Obituary of Matt Walsh
*********UPDATE*************
“Funeral service will be held on Saturday March 15th at 6:30 PM at The Church of Scotland in Cape Traverse”
1981 ~ 2025
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Matt Walsh, who left us in the early hours of February 23, 2025, at Vancouver General Hospital, due to complications from a sudden cardiac arrest. With his mom & sister by his side, Matt made his final journey into the great wide open.
Matt was known for his infectious sense of humour & random outburst of songs that perfectly aligned with any given situation to encourage togetherness, bring ease & laughter. His ability to light up any room and his unwavering spirit to live life on his own terms will remain unforgettable to the people who knew and loved him.
Matt grew up in Carleton Siding, Prince Edward Island. After high school, he obtained a travel & tourism diploma and consequent degrees from St. Thomas University, The University of Malta and The University of Maine.
As a teacher, Matt always viewed himself as a student, as well. It was never lost upon him just how much his students & their experiences enriched his own life. Matt loved coaching high school hockey; it reminded him of days “on The D” at Gateway Arena, with many kids who became his life long friends.
Having visited half of the world’s countries, it was easy for Matt to feel at home anywhere. He was perpetually curious about people, how they lived and most importantly, if they knew how to have a good time! His favourite place was the Black Sea. It was his retirement goal to fish, love and live by the sea.
Sadly, Matthew struggled openly with depression and alcoholism. Despite the depth of his battles, he was always appreciative of the support and love of his family and friends. Those fortunate to have known him will remember him as a humble guy who would give you the shirt off his back. Even in his darkest struggles, he strived to right wrongs. He wanted nothing more than to be free from illness, to be a great Dad to his daughter and a good partner. He ended every conversation with those he cared for most with ‘love you’; and he considered his closest friends to be like brothers and sisters, which he often called them.
Matt is survived by the love of his life, Elitza, their beautiful daughter Samantha Walsh of Sofia, Bulgaria; his devoted parents Sam and Carol Walsh; his beloved sister and “first best friend” Robyn MacKay; brother-in-law Andrew MacKay, his nephew and nieces Thatcher, Everleigh and Elliott MacKay who adored their “Uncle Ba”; and his grandmother Doris Foy. Also survived by many special aunts, uncles and caring cousins.
True to form, Matt chose to donate several of his organs, to give the gift of life to others after his passing. His genuine kindness and compassion will continue to have an impact long into the future. His light will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Rest in peace, Matty. You will be missed dearly.
Funeral service will be held on Saturday March 15th at 6:30 PM at The Church of Scotland in Cape Traverse. Funeral arrangements are entrusted with East Prince Funeral Home in Summerside, PEI. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Education Trust for Samantha Walsh —samanthawalsheducationtrust@gmail.com