
March 20, 2025
2
I was honoured to meet Matt in 2018 through PJS’s work with the VGH Simulation Centre. From the start, I was struck by his ability to think outside the box, always finding the best solutions and breaking things down into simple ABCs so I could understand.
I loved whenever he would pop into the Centre or join a Zoom call—our conversations always seemed to find their way to dogs. It was such a joy to hear him share Shabdiz’s journey—the excitement, the waiting, the arrival, and all the ongoing adventures. One of my favourite moments was finishing our Zoom calls with Shabdiz on Matt’s lap and Yoki on mine.
I miss him deeply—his kindness, curiosity, and our chats about his adventures, explorations, and bike rides. I especially miss those wonderful conversations where we’d brainstorm the perfect place for me to retire in BC - somewhere with a little land, cool weather, and plenty of space for my dogos and catos.
He left a lasting mark, and I will always cherish these memories. ❤️
I loved whenever he would pop into the Centre or join a Zoom call—our conversations always seemed to find their way to dogs. It was such a joy to hear him share Shabdiz’s journey—the excitement, the waiting, the arrival, and all the ongoing adventures. One of my favourite moments was finishing our Zoom calls with Shabdiz on Matt’s lap and Yoki on mine.
I miss him deeply—his kindness, curiosity, and our chats about his adventures, explorations, and bike rides. I especially miss those wonderful conversations where we’d brainstorm the perfect place for me to retire in BC - somewhere with a little land, cool weather, and plenty of space for my dogos and catos.
He left a lasting mark, and I will always cherish these memories. ❤️
March 12, 2025
3
Matt and I grew closer adventuring on two wheels. Some of my fondest memories were made on these "Dirtbag" motorcycle trips. My favorite memory featuring Skinner was in Bamfield one summer. We converged at Mark's Cabin and decided to forage for the delicious crabs of the pacific: Red rock crabs and Dungeness. This particular foraging technique required at a minimum: one canoe, one paddle, one large net, and two people each with a valid tidal fishing license. The team of two fill two roles: the hunter and the navigator. The hunter, armed with the net, is positioned at the bow of the canoe. The hunter is responsible for scanning the sea floor for these cleverly camouflaged crustaceans and reporting their location to the Navigator. The Navigator, skilled with a paddle, must position the hunter within striking distance whilst taking into consideration the sun’s glare, depths, and vengeful claws of crabs already onboard. Matt and I were partnered up. Those poor crabs never had a chance against us! I knew that from the moment we teamed up. We communicated with deadly efficacy and the bounty speak for themselves.
I will miss you, Matt. Thank you for everything.
Rest in peace, my dear friend.
I will miss you, Matt. Thank you for everything.
Rest in peace, my dear friend.
March 3, 2025
3
Matt was a big reason I felt welcome when I first joined PJS. Meetings with Matt were my favorite for a few reasons: He had an extensive knowledge of audio-visual systems and was patient in getting the rest of us up to speed, his dogs might make a guest appearance and it was always easy to chat after meetings about music, guitars, lesser- known British comedy TV, cool spots in BC to explore, anything really.
At our last company Christmas party I introduced Matt to my wife as our 'resident AV genius'. He chuckled with genuine humility indicating he was much more than just a genius. He made so many feel heard and special. Throughout my years in our industry I have never had so many clients mention someone by name with such fondness.
One project in particular was proving difficult to finish off. Matt suggested we use an automated voice to play the emergency evacuation messages at a power plant. When the quality was not up to standard Matt recorded his own voice instead to get the job done. It makes me happy to know that if emergency happens at this location it will be Matt's calm and reassuring voice guiding people to safety.
I will miss Matt and I will grieve our friendship that would have continued to grow. In his honor I will try to be more patient, play more guitar and explore more of beautiful BC.
Rest in peace and rock out when you can buddy.
At our last company Christmas party I introduced Matt to my wife as our 'resident AV genius'. He chuckled with genuine humility indicating he was much more than just a genius. He made so many feel heard and special. Throughout my years in our industry I have never had so many clients mention someone by name with such fondness.
One project in particular was proving difficult to finish off. Matt suggested we use an automated voice to play the emergency evacuation messages at a power plant. When the quality was not up to standard Matt recorded his own voice instead to get the job done. It makes me happy to know that if emergency happens at this location it will be Matt's calm and reassuring voice guiding people to safety.
I will miss Matt and I will grieve our friendship that would have continued to grow. In his honor I will try to be more patient, play more guitar and explore more of beautiful BC.
Rest in peace and rock out when you can buddy.
February 27, 2025
3
Matt,
When you were born I was 12, and you were one of the little cousins. I went off to university when you were only 5. That meant that our time together during your early years was limited.
Yet I am so grateful to have re-discovered the wonderful person that you were when we spent time together as adults. I am so very impressed by how you lived your life, by your principles. You thought about what brought you joy and the ethical world you wanted to live in, and you went out to find and create them. This included motorcycle and 4WD adventures, the rescue dogs, the hunting, living with collaborative housemates, your political principles, hugs and your choice of the west coast vibe.
You acknowledged and uplifted others of all ages, with a humility about yourself and a deep understanding of the messiness and beauty of our human condition.
It was fun to see you delight in life, such as when you rebuilt our grandfather’s gun and sent videos of it back in action, with quite the kick! I know Dad (Wally) enjoyed seeing that.
I wanted to spend so much more time with you. I am one of the many who are heartbroken.
With love forever,
February 27, 2025
1
I had the pleasure of getting to know Matt when he helped install a video sound system from PJS a few years ago. We did numerous zoom calls, he visited the church to troubleshoot issues and even came for an entire service to help us figure out the issues. He was always willing to take a call or text if we questions early on.
I was shocked today to hear of his passing and send condolences to his family and his work family. Life gone too soon!
I was shocked today to hear of his passing and send condolences to his family and his work family. Life gone too soon!
February 25, 2025
1
I went to high school with Matt. After moving to Dartmouth from Shelburne in 1997, I started grade ten at Prince Andrew High School. I didn’t know anyone, and wasn’t great at meeting people. I had a class with Matt- production tech. He took me under his wing immediately and was the only reason I got through that class I’m sure! He was always such a kind guy, and a gentle presence. Very sorry to his friends and family for this loss.
February 25, 2025
1
I have been one of the fortunate few to have shared some adventures with Matt and the Dirtbags over the years. From the first time meeting Matt, I was always in awe of his riding skills and courage to attempt rides that I could not imagine doing myself. But what was greater than Matt's riding skills was his giant heart and ingenuity.
A few years back on a trip to the northern tip of Vancouver Island, I was lagging behind and my bike broke down on the beach before making it to camp. I thought that was the end of my adventure. It was late but the "recovery team" came back to check on me, lead by the good Dr.Z as he was fondly known in our group. Assisted by a cellphone light and his headlamp, the doctor took only a few minutes to diagnose the problem and quickly addressed the issue. It was amazing to watch the genius at work as many of us have witnessed in the past. I know my story is not unique and that speaks to Matt's genuine caring nature. He didn't have to come back but he was always there to bail us out.
He touched the hearts of everyone he met and I will truly miss his smile and laughter. Love you Brother. Ride in Peace Dr.Z
A few years back on a trip to the northern tip of Vancouver Island, I was lagging behind and my bike broke down on the beach before making it to camp. I thought that was the end of my adventure. It was late but the "recovery team" came back to check on me, lead by the good Dr.Z as he was fondly known in our group. Assisted by a cellphone light and his headlamp, the doctor took only a few minutes to diagnose the problem and quickly addressed the issue. It was amazing to watch the genius at work as many of us have witnessed in the past. I know my story is not unique and that speaks to Matt's genuine caring nature. He didn't have to come back but he was always there to bail us out.
He touched the hearts of everyone he met and I will truly miss his smile and laughter. Love you Brother. Ride in Peace Dr.Z
February 24, 2025
1
Matt was a part of so many of my fondest memories growing up. (Band trips, Parties, Proms, Graduations)
He was such a wonderful friend who I will always cherish.
Don and Linda thank you for raising such a wonderful person who has brought so much joy to others. Sending love to you, Sandy, Petra and the rest of Matt’s family and friends who loved him so dearly.
He was such a wonderful friend who I will always cherish.
Don and Linda thank you for raising such a wonderful person who has brought so much joy to others. Sending love to you, Sandy, Petra and the rest of Matt’s family and friends who loved him so dearly.
February 24, 2025
1
I've only known Matt for a few months, but in that short time, he was incredibly talented, funny, and always a bright presence in every conversation. Thank you for being you, Matt. I will miss you dearly. Rest well, my friend.
February 24, 2025
3
Every time I saw Matt’s mischievous grin across the office, I knew there was going to be a great story to go with it. As he told it, his infectious laugh would draw others in, and by the end of the conversation, everyone’s day had gotten better. And that was a typical day with Matt.
There were two types of problems Matt would face on a given project. The type he already knew how to fix, and the type he’d just figure out. He had a rare intuition when it came to problem-solving; the type that you’re born with, and then nurture with a lifetime of taking things apart, and putting them back together again.
It says a lot about the kind of guy Matt is, that when my anxious dog came with me to the office, Matt was one of the few he would go right up to. His love of dogs, like his love of life, shone brightly, and despite leaving us too soon, I take some solace in knowing that he lived a fuller life than many others ever will.
Rest in peace, buddy. It was a privilege knowing you, and when my turn comes, I’ll look forward to seeing that mischievous grin again.
There were two types of problems Matt would face on a given project. The type he already knew how to fix, and the type he’d just figure out. He had a rare intuition when it came to problem-solving; the type that you’re born with, and then nurture with a lifetime of taking things apart, and putting them back together again.
It says a lot about the kind of guy Matt is, that when my anxious dog came with me to the office, Matt was one of the few he would go right up to. His love of dogs, like his love of life, shone brightly, and despite leaving us too soon, I take some solace in knowing that he lived a fuller life than many others ever will.
Rest in peace, buddy. It was a privilege knowing you, and when my turn comes, I’ll look forward to seeing that mischievous grin again.
February 23, 2025
2
I was lucky enough to apply to a craigslist add for a room to rent with Matt & Jebb, from being complete strangers Matt quickly made me feel welcomed and became a good friend over the years I lived with him. Even after I moved out we still kept in touch and I had a good amount of texts with him asking "Hey Matt, how do I fix this?". I was astonished by his knowledge of anything and everything as well as his patience to explain how it works. There really wasn't anything he couldn't do or figure out how to do. He was a vibrant member of many communities and connected with so many people. A true gem of a human, and a friend I will truly miss. you lived every year to the fullest, Rest easy buddy.
February 23, 2025
1
My memories of Matt predate many of those shared here, as Matthew was a friend of my two sons when all three were teenagers. A mother's perspective is love driven, wanting individuals in their children's lives who are kind, interesting, intelligent, and fun. Matt was all of that and more; I loved when he (and usually, Ryan) were in our home. I have a mental image of Matt hovering in the area of the kitchen, all long arms and legs, and a beautiful smile. I remember his warmth, gentleness and great sense of humour. I think of him with a smile, and an aching heart. My sincere sympathy to Petra, to Linda and Don, to Sandy and family, to all who loved him.
February 23, 2025
1
Matt shared a little piece of his time on earth with me in the summer of 2002, where we were both camp counsellors at Tim Horton Children’s Foundation Camp Kentahten in Campbellsville Kentucky. I met my wife Gill and my best friend Kris that same summer, and there are many of us that have stayed in touch over the years and would say that summer was one of the most special of their lives.
I remember Major (Matt’s camp name) being a patient, playful person with his campers and a goofy, sweet man with his friends. There were a few of us in our camp “band,” the “Kentahten Rat Pack.” We were . . . not that good but we had a lot of fun. I remember Major and Maverick, with their guitars and some of the only real musical talent in the group trying patiently and a bit desperately to keep the rest of us in tune and in time for our performances at campfire.
All of us from camp have great memories of Matt and we’re honoured to carry a little piece of his memory with us. Thanks for sharing him with us for a little while.
- Cowboy and Ginger (and all the rest from that summer).
Photos:
- The Rat Pack (clockwise from Matt (Major): Cowboy (me), Space, Papa, Maverick and Woody.
- Matt on travel day rocking the THCF threads
- Pippi, Major and Cosmo at the kayaks on waterfront
- Major getting the fire going for a camp sing-a-long.
I remember Major (Matt’s camp name) being a patient, playful person with his campers and a goofy, sweet man with his friends. There were a few of us in our camp “band,” the “Kentahten Rat Pack.” We were . . . not that good but we had a lot of fun. I remember Major and Maverick, with their guitars and some of the only real musical talent in the group trying patiently and a bit desperately to keep the rest of us in tune and in time for our performances at campfire.
All of us from camp have great memories of Matt and we’re honoured to carry a little piece of his memory with us. Thanks for sharing him with us for a little while.
- Cowboy and Ginger (and all the rest from that summer).
Photos:
- The Rat Pack (clockwise from Matt (Major): Cowboy (me), Space, Papa, Maverick and Woody.
- Matt on travel day rocking the THCF threads
- Pippi, Major and Cosmo at the kayaks on waterfront
- Major getting the fire going for a camp sing-a-long.
February 23, 2025
1
I had the pleasure of watching Matt grow up for 20 years from an early age. He was a good friend to both my boys and worked with Alex on music something they shared, He was very friendly and worked hard. I remember him building a pergola for his parents on their deck on Locks Rd. Many other fun times around the neighbourhood. Please say hi to Scratch and Jake for me because I know you will be looking for the dogs. Rest in peace Matt
February 23, 2025
1
Don & Linda ,Sandy
I'm so sorry to hear about Matthew ,from what I have read it sounds like he was beautiful soul .Sounds like all the Skinner I have the pleasure of.knowing.You are in my thoughts and prayers at this time .God Bless you all.
I'm so sorry to hear about Matthew ,from what I have read it sounds like he was beautiful soul .Sounds like all the Skinner I have the pleasure of.knowing.You are in my thoughts and prayers at this time .God Bless you all.
February 22, 2025
2
Matt,
You just knew how to make people feel welcome, special and included. Always the most prepared, always the most willing to help, and take care of you without hesitation.
I remember a trip where my bike died out in Hope. Without giving it a second thought, he said "i'll head home, grab my truck and come get you." It just speaks to the type of person he is, at a moments notice has a plan, and actions it.
You are truly a special person, and I think everyone that knows you can say the same. I know you are the type of person that I hope to be. I'll never forget our time together, the memories and adventures along the way. I know I'm still having a hard time processing it, and I think that shows how impactful you were as a person.
Love you buddy,
Till our next adventure
-Kevin
You just knew how to make people feel welcome, special and included. Always the most prepared, always the most willing to help, and take care of you without hesitation.
I remember a trip where my bike died out in Hope. Without giving it a second thought, he said "i'll head home, grab my truck and come get you." It just speaks to the type of person he is, at a moments notice has a plan, and actions it.
You are truly a special person, and I think everyone that knows you can say the same. I know you are the type of person that I hope to be. I'll never forget our time together, the memories and adventures along the way. I know I'm still having a hard time processing it, and I think that shows how impactful you were as a person.
Love you buddy,
Till our next adventure
-Kevin
February 22, 2025
3
I met Matt through Reddit back in 2014, when I was looking for a "secret" (non-existent) hot spring. When this, at the time to me, stranger referenced an obscure research paper from the 80's with coordinates of a geothermal research borehole in an attempt to pinpoint the location better, I knew that I had to join him on this expedition. We didn't find anything, but we bonded over a shared love for warm water that comes from underground and over cold hate towards a certain local motorcycle dealership. Since then we shared dozens if not hundred wonderful short and long trips all over BC.
Matt was a person that I could talk to about anything - be that weird theories, personal or work problems, religious or political beliefs, machinery, pork geneaology, gardening, books and films, and especially our respective canine friends and their similar quirks.
With Matt's apt knowledge and skill in repairing anything imaginable, we got to spend a lot of time in his basement workshop, where I learned pretty much everything that I know about working on cars and motorcycles. Thanks to the genius American and Japanese automotive design quirks, there was never a shortage of things to be fixed - which, in hindsight, I am thankful for because it gave us so many opportunities to hang out.
Mat was absolutely one of the kindest and most genuine people I have ever had the pleasure to meet, and I am immensely greatful to have been his friend.
Matt was a person that I could talk to about anything - be that weird theories, personal or work problems, religious or political beliefs, machinery, pork geneaology, gardening, books and films, and especially our respective canine friends and their similar quirks.
With Matt's apt knowledge and skill in repairing anything imaginable, we got to spend a lot of time in his basement workshop, where I learned pretty much everything that I know about working on cars and motorcycles. Thanks to the genius American and Japanese automotive design quirks, there was never a shortage of things to be fixed - which, in hindsight, I am thankful for because it gave us so many opportunities to hang out.
Mat was absolutely one of the kindest and most genuine people I have ever had the pleasure to meet, and I am immensely greatful to have been his friend.
February 22, 2025
1
Although I never met Matt in person I do know how deeply he cared for rescue dogs. He volunteered for the same rescue I do, Loved At Last Dog Rescue, and there are many adopters who he helped unite with their overseas pups either by fostering them or bringing them right to their homes when they were unable to get to the airport. We have a private adopters group on Facebook that he was part of, we loved seeing updates on Shabdis and Maya.
Petra and family, please know that there are many condolences to you all (as I posted in our private group) 40 plus fellow adopters are shocked and sadden. There have been some touching comments from those he helped with their dog. We are all deeply sorry for your unimaginable loss.
Lori and fellow LALDR adopters and volunteers.
Petra and family, please know that there are many condolences to you all (as I posted in our private group) 40 plus fellow adopters are shocked and sadden. There have been some touching comments from those he helped with their dog. We are all deeply sorry for your unimaginable loss.
Lori and fellow LALDR adopters and volunteers.
February 22, 2025
1
His was a soul that knew himself and never backed down when that was challenged, living his life how he knew it should be lived by only the rules he made for himself, and not by any others. Even if it meant taking a Ford escort with a stereo he installed himself, down trails in the middle of the night.
The greatest regret anyone can have is that more time wasn't spent knowing him.
The greatest regret anyone can have is that more time wasn't spent knowing him.
February 22, 2025
1
Dearest Mat, a true friend, a beacon of light, gone too soon, yet your spirit lives on in the hearts of all the fur babies you’d generously helped, those who loved you, and Shabdis and Maya. You are deeply missed.
Your unwavering loyalty, infectious enthusiasm and compassion as a volunteer in helping me with the rescued angles,was poignant and touched everyone who knew you. Your kindness will forever echo in my heart.
Words seem inadequate to express the profound sadness I feel at your passing.
I will forever cherish and count myself very lucky having had such a special soul as a friend.
Your legacy lives on in the wagging tails of every dog you touched, and will continue to inspire us all.
My heartfelt condolences to your loved ones, your beloved dogs, and to all kindhearted people that have lost such a caring pure hearted man.
I’m sure all the fur babies in the sky ran to greet you.
Rest in peace
Your unwavering loyalty, infectious enthusiasm and compassion as a volunteer in helping me with the rescued angles,was poignant and touched everyone who knew you. Your kindness will forever echo in my heart.
Words seem inadequate to express the profound sadness I feel at your passing.
I will forever cherish and count myself very lucky having had such a special soul as a friend.
Your legacy lives on in the wagging tails of every dog you touched, and will continue to inspire us all.
My heartfelt condolences to your loved ones, your beloved dogs, and to all kindhearted people that have lost such a caring pure hearted man.
I’m sure all the fur babies in the sky ran to greet you.
Rest in peace
February 22, 2025
1
Sending love to the family, friends and loved ones. He was so special and such a genuine human ❤️
February 22, 2025
2
I met Matt during a one-year trip I took across Canada in 2016-2017.
By one of life's coincidences, our paths crossed, and we ended up as housemates. I loved discussing ideas with him after work. I was always struck by his insatiable curiosity and his sharp mind when it came to debating complex reasoning. I remember our endless conversations about gadgets and his remarkable patience and generosity. Matt was one of the people who helped me learn English.
Before I returned to Europe, he wanted to show me the woods in the Trooper on a multi-day journey through the idyllic landscapes of beautiful British Columbia. An adventure I will always treasure.
Matt was one of those people who left a mark wherever he went. We’re going to miss you, buddy.
Rest in peace, amigo. I will always be grateful to you.
By one of life's coincidences, our paths crossed, and we ended up as housemates. I loved discussing ideas with him after work. I was always struck by his insatiable curiosity and his sharp mind when it came to debating complex reasoning. I remember our endless conversations about gadgets and his remarkable patience and generosity. Matt was one of the people who helped me learn English.
Before I returned to Europe, he wanted to show me the woods in the Trooper on a multi-day journey through the idyllic landscapes of beautiful British Columbia. An adventure I will always treasure.
Matt was one of those people who left a mark wherever he went. We’re going to miss you, buddy.
Rest in peace, amigo. I will always be grateful to you.
February 21, 2025
3
I moved to Vancouver alone in January 2010, knowing only one person from my home country. But Matt was the first friend I made after starting work at PJS in April. On my first day, we rode together in a beat-up Chevy Astro to Kelowna, total strangers at the time. But Matt had this way of making people feel welcome. We quickly bonded over music, and when Lee joined us in Kelowna, we became a formidable trio.
Matt taught me so much. Not just about work and technology but about life. He introduced me to proper coffee and took his love for food to another level. His legendary “meatings” were no joke, sometimes an 18-hour pig roast. His pickling skills were just as impressive.
What stood out most was his mechanical mind. He was always rebuilding something, and I remember how momentous it was when he got his first welder. He could fix anything. A landlord’s dream.
You could always rely on Matt. He photographed my wedding without ever expecting compensation. He even planned my entire bucks party. Just the kind of selfless, generous person he was. Always inclusive, always looking out for others.
The basement metal jams at Dumfries were… experimental, to say the least. I was pretty crummy on drums, but that never mattered to Matt. We had fun, and that’s all that counted.
Looking back through old emails, I find subject lines that instantly bring a smile to my face. Short, endearing greetings like "peckerheads" that only a close mate could get away with. He was like a brother.
He had a knack for learning and an eagerness to share knowledge. If you wanted to learn, he was always there to teach, and if he set his mind to something, he got it done. There were things on my bucket list to do with Matt, like camping, hunting and four-wheel driving in the Canadian wilderness that we never got to do as I moved back to Australia. I was looking forward to the day we’d “meat” again, but I feel privileged to have spent years working 8-10 hours a day with Matt and still wanting to hang out after. That says everything about the kind of person he was.
Rest easy, mate. You’ll be deeply missed.
Matt taught me so much. Not just about work and technology but about life. He introduced me to proper coffee and took his love for food to another level. His legendary “meatings” were no joke, sometimes an 18-hour pig roast. His pickling skills were just as impressive.
What stood out most was his mechanical mind. He was always rebuilding something, and I remember how momentous it was when he got his first welder. He could fix anything. A landlord’s dream.
You could always rely on Matt. He photographed my wedding without ever expecting compensation. He even planned my entire bucks party. Just the kind of selfless, generous person he was. Always inclusive, always looking out for others.
The basement metal jams at Dumfries were… experimental, to say the least. I was pretty crummy on drums, but that never mattered to Matt. We had fun, and that’s all that counted.
Looking back through old emails, I find subject lines that instantly bring a smile to my face. Short, endearing greetings like "peckerheads" that only a close mate could get away with. He was like a brother.
He had a knack for learning and an eagerness to share knowledge. If you wanted to learn, he was always there to teach, and if he set his mind to something, he got it done. There were things on my bucket list to do with Matt, like camping, hunting and four-wheel driving in the Canadian wilderness that we never got to do as I moved back to Australia. I was looking forward to the day we’d “meat” again, but I feel privileged to have spent years working 8-10 hours a day with Matt and still wanting to hang out after. That says everything about the kind of person he was.
Rest easy, mate. You’ll be deeply missed.
February 21, 2025
3
I am heartbroken to hear of Matt's passing. I extend sincere condolences to his family and friends. Matt and I worked together on rescuing a few dogs through Loved At Last Dog Rescue. I was always touched by Matt's gentle kindness for all the dogs as well as his openness to help any of us when a dog (or a human) needed assistance. Matt had a special heart that he shared with so many others.
February 21, 2025
4
Matt was the ultimate onion. Infinite layers built upon a passion for improving their surroundings, and a constant journey of truly knowing others. I'm hard pressed to think of many who live their lives so fully.
Much is said about Matt's intelligence, his wisdom never making others feel less.
Matt generously offered space for others, while being the first with a helping hand.
Unwilling to compromise at the face of real evils, to save his heart for those most in need. Human or otherwise.
The soothing silver lining is seeing Matt's community, bonded by tragedy. Though he found his niche in the West, He spoke lovingly with a pride of the East. I'm so saddened by his passing. But I mourn for the world which was a better place with Skinny in it.
- Matt stardust, Dirtbags M.A.C.
PS: Skinner's knowledge of the Suzuki DR-Z was so thorough, he's referred to as Doctor Z within our group of 12 such models. Priceless with the places we had gone together. Me being a beneficiary of a trailside carb rebuild more than once!
Much is said about Matt's intelligence, his wisdom never making others feel less.
Matt generously offered space for others, while being the first with a helping hand.
Unwilling to compromise at the face of real evils, to save his heart for those most in need. Human or otherwise.
The soothing silver lining is seeing Matt's community, bonded by tragedy. Though he found his niche in the West, He spoke lovingly with a pride of the East. I'm so saddened by his passing. But I mourn for the world which was a better place with Skinny in it.
- Matt stardust, Dirtbags M.A.C.
PS: Skinner's knowledge of the Suzuki DR-Z was so thorough, he's referred to as Doctor Z within our group of 12 such models. Priceless with the places we had gone together. Me being a beneficiary of a trailside carb rebuild more than once!
February 21, 2025
8
I am so grateful to have someone like uncle Matt in my life. The last thing I ever said to him was a quote from my most favourite music artist, Matt Mays which said;
“Shine your light and save my soul
I wish I was with you, holding you tight
Cause my angles get sullied by the demons of the night, into the ever light, chase the light”
from the song “Chase The Light.” I was so happy that I was able to say one last goodbye to him. Even though I won’t see him again, he will always be with me throughout the rest of my life, and that goes for everyone else who has been touched by Matt’s loving, adventurous and kind heart.
“Shine your light and save my soul
I wish I was with you, holding you tight
Cause my angles get sullied by the demons of the night, into the ever light, chase the light”
from the song “Chase The Light.” I was so happy that I was able to say one last goodbye to him. Even though I won’t see him again, he will always be with me throughout the rest of my life, and that goes for everyone else who has been touched by Matt’s loving, adventurous and kind heart.
February 21, 2025
3
To friends, family, and to one of my deepest and oldest friends, i am so sorry brother.! I remember the two of you downstaires when i used to come over to hang out , both rockin out to the same music , both laughin, fighting, and doing what siblings always do best. I wish i had memories to share of us, but being one of your best friends he was always around growing up, and i will always remember him, and always remember the 3 of us growing up in that basement... Love you guys...!
Family tree
Other family members
Jessica Skinner
Sister in Law
Donald Skinner
Linda (Matthews) Skinner
Petra Jurcak
Sandy Skinner
Sandy Skinner
Petra Jurcak
Matthew Skinner
Donate
In honour of our Matt, if you wish we invite you to contribute
by following the bellow link created by Matt’s beloved friends.
https://gofund.me/10302f49
by following the bellow link created by Matt’s beloved friends.
https://gofund.me/10302f49
made with 