Obituary of Matthew Phillip Kurtenbach

Watch recorded service at https://www.ustream.tv/embed/recorded/118409534?html5ui

Matthew left us far too early and left a huge hole in our hearts and lives. He passed away at his home in Victoria B.C. at the age of 25. He was born in Saskatoon and had moved to Victoria in 2015 where he flourished and drew in many new friends with his wit and charm. He was predeceased by his Grandmother Shirley Kurtenbach and Grandmother Shirley Sauve. He leaves behind his loving parents Gerald Kurtenbach, Karen Kurtenbach-Sauve and his step father Per Warmedal. Matt was especially devoted to his brother Sam who had joined him in British Columbia recently. Sam was following in Matt's footsteps working in Sheet Metal. Matt had recently achieved his red seal as a journey man and was working in Victoria for Playstead Sheet Metal. He was greatly respected and being groomed for a management position. Matt also leaves behind his grandfathers on both sides of the family, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends. He was especially protective of his cousins and was the elder statesman for them, protecting them when needed and supporting them whenever he could. Matt was a special man who could sense the troubles of others and always felt that he must help in any way he could. He had recently met the lovely Evanthia Karakostas, and new love was in both of their hearts. Matt had a presence that filled a room, something that he was born with. When he came in, all eyes turned to him. His heart never held an evil feeling, he had a keen mind and a wicked, sometimes goofy sense of humour. He had a talent for accents and was not shy about sharing his humour with anyone. Matt had shoulder surgery in 2011, and was prescribed medications that he became addicted to. He tried for many years to overcome it, even going to Cedars at Cobble Hill for treatment. Matt celebrated two years of sobriety in March of 2018 and on his journey he helped and guided many people on their path to recovery. Ultimately, he succumbed to the disease. The family would like to thank those at Cedars, his counsellors and friends for supporting Matt through that time. A Service in Remembrance will be held at the Saskatoon Funeral Home at 338 4lh Avenue North in Saskatoon at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 24, 2018. Interment will be at a private family gathering. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

“He will be greatly missed and never forgotten.”