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Showing 53 comments
Christine Wellfare
Matt your passing has left a huge hole in the InvoCare family. You have been an amazing leader and we miss you already. Much love to your family and friends. You will be greatly missed.
Chris Heritage
Condolences on Matt’s passing Our thoughts and prayers Chris & Kaylene Heritage and our family Heritage Brady Funeral Directors Cairns
Anna Harman
Hi Donna – I only heard very recently that Matt had passed away & wasn’t able to come to the funeral. I remember how very kind he had been to me when I had some personal issues over the years when I was working as a pre- planning consultant for Invocare for 16 years. I have a friend who still works for Invocare send me the funeral link. It left me very saddened & tearful. I remember how happy Matt had been when you had Lucy & then Sophie. Take care of yourself & the girls – love Anna
Vanessa Berry
Matt, I am grateful to have crossed paths with you in this life. You are one of the good guys. I loved your honesty & authenticity; you were always up for a laugh. You always picked up the phone when I called with a question, to run a scenario by you. Hey Matt, can I run something by you? Always generous with your time and encouraging me to think differently. You carried yourself with such kindness. A true gentleman in every sense. You will be missed and fondly remembered, not just for the incredible colleague you were but for the person you were. Thank you to your family for sharing you with us all at InvoCare.
Now in eternity ❤️
Craig Renshaw
Matt. Fond memories from our first meeting as part of the original Simplicity Steering Committee, right up to the AFDA 90th Celebrations. I always looked forward to catching up with you. “How’s things Old Boy” you would always ask and you were genuinely interested with what was happening in my life. A gentleman that will be missed very much by many. Much love to his family, colleagues and friends. Rest In Peace my friend
Matt
Donna, Sophie and Lucy, the way Matt’s face would beam every time he spoke about you, he was the proudest Dad and husband you could imagine, and you all brought him so much joy. Matt was a giant of the funeral industry and had no shortage of successes, but his proudest achievement was his beautiful family. Thinking of you all x.
Michelle Hockings
Heartbroken for you all as his family and cannot imagine your journey without your precious husband and dad. Thanks for sharing Matt with us, I held him and will continue to hold him in the highest esteem. He was instrumental in my achievements in my funeral career and for that I will be forever grateful. He will leave a gaping hole in our business.
penny wilson
Saddened to hear of the passing of Matt So young, i only met Matt once through my partner , Thinking of Warwick and all of your family at this sad time.
Rohan Hodgson
Matt, I’m still in shock and heartbroken at your passing. You were more than just a leader and mentor — you were a genuinely kind and thoughtful person who made everyone around you feel valued.
I’ll always remember how warmly you spoke about your family, and how you took the same care and interest in hearing about mine. That meant a lot.
Thank you for everything you gave to me and to the Sunshine Coast team. You made a lasting impact, more than I ever properly said at the time.
Rest easy, mate. My thoughts are with Donna, Sophie and Lucy.
Sharleene Klaehn
Matt, I met you over 13 years and you had the warmest welcoming smile. I am deeply saddened at your loss, along with my Mum who also had the privilege to call you, her boss. You were an amazing mentor, leader, and a genuinely down-to-earth man. You will be forever missed but never forgotten. Our thoughts are with Donna, Sophie and Lucy at this time.
Marama Tupuhi ( Mar )
Matt, it with deep sadness to hear of your passing, you were always up for a chat or a one on one, always gave honest feedback and encouraged me to stay with it, believing that it will work itself out. Your beaming smile will be missed, and you straight up honesty. Matt, you always kept it real
Michelle Simpson
One of the good ones. Genuine person who always had time for a question, and a laugh. A legacy to be proud of. Rest easy, M x
Lynette Loy
Matt was always happy to help the IT team at InvoCare understand what would work best for our colleagues. Always happy & his face lit up when he greeted people. My thoughts are with his family & wishing that they enjoy all the memories that will be flooding in at the weirdest times with happiness & the sadness will abate with these. Rest well Matt, you will be missed
Yvonne Dougal
I have worked with Invocare for four years and during the past 2 years I have been fortunate to have had Matt as my Regional Manager. You will be deeply missed by all your team. We will miss your weekly L.M meetings, your jokes, your warm smile, and the way you were always available and supportive of your staff. It is so sad to say goodbye and to know we will no longer see you walking into our branch, simply checking in and making sure everyone is ok. Thank you for being such an amazing Regional Manager. Invocare will truly not be the same without you. The GHM Albany Creek team will continue to make you proud. My deepest condolences to your family, who we all know you adored with all your heart. Rest peacefully, Matt
Jun Li
Matt, I’m still very shocked and heartbroken to hear of your passing. It feels like last month when you interviewed me more than 6 years ago. You are such an amazing leader, always very supportive, genuine care for the team, great leader of MCU team, thank you for everything you’ve done for us, team and families we cared. Our thought are with your family. Rest In Peace.
Mark Osborne
I didn’t work with Matt often but, when I did it was a pleasure. To all of his family my deepest condolences, your loss is just unbearable and he will be missed in so may ways. He was an amazing leader, colleague and most of all friend.
My thoughts are with Warwick and all of Matts family at this time.
Rest in peace my very good friend!
Kate Walker
Sending our deepest and heartfelt sympathy and love to Donna-Maree, Lucy, Sophie, Warwick, Noni, Robyn and all of the extended Hansen and Devoy clans. I was so honoured and privileged to be a bridesmaid at your wedding nearly 29 years ago. Matt’s untimely passing will leave such a hole in your lives however his memory will last forever. Rest in peace, dear Matt.
Peter Gardiner
To all the Hansen family. Our thoughts and best wishes on this very sad day. Matthew you were a true lariken from the day you were born. Your passing will leave a gigantic hole in our lives. Your dad and I could not even play a game of chess without you interfering. We will love you for ever. Rest in peace Matty. Love to all the beautiful Hansen family on this solemn day. Peter & Joan Gardiner and families xx
Nellie Hage
Matt, I was deeply saddened to hear of your passing. I have been reflecting over the many years we have worked together..and the fun conversations we had over rugby league….My deepest condolences to your family and your loved ones left behind…May you Rest in Peace and your memories live in our hearts forever..until we meet again..God Bless
Simon Kelly
Sorry to hear of your passing Matt. You stood out among your peers for your sincere, honest, caring and genuine nature. You showed fairness and compassion somewhere it is not always found. My heartfelt condolences to your family. We have lost a good one.
Craig Burge
Deepest condolences to you Donna and family. He was one of a kind. Our thoughts are with you.
Greg Fraser
Deepest condolences to you, Donna, and your family.
I will always remember Matt fondly as a dear friend and a truly kind soul. He supported me through some of my darkest days, and I will be forever grateful for his kindness and compassion.
Rest in peace, my friend.
Ross Barlow
Matt gave me my start in InvoCare. As our paths crossed over the years hé would look at me and say “well you fooled me” (followed by much laughter). Farewell mate. Thanks for everything but most of all thanks for your friendship.
Daniel McKeig
Matt, My awesome mate of over 30 years, we had some great times together brother and conferences will not be same without you. Until we see the sunrise together again, rest up buddy
Courtney.F
I’ve sent a card to your family – but no amount of words will ever be able to make up for the man that you were, Matt. You gave advice, you stood in my corner, and while on parental leave having my youngest, you reached out to check in still – and even checked in again when I snapped my ankle 3 months after having her. My heart breaks, because when I had no one, and was in the trenches on welcoming a new baby, you were still there; checking in as always. I never felt like just an employee with you, and it has left a lasting impression.
I’m sending so much love from my family, to yours you will be missed.
Davin Searle
I didn’t know Matt, but I have known his dad, Warwick for over 20 years. Having listened to the eulogies and memories today of Matt, I was struck by how similar dad and son are. Sophie and Lucy stay close to your grandad, and in him you’ll see and hear your loving dad, each and every time.
My sympathy to all in the family.
Alison Fitzgerald
Heartfelt condolences to Donna and the girls. Matt was my RM. He was the right mix of being for the company and for the workers. He was upfront and honest with a no bullshit approach which I always appreciated, he had a cheeky grin was was always up for a joke and a laugh. He would always make time if you needed him and if he was busy would always get back to you. Our Invocare family will not be the same without him. I will never forget the car trip we shared on one of our family fun days. He was late, didn’t know how to get to where we were and the bus wouldn’t wait. He said to just go and he would just miss the trip. I told him he wasn’t missing out, so I left my family on the bus and went to get him in my car. We had to race from Cairns to Deeral to get on a boat out to Franklin Island. When we got to the boat we were met by our team who were milling about on and off the boat so they couldn’t leave without us and cranky boat skipper saying “so can we go now !!!”. We all had a fabulous day and he was thankful he made it and said it was one of the best family fun days he’d been on. That 40 min in the car on the way to Deeral was one of the best conversations we’d had as it wasn’t just about work but he told me about Donna and his beautiful girls, Sophie and Lucy whom he adored. About 3 weeks later I got a speeding ticket in the mail. Matt paid for the ticket and I got points. We both said it was worth it for the laughs we had on the day. Rest in Peace Matt x
Christine Williams (nee Sowten)
Beautiful service for a much loved member of the Funeral Industry. Thank you Matt!!!! No words needed or required as actions today and moving forward will speak in volumes….
Michael Lickerman
Sorry to hear of your passing, a true gentleman always there for advice and saw the best in everyone. Condolences to your family you will be missed
Trevor Harrison
I had the pleasure to work alongside Matt in recent years. It was only for a short period however in this time I witnessed a great man which I had great respect for. He will be truly missed by all. Rest in peace.
Stephen Chant
May God rest your joyful cheeky soul at peace. My thoughts and prayers go to you family though I did not know him much at all. The 3 times I met him began with a massive cheeky grin, a positive hey, how are ya! I’ll always be grateful for that, thank you Matt and my deepest condolences to the family.
Kelly Scott
Such a beautiful celebration of a truly beautiful man. Farewell Matt – thank you. It was a privilege to know you.
Greg Bisset
My deep condolences to Donna and the girls. Matt was an outstanding human being with enormous integrity and exceptional values, and I fondly look back at the time we were colleagues together. May he rest in peace.
Daksha Pindoria
What a lovely celebration of life! I only knew Matt through emails and phone calls but he has passed leaving fond memories. Matt, you were the wonderful, happy and most helpful person no matter what the situation was. A special guy who will most definitely be missed. My condolences and love to Matt’s family. xxx.
Bruno Muraca
Matt, I was very fortunate to have met you. The first time I came up to a QLD AFDA, the respect, support and constructive feedback was very much appreciated. The afternoon then turned into a few lessons, great stories and some cheeky drinks. Thank you Matt, for your steer and mateship. You will be missed by the industry, friends and family alike. I will always raise a glass to you at all future QLD AFDA (now Funerals Australia) meeting. Rest peacefully – Bruno
Michelle Marks
I’m so heartbroken for you, Noni, Warwick and Kel. I have so many fun memories of our teenage years in your home at Keiraville. The service today for Matt was so beautiful. Much love, Michelle.
Gwendolyn Devoy
Aunty Donna, Lucy and Soph, I would love nothing more than to give you the worlds biggest hug right now. Uncle Matt was so full of life, joy and cheekiness. I remember one of the last conversations I had with him he gave me some advice – to not take life too seriously and to enjoy every second. I know he lived by that advice each day. He also told me about how much joy comes from being a parent, and I remember seeing his eyes light up as he looked across to his two girls.
Lucy, my favourite memory is when your dad initially refused to let you have a phone when you started high school. Although he caved eventually, you could see that to him you were still his beautiful baby girl.
Soph, I remember seeing you and your dad make Chewbacca noises when you were younger, laughing together in a silly bliss.
Aunty Donna, the way Uncle Matt looked at you spoke a thousand words.
Uncool Matt, Seb and I spent all night walking around Cardiff trying to find somewhere that sells American Honey. We walked into every other pub in search, and thought that the American Bar would have some in stock. We walked into the bar and it was not so much a bar but closer to a strip club! Safe to say we failed in our venture. I hope you will forgive us having the inferior Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey instead. In the spirit of your advice, we still had a giggle at ourselves. You will be so missed.
Paula Wilson
While our families knew one another from living in Wollongong and sailing, my fondest memory of Matt is driving between Bathurst and Wollongong when we were both at Mitchell. I often had to make sure he was awake on a Friday morning (lucky we lived in the same residence), for him to sleep for the next 3.5 hours. He was a well known presence on campus, as part of the trio of Matt, Matt and Tim, and to be honest, Donna was pretty lucky she got a look in. He was good human.
Kellie Cleland
It’s still such a shock to know that Matt has gone. He was such a genuine, kind person who lit up at the mention of his family. He was so good to me as a new employee with my own tragedy and my family will never forget his compassion. x
Sebastian Nunn
In Wee Waa last year, when the Hansens and Devoys were gathered at Alma Street, I found myself standing in the kitchen with Matt drinking American Honey. We were chatting about life, whisky, star wars, and family. It has stayed with me since that night what a fiercely loving father and husband he was. Matt told me how much it sent him reeling every time he looked at Lucy and Sophie and that he was so proud of the incredible people they were becoming. He kept saying they were “just amazing”. Matt also said after looking at Donna that when you find the right person, being a parent is easy. The next day when we were walking around town, a car came round the bend and pulled over beside us with the window down. Matt’s head poked out and exclaimed “Well look at the sort of riff raff you find driving around here in the morning!” Matt’s example of living life with enthusiasm and loving his family with such devotion made a lasting impression on me, as I’m sure he did for so many others.
Jason (Jack) Dempsey
So many fond memories of CSU days and beyond with Matt. Such a wonderful person who will be very missed.
Paul Tobin
I was truly saddened when I heard of Matt’s passing. Matt was a great bloke and a true Funeral Director and Manager. I have much respect for this man who found the balance between the rigors of corporate life and where the leather hits the road. The Funeral World is a better place for Matt having been part of it.
Cathy Barnard
Donna,Lucy,Sophie,Warwick and family. Matt was a leader who inspired,encouraged, developed & ensured there was fun along the way. I will always remember his advice of there will always be swings and roundabouts. Your husband,dad and son made an impact in my life and when he spoke of you all it was with love and respect. Take Care Cath
MATT CROWE
It was too long since I saw you mate! You, TK & I were the first year of Uni ‘3 Amigos’. It was the best year of my life! Listening to your funeral service made me realize you never changed! You were that guy that made people smile wherever you went! All my love to Donna & girls!
Wes Heritage
I’ll always remember Matt for his grin, humour and friendship. He was just a good bloke.
Karla Jones
Dear Donna, Lucy and Sophie, our sincerest condolences on Matt’s passing. Wishing you all the love and strength you need to get through this time. With love, Karla, Barry, Lachlan and Ryan.
Helen Proctor-Curtis
To Matts’s family my sincere condolences for your loss. What a beautiful and befitting service. Matt was a very special man and in my 10 years with Invocare he always greeted me with that cheeky smile and a wise remark. Every time he saw me he would say “Here’s Trouble”. I was very shocked and saddened to hear of Matt’s passing. May his spirit walk with you daily and those happy memories always bring you comfort. He will be sadly missed.
Julie Tyquin
Dear Donna, Lucy and Sophie Thinking of you all at this time. I couldn’t be there today but watched on through livestream. Our workplace with always be missing Matt and his happy friendly face. It will not be the same not having him around anymore. That smile just made you smile. Sending much love. Julie Tyquin
Anne Dawson
Reading all these lovely comments about our Matt makes me realise what a truly special human he was. I have said to many people : “Matt was one of the good guys” … and this sentiment has been repeated by many others. I have known Matt for the 25 years he has worked in our business, and whenever I ran into him he has always been unfailingly cheerful and friendly, with that cheeky grin that everyone comments on. Whenever he visited our Somerville office at Nerang, he would always make time to pop into the arrangers office and have a chat with me – he was never too busy to say gidday. I still can’t believe he is gone; he will be so missed by everyone he has ever crossed paths with. Rest in peace, dear Matt xxx
Amanda Amos
Matt interviewed me for my job over 15 years ago. He came across as a genuine ‘ gentleman ‘ but who was full of character. Matt gave me the confidence to be able to speak to large crowds, be guided by my own thoughts and ideas but to also believe in myself. He will be missed by many xx
Roy Kaufman
I met Matt during my stint as an RM with Invocare. We became friends often debriefing the week over a few beers at the Holland Park Hotel on a Friday arvo. Matt was family man through and through. He was a man of integrity, loyalty and honesty with a wicked sense of humour. I just know he is looking down on us and in his inimitable style saying ‘hey guys, it is what it is’. . Gonna miss you pal. Roy K
Lesley Keeler
What a beautiful service for an even more beautiful man. Matt you were a true inspiration, and the funeral industry will not be the same without you. You had such a warm and welcoming approach with everyone you came into contact with. You were a true family man, who was so incredibly proud of his girls. I shall miss that cheeky grin. Rest easy Matt.
Lynne
Matt was a true gentleman who openly loved his family, showed respect to all, and was fun to spend time with. He was generous with his time and knowledge and cared deeply about making a difference in his chosen profession. He will be deeply missed by so many.
Matt your passing has left a huge hole in the InvoCare family. You have been an amazing leader and we miss you already. Much love to your family and friends. You will be greatly missed.
Condolences on Matt’s passing Our thoughts and prayers Chris & Kaylene Heritage and our family Heritage Brady Funeral Directors Cairns
Hi Donna – I only heard very recently that Matt had passed away & wasn’t able to come to the funeral. I remember how very kind he had been to me when I had some personal issues over the years when I was working as a pre- planning consultant for Invocare for 16 years. I have a friend who still works for Invocare send me the funeral link. It left me very saddened & tearful. I remember how happy Matt had been when you had Lucy & then Sophie. Take care of yourself & the girls – love Anna
Matt, I am grateful to have crossed paths with you in this life.
You are one of the good guys.
I loved your honesty & authenticity; you were always up for a laugh.
You always picked up the phone when I called with a question, to run a scenario by you.
Hey Matt, can I run something by you?
Always generous with your time and encouraging me to think differently.
You carried yourself with such kindness. A true gentleman in every sense.
You will be missed and fondly remembered, not just for the incredible colleague you were but for the person you were.
Thank you to your family for sharing you with us all at InvoCare.
Now in eternity ❤️
Matt. Fond memories from our first meeting as part of the original Simplicity Steering Committee, right up to the AFDA 90th Celebrations. I always looked forward to catching up with you. “How’s things Old Boy” you would always ask and you were genuinely interested with what was happening in my life.
A gentleman that will be missed very much by many.
Much love to his family, colleagues and friends. Rest In Peace my friend
Donna, Sophie and Lucy, the way Matt’s face would beam every time he spoke about you, he was the proudest Dad and husband you could imagine, and you all brought him so much joy. Matt was a giant of the funeral industry and had no shortage of successes, but his proudest achievement was his beautiful family. Thinking of you all x.
Heartbroken for you all as his family and cannot imagine your journey without your precious husband and dad. Thanks for sharing Matt with us, I held him and will continue to hold him in the highest esteem. He was instrumental in my achievements in my funeral career and for that I will be forever grateful. He will leave a gaping hole in our business.
Saddened to hear of the passing of Matt So young, i only met Matt once through my partner ,
Thinking of Warwick and all of your family at this sad time.
Matt, I’m still in shock and heartbroken at your passing. You were more than just a leader and mentor — you were a genuinely kind and thoughtful person who made everyone around you feel valued.
I’ll always remember how warmly you spoke about your family, and how you took the same care and interest in hearing about mine. That meant a lot.
Thank you for everything you gave to me and to the Sunshine Coast team. You made a lasting impact, more than I ever properly said at the time.
Rest easy, mate. My thoughts are with Donna, Sophie and Lucy.
Matt, I met you over 13 years and you had the warmest welcoming smile. I am deeply saddened at your loss, along with my Mum who also had the privilege to call you, her boss. You were an amazing mentor, leader, and a genuinely down-to-earth man. You will be forever missed but never forgotten. Our thoughts are with Donna, Sophie and Lucy at this time.
Matt, it with deep sadness to hear of your passing, you were always up for a chat or a one on one, always gave honest feedback and encouraged me to stay with it, believing that it will work itself out. Your beaming smile will be missed, and you straight up honesty.
Matt, you always kept it real
One of the good ones. Genuine person who always had time for a question, and a laugh. A legacy to be proud of. Rest easy, M x
Matt was always happy to help the IT team at InvoCare understand what would work best for our colleagues.
Always happy & his face lit up when he greeted people.
My thoughts are with his family & wishing that they enjoy all the memories that will be flooding in at the weirdest times with happiness & the sadness will abate with these.
Rest well Matt, you will be missed
I have worked with Invocare for four years and during the past 2 years I have been fortunate to have had Matt as my Regional Manager.
You will be deeply missed by all your team.
We will miss your weekly L.M meetings, your jokes, your warm smile, and the way you were always available and supportive of your staff.
It is so sad to say goodbye and to know we will no longer see you walking into our branch, simply checking in and making sure everyone is ok.
Thank you for being such an amazing Regional Manager. Invocare will truly not be the same without you.
The GHM Albany Creek team will continue to make you proud.
My deepest condolences to your family, who we all know you adored with all your heart.
Rest peacefully, Matt
Matt, I’m still very shocked and heartbroken to hear of your passing. It feels like last month when you interviewed me more than 6 years ago. You are such an amazing leader, always very supportive, genuine care for the team, great leader of MCU team, thank you for everything you’ve done for us, team and families we cared. Our thought are with your family. Rest In Peace.
I didn’t work with Matt often but, when I did it was a pleasure. To all of his family my deepest condolences, your loss is just unbearable and he will be missed in so may ways. He was an amazing leader, colleague and most of all friend.
My thoughts are with Warwick and all of Matts family at this time.
Rest in peace my very good friend!
Sending our deepest and heartfelt sympathy and love to Donna-Maree, Lucy, Sophie, Warwick, Noni, Robyn and all of the extended Hansen and Devoy clans. I was so honoured and privileged to be a bridesmaid at your wedding nearly 29 years ago. Matt’s untimely passing will leave such a hole in your lives however his memory will last forever. Rest in peace, dear Matt.
To all the Hansen family.
Our thoughts and best wishes on this very sad day.
Matthew you were a true lariken from the day you were born. Your passing will leave a gigantic hole in our lives. Your dad and I could not even play a game of chess without you interfering. We will love you for ever. Rest in peace Matty.
Love to all the beautiful Hansen family on this solemn day.
Peter & Joan Gardiner and families xx
Matt, I was deeply saddened to hear of your passing. I have been reflecting over the many years we have worked together..and the fun conversations we had over rugby league….My deepest condolences to your family and your loved ones left behind…May you Rest in Peace and your memories live in our hearts forever..until we meet again..God Bless
Sorry to hear of your passing Matt. You stood out among your peers for your sincere, honest, caring and genuine nature. You showed fairness and compassion somewhere it is not always found. My heartfelt condolences to your family. We have lost a good one.
Deepest condolences to you Donna and family. He was one of a kind.
Our thoughts are with you.
Deepest condolences to you, Donna, and your family.
I will always remember Matt fondly as a dear friend and a truly kind soul. He supported me through some of my darkest days, and I will be forever grateful for his kindness and compassion.
Rest in peace, my friend.
Matt gave me my start in InvoCare. As our paths crossed over the years hé would look at me and say “well you fooled me” (followed by much laughter). Farewell mate. Thanks for everything but most of all thanks for your friendship.
Matt, My awesome mate of over 30 years, we had some great times together brother and conferences will not be same without you. Until we see the sunrise together again, rest up buddy
I’ve sent a card to your family – but no amount of words will ever be able to make up for the man that you were, Matt. You gave advice, you stood in my corner, and while on parental leave having my youngest, you reached out to check in still – and even checked in again when I snapped my ankle 3 months after having her. My heart breaks, because when I had no one, and was in the trenches on welcoming a new baby, you were still there; checking in as always. I never felt like just an employee with you, and it has left a lasting impression.
I’m sending so much love from my family, to yours you will be missed.
I didn’t know Matt, but I have known his dad, Warwick for over 20 years. Having listened to the eulogies and memories today of Matt, I was struck by how similar dad and son are. Sophie and Lucy stay close to your grandad, and in him you’ll see and hear your loving dad, each and every time.
My sympathy to all in the family.
Heartfelt condolences to Donna and the girls.
Matt was my RM. He was the right mix of being for the company and for the workers. He was upfront and honest with a no bullshit approach which I always appreciated, he had a cheeky grin was was always up for a joke and a laugh.
He would always make time if you needed him and if he was busy would always get back to you.
Our Invocare family will not be the same without him.
I will never forget the car trip we shared on one of our family fun days. He was late, didn’t know how to get to where we were and the bus wouldn’t wait. He said to just go and he would just miss the trip. I told him he wasn’t missing out, so I left my family on the bus and went to get him in my car. We had to race from Cairns to Deeral to get on a boat out to Franklin Island. When we got to the boat we were met by our team who were milling about on and off the boat so they couldn’t leave without us and cranky boat skipper saying “so can we go now !!!”. We all had a fabulous day and he was thankful he made it and said it was one of the best family fun days he’d been on.
That 40 min in the car on the way to Deeral was one of the best conversations we’d had as it wasn’t just about work but he told me about Donna and his beautiful girls, Sophie and Lucy whom he adored.
About 3 weeks later I got a speeding ticket in the mail. Matt paid for the ticket and I got points. We both said it was worth it for the laughs we had on the day.
Rest in Peace Matt x
Beautiful service for a much loved member of the Funeral Industry. Thank you Matt!!!!
No words needed or required as actions today and moving forward will speak in volumes….
Sorry to hear of your passing, a true gentleman always there for advice and saw the best in everyone. Condolences to your family you will be missed
I had the pleasure to work alongside Matt in recent years. It was only for a short period however in this time I witnessed a great man which I had great respect for. He will be truly missed by all. Rest in peace.
May God rest your joyful cheeky soul at peace. My thoughts and prayers go to you family though I did not know him much at all. The 3 times I met him began with a massive cheeky grin, a positive hey, how are ya! I’ll always be grateful for that, thank you Matt and my deepest condolences to the family.
Such a beautiful celebration of a truly beautiful man. Farewell Matt – thank you. It was a privilege to know you.
My deep condolences to Donna and the girls. Matt was an outstanding human being with enormous integrity and exceptional values, and I fondly look back at the time we were colleagues together. May he rest in peace.
What a lovely celebration of life!
I only knew Matt through emails and phone calls but he has passed leaving fond memories.
Matt, you were the wonderful, happy and most helpful person no matter what the situation was. A special guy who will most definitely be missed.
My condolences and love to Matt’s family. xxx.
Matt, I was very fortunate to have met you.
The first time I came up to a QLD AFDA, the respect, support and constructive feedback was very much appreciated. The afternoon then turned into a few lessons, great stories and some cheeky drinks.
Thank you Matt, for your steer and mateship.
You will be missed by the industry, friends and family alike. I will always raise a glass to you at all future QLD AFDA (now Funerals Australia) meeting. Rest peacefully – Bruno
I’m so heartbroken for you, Noni, Warwick and Kel. I have so many fun memories of our teenage years in your home at Keiraville. The service today for Matt was so beautiful. Much love, Michelle.
Aunty Donna, Lucy and Soph, I would love nothing more than to give you the worlds biggest hug right now. Uncle Matt was so full of life, joy and cheekiness. I remember one of the last conversations I had with him he gave me some advice – to not take life too seriously and to enjoy every second. I know he lived by that advice each day. He also told me about how much joy comes from being a parent, and I remember seeing his eyes light up as he looked across to his two girls.
Lucy, my favourite memory is when your dad initially refused to let you have a phone when you started high school. Although he caved eventually, you could see that to him you were still his beautiful baby girl.
Soph, I remember seeing you and your dad make Chewbacca noises when you were younger, laughing together in a silly bliss.
Aunty Donna, the way Uncle Matt looked at you spoke a thousand words.
Uncool Matt, Seb and I spent all night walking around Cardiff trying to find somewhere that sells American Honey. We walked into every other pub in search, and thought that the American Bar would have some in stock. We walked into the bar and it was not so much a bar but closer to a strip club! Safe to say we failed in our venture. I hope you will forgive us having the inferior Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey instead. In the spirit of your advice, we still had a giggle at ourselves. You will be so missed.
While our families knew one another from living in Wollongong and sailing, my fondest memory of Matt is driving between Bathurst and Wollongong when we were both at Mitchell. I often had to make sure he was awake on a Friday morning (lucky we lived in the same residence), for him to sleep for the next 3.5 hours. He was a well known presence on campus, as part of the trio of Matt, Matt and Tim, and to be honest, Donna was pretty lucky she got a look in. He was good human.
It’s still such a shock to know that Matt has gone. He was such a genuine, kind person who lit up at the mention of his family. He was so good to me as a new employee with my own tragedy and my family will never forget his compassion. x
In Wee Waa last year, when the Hansens and Devoys were gathered at Alma Street, I found myself standing in the kitchen with Matt drinking American Honey. We were chatting about life, whisky, star wars, and family. It has stayed with me since that night what a fiercely loving father and husband he was. Matt told me how much it sent him reeling every time he looked at Lucy and Sophie and that he was so proud of the incredible people they were becoming. He kept saying they were “just amazing”. Matt also said after looking at Donna that when you find the right person, being a parent is easy.
The next day when we were walking around town, a car came round the bend and pulled over beside us with the window down. Matt’s head poked out and exclaimed “Well look at the sort of riff raff you find driving around here in the morning!”
Matt’s example of living life with enthusiasm and loving his family with such devotion made a lasting impression on me, as I’m sure he did for so many others.
So many fond memories of CSU days and beyond with Matt. Such a wonderful person who will be very missed.
I was truly saddened when I heard of Matt’s passing. Matt was a great bloke and a true Funeral Director and Manager. I have much respect for this man who found the balance between the rigors of corporate life and where the leather hits the road. The Funeral World is a better place for Matt having been part of it.
Donna,Lucy,Sophie,Warwick and family. Matt was a leader who inspired,encouraged, developed & ensured there was fun along the way. I will always remember his advice of there will always be swings and roundabouts. Your husband,dad and son made an impact in my life and when he spoke of you all it was with love and respect. Take Care Cath
It was too long since I saw you mate! You, TK & I were the first year of Uni ‘3 Amigos’. It was the best year of my life! Listening to your funeral service made me realize you never changed! You were that guy that made people smile wherever you went! All my love to Donna & girls!
I’ll always remember Matt for his grin, humour and friendship. He was just a good bloke.
Dear Donna, Lucy and Sophie, our sincerest condolences on Matt’s passing. Wishing you all the love and strength you need to get through this time. With love, Karla, Barry, Lachlan and Ryan.
To Matts’s family my sincere condolences for your loss. What a beautiful and befitting service. Matt was a very special man and in my 10 years with Invocare he always greeted me with that cheeky smile and a wise remark. Every time he saw me he would say “Here’s Trouble”. I was very shocked and saddened to hear of Matt’s passing. May his spirit walk with you daily and those happy memories always bring you comfort. He will be sadly missed.
Dear Donna, Lucy and Sophie
Thinking of you all at this time. I couldn’t be there today but watched on through livestream. Our workplace with always be missing Matt and his happy friendly face. It will not be the same not having him around anymore. That smile just made you smile.
Sending much love. Julie Tyquin
Reading all these lovely comments about our Matt makes me realise what a truly special human he was. I have said to many people : “Matt was one of the good guys” … and this sentiment has been repeated by many others.
I have known Matt for the 25 years he has worked in our business, and whenever I ran into him he has always been unfailingly cheerful and friendly, with that cheeky grin that everyone comments on. Whenever he visited our Somerville office at Nerang, he would always make time to pop into the arrangers office and have a chat with me – he was never too busy to say gidday.
I still can’t believe he is gone; he will be so missed by everyone he has ever crossed paths with. Rest in peace, dear Matt xxx
Matt interviewed me for my job over 15 years ago. He came across as a genuine ‘ gentleman ‘ but who was full of character. Matt gave me the confidence to be able to speak to large crowds, be guided by my own thoughts and ideas but to also believe in myself. He will be missed by many xx
I met Matt during my stint as an RM with Invocare. We became friends often debriefing the week over a few beers at the Holland Park Hotel on a Friday arvo. Matt was family man through and through. He was a man of integrity, loyalty and honesty with a wicked sense of humour. I just know he is looking down on us and in his inimitable style saying ‘hey guys, it is what it is’. . Gonna miss you pal.
Roy K
What a beautiful service for an even more beautiful man. Matt you were a true inspiration, and the funeral industry will not be the same without you. You had such a warm and welcoming approach with everyone you came into contact with. You were a true family man, who was so incredibly proud of his girls. I shall miss that cheeky grin. Rest easy Matt.
Matt was a true gentleman who openly loved his family, showed respect to all, and was fun to spend time with. He was generous with his time and knowledge and cared deeply about making a difference in his chosen profession. He will be deeply missed by so many.