Matthew James Edwards, 19

Matthew James Edwards of Bigfork, known to most as “Matty,” died on Oct. 28, 2013 in Swan Lake, from injuries after being ejected from his vehicle, at the young age of 19.

Matt was born on May 9, 1994 in Springfield, Mo. to Ira Edwards and Katie Edwards. Matt had two adoring sisters, CharLee and Hannah, who he loved to pick on and tease but most of all protect and support.

The family moved to Montana after his little sister, Hannah, was born. Here, in Bigfork, a love began that would shape him into the adrenaline junky we all knew him to be. As a boy, he taught his sisters how to play rough and have a love for the dirt. From the beginning, he could always be found beside anything that had wheels or a motor. 

Matt attended Swan River Elementary and Middle School. After graduating from there as a “true-Swany,” he went to Bigfork High School. Matt was not the type of person to love school or homework, but he loved learning. He loved sports, playing basketball, football, golf and track and field for the school. On the Bigfork football team, Matt was always the guy who knocked you off your feet but then, would stand there and pull you back up. 

Mechanics and motors were something that always interested him. He was always working alongside his dad, sharing a love that bonded them forever. Matt began racing endurance races on his dirt bike and ended up seventh in the nation in his class at the end of his senior year. He loved snowmobiling and being up in the mountains. Matt also had a love for hunting and fishing. He would always say that he never wanted to leave this valley. After graduation, Matt started a course at the community college to get his CNC certificate. He once told his younger sister that he wanted to build the parts for jumbo jets. 

Matt was all about family and friends. He had such a huge heart; anyone who met him instantly liked him. He was always there when you needed something and would drop anything to help you out. Matt loved his family and was always a part of every ones lives. He had many friends that became like brothers and sisters to him. 

Matt was always “wide open,” black smoke clouding up behind him. He had a spirit of life like no other person. He could make anyone smile and laugh and always kept things lively. He took care of all he loved and could be counted on for anything. He never did anything unless he could give it 100 percent. He was good at everything he did and worked hard to do better in areas that were lacking. Matt touched so many lives and hearts. He will always be remembered for his constant smile, his quick jokes and his measure of respect that so many people looked up to. He was an amazing friend, brother, and son.

Matt is survived by his friends and by all his family in the states of Montana, Missouri, Arkansas, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming and North Carolina.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Matthew’s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to view Matthew’s guest book, offer condolences and share memories.