Beloved, funny, ambitious, life-loving son of Steven and Sandra Hartman died on December 22, 2023 at his university home in Guelph. Loving brother of Nathan and Ethan. Mathew was deeply loved by his surviving grandmother Therese Freeman, and his aunts and uncles: Paul and Lora Hartman, Ruth and Bill Flynn, Linda and Gene Duval, Pat Kennerson, Michael and Teresa Kennerson, Davis and Carrie-Anne Kennerson. He will be forever remembered in the hearts of his partner Emily Wright, his many cousins and dear friends, fellow students and work colleagues.
Mathew was an Honours Bachelor of Science Agriculture student at the University of Guelph and was beyond excited to become “the best damn farmer” ever. This being his third year, Mathew was passionate about the science of dirt, fascinated with the life of plants, and loved his part time work in the plant research lab at the University. Mathew loved the outdoors at any time of the year, but the freezing cold winters were his favourite months. A former competitive mogul skier, Mathew loved to spend his winter breaks skiing the spaces between the trees at the family home in Big White, British Columbia. He also cherished his time with friends and family at the cottage on Lake Temagami. Mathew was an avid canoe tripper and spent two months canoeing the arctic with Camp Wanapitei in his final year of high school. He was quick to throw on scuba gear to explore the underwater world on family sailing and diving trips.
Mathew forged a path that honoured his adventurous soul. To honour his memory, live life large. Lift others up, canoe big rivers, have bonfires, go winter camping, string a hammock between the trees and listen to nature, ski big mountains, walk in the woods. Laugh lots with family and friends. And always say I love you.
The family will receive friends at Rod Abrams Funeral Home 1666 Tottenham Rd., Tottenham 905-936-3477 on Friday, December 29, 2023, from 2-4 and 6-8 pm. Funeral service will be held in the chapel on Saturday, December 30, 2023, at 11 am. Cremation will follow. For those who wish donations in memory of Mathew to Medical Ministry International or Headwaters Health Care Foundation would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com.
Service
Visitation
Rod Abrams Funeral Home
1666 Tottenham Rd. Tottenham Ontario, L0G1W0
Friday December 29, 2023
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Friday December 29, 20236:00pm - 8:00pm
Funeral Service
Rod Abrams Funeral Home
1666 Tottenham Rd. Tottenham Ontario, L0G1W0
Saturday December 30, 202311:00 am
John Alac & Family says
Dear Steve and family,
On behalf of the Alac family, please accept these belated condolences on the passing of Matthew. We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Terry Coggins says
To the Hartman family, Steve and Sandra – Belated condolences on the passing of your son, Matthew. It sounds like he was a wonderful individual. Our hearts are with you. – Terry and Linda Coggins
Lauren Miller says
Hartman Family,
My deepest and sincere condolences to you all. When I got the news, my heart broke. I had the opportunity to get to know Matthew on our class trip to Costa Rica, in February of 2023. He so deeply appreciated the little things of life – I could tell, just from the 10 days lived alongside him. I loved listening to his stories about his travels, and hear about his aspirations after school. He spoke so highly of Em. It was clear to me he cherished his friends and family. He encouraged me to think outside the box, when it came to my career and what I loved most in life.
Praying for your family in this time.
Ignis Atteby says
To all of Mathew’s family,
I never knew Mathew, but as I read his obituary now with tears in my eyes, I feel as though he could’ve been a great friend and must’ve been a fantastic person to be around.
I’m so sorry for your loss and offer my sincerest condolences.
Juno McGowan says
I miss ya Matt, I’m sorry I wasn’t there for your funeral. You were an awesome presence to have in the lab and I always looked forward to chatting with you. It was just so awesome having another queer person in the lab that appreciated New Vegas, soulsborne games and Will Wood. Though we only knew eachother for a short time, I’m greatful to have gotten to know you and for all the conversations we had. My heart goes out to your folks, Em and your siblings. Rest easy dude, you were a fucking champ
Matthew Lundstrom says
My sincere condolences for your loss.
Reading about Mathews passing and reflecting on his ambitions and character, it hit me deeply to know we have all lost a good being in this world. I couldn’t help but think if this were to happen to me, and the hole it would leave for my family. I am sending you much love and strength as you carry his life with you. I never crossed paths with Mathew, I studied Landscape Architecture accross from the Ag Sciences building, but I would have loved to meet him.
I will live large and climb big mountains and work to make a better world as Im sure he aspired to.
Thinking of you and yours. God bless.
Marcia Mayhew says
Dear Steve,
My heartfelt condolences on the loss of your eldest son. No parent should ever feel such pain. You, Sandra, and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. If there’s anything I can do to support you, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
With heartfelt sympathy, Marcia
Greg Playford says
Steve and Sandra, I am so saddened to hear about the loss of Mathew. My thoughts are with you, Ethan and Nathan. My heart breaks for you during this time of unimaginable grief.
Lynne Burke says
Dear Sandra and family,
I have fond memories of Mathew and his time at The Maples School. He had a great smile and was always ready for action. I was shocked to find out about his passing.
My deepest condolences
Lynne Burke
Narges and Rambod says
Narges and I were deeply saddened to hear about the passing of your beloved Mathew. Please accept our heartfelt condolences during this incredibly difficult time.
Though our acquaintance with Mathew was relatively short, the impact of his vibrant spirit and the fond memories shared by others have made it clear that he was an extraordinary individual.
We remember Mathew’s presence in the laboratory, where his dedication and contributions were truly valued. His kindness, enthusiasm, and love for life’s adventures resonated with everyone. It’s evident that he touched the hearts of everyone he encountered.
As you navigate through this challenging period, please know that our thoughts and sympathies are with you. May the cherished memories of Mathew’s love and warmth provide solace in the days ahead.
We deeply miss his presence in the laboratory and the positive energy he brought with him.
Jay Subramanian says
I am in a shock beyond words. He was a student in my class last Fall and always comes to the class or lab in his skateboard. A really funny student with a freelance spirit. Rest in peace Matt. When I go the lab again next time your lab bench will present a hollow look to me! My heartfelt condolences to the family members.
Deb Whitworth says
Dear Steve, Sandra, Nathan and Ethan,
I just heard the heartbreaking news today and there are no words to express my sadness for your loss. Matthew’s obituary is beautiful and I’m sorry I didn’t get to know him as he grew into what sounds like an amazing young man. May you find comfort in your memories of times spent together and May God grant you the strength the face the rough days. With heartfelt sorrow….
mrs. Weeda says
Iam so sorry to hear of Matthew. He was so entertaining at school, never a dull moment. He will be missed by all that knew him. My deepest condolences to you all.
David Cole says
My thoughts are with you. Steve, Sandra and the whole family. Sorry I cant attend the service as I am flying to see my daughter on Friday. My thoughts will be with you and I will be there in spirit.
Clint Wilson says
Dear Steve and Sandra; Matthew was an awesome Venturer in my time with him with 1st Erin Scouting! His helpful kindness to others, enthusiasm and strong adventure skills will always live on. He helped Scouting shine!
My deep sympathy, Clint Wilson
Micheline and Paul Turnau says
Dear Sandra and family. Our sincere condolences for your loss. We saw Mathew last winter when he judged at the Caledon Timber Tour event and we enjoyed catching up and hearing about school and his love for nature. He will be greatly missed in the freestyle community.
Casey & Cynthia Hoogendam says
Please accept our heartfelt condolences for the loss of your beloved Mathew. We were so saddened to hear of your loss. Know that we are thinking of you and your family.
Stan Eelhart says
Dear Steven + Sandra, Nathan , Ethan and Emily .
My sincere condolences with the passing of your beloved Mathew. May his vibrant memory sustain you all your days .
Steve and Linda Corbett says
Dear Steve, Sandra, Nathan and Ethan,
We are so very saddened to hear of your loss of Matthew. Our condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to you at your time of sorrow.
Matthew will always be in our memories.
Lots of love
Steve and Linda Corbett
Jim and Anne Dwyer says
Steve, Sandra, Ethan, and Nathan
Our deepest sympathies in your time of loss. We attended the service yesterday and we heard such wonderful stories about Matthew. He wonderful young man and he was taken too soon. May he remain in your hearts forever.
Dave and Tracy McBride says
Sending our sincere condolences.
Rick McClelland says
Steve, I am very sorry to hear of the loss of your son. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.
Tom and Anne Cavan says
Dear Steve and Sandra…
“ A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again.”
—MAYA ANGEL
Only time and tears take away grief; that is what they are for… xo
Tammy, Peter, Olivia & Gabrielle Reynolds says
We are so incredibly sorry for your loss and anguish. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. God bless you and your family.
Janice Trenholm says
Big hugs to you all, he sounded like an amazing young man and knowing his mother I know he was.. love and hope to you all, my condolences and sympathies to all who knew him, especially his loving family and friends
Lynda Thain says
To The Hartman Family,,,I did not have the pleasure of knowing your son, Mathew but I know that he was a fine young man. When I read his obituary it touched my heart for your loss. He was a truly loving person and caring man of his many talents. He loved all the gifts of nature and surrounded himself in it, I am so sorry for your loss of your precious Matthew, Cherish the memories , as he will always live in your heart.
My deepest Condolences,,,,Lynda Thain. Tottenham, Ont.
taylor gibson says
I am so incredibly sorry for the loss of your son Mathew. I am thinking about you and praying for your wonderful family during this very difficult time. Lots of love- Taylor
Rick Mcclelland says
Steve, I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of your son. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.
Joelle Gibson says
Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. May the memories of Mathew bring you comfort and strength in the days ahead.
Joan & Don Hughson says
We’re so very sorry to hear of Mathew’s passing. Our condolences to the family.
Fely Ricardo says
Sandra and Steve,
We are very sorry for your loss. No parents should ever have to experience the pain of losing a son. Our family prays for you and your family’s healing. We hope you find the strength in the love and support of Ethan and Nathan, and all the people that has been part of Matthew’s life.
Dario, Fely and Family.
Shelley Wishart says
Sandra, Steve, Nathan and Ethan, Matthew was much loved and admired by all who knew him. He was a kind and special person. My condolences are with your family.
Katherine Muir Miller says
Sandra , Steve , Nathan & Ethan
Our connection is through the pristine waters of lake Temagami and Camp
Wanapitei. I am heartbroken for you all as words cannot speak of your loss . I see Matthew on his V2 and remember.
My heart goes out to you during this absolute tragic loss. Tne Millers
Dana Liquorish says
Sandra, My deepest heartfelt condolences go out to you and your family at this time. May Matthew’s spirit live forever in your hearts. He will always be the angel by your side. Sincerely, Dana
Heather Castellan says
I extend my deepest sympathies to you and your family. The cherished memories of Mathew during the Temagami Trip and in our homeroom will forever hold a special place in my heart. His absence will be felt, and I hope that your fond recollections bring you solace and tranquility during this challenging period.
Praise Christi says
Sincerest condolences to the Hartman family; as a high school peer of Mathew, I fondly remember the life and joy Mathew brought to his peers and friends. Throughout class and social events, he was a beacon of energy and joy that spread to those around him. Mathew’s presence will be deeply missed, but the impact he had on everyone fortunate enough to know him will endure. He will always be remembered for his adventurous spirit, creativity, and fun-filled outlook on life. My heartfelt condolences to you and their loved ones, and I pray for comfort and peace to surround you.
Deborah Boland & Ian Darcel says
Sandra and Steve, words cannot express how deeply sorry we are for your loss. All the beautiful comments that we have read about Mathew show us how tremendously kind, sweet, and compassionate he was. Mathew was an angel here on earth, as he will be in heaven. We are holding you and your family in our hearts.
Love Deborah and Ian.
Yogi Frost says
So very sorry for the loss of your wonderful son
Dale Armstrong says
Steve and Family;
I extend my sincere condolences to you during this difficult time. The Hartman Family is in my prayers.
Lesli Kennedy says
Steve, Sandra, Nathan, and Ethan; there are no words to express how deeply saddened I am. Your Mathew was a very special young man – so intelligent beyond his years and quick witted. He made our grade 8 class a fun place to be with his curiosity, creativity and love for life. It was a privilege to watch him grow into a kind, compassionate, funny, and unique young man. My heart is broken for you all – I’ll be praying for God’s comfort to surround you. ❤️
Natalie Wilson says
Dear Sandra and Steven, Nathan and Ethan, please know how very deeply sorry I and my family are at Matthew’s passing. From the earliest days at the Maples I was always struck by how intensely focused and passionate Matthew was about Science and Knowledge and Life. I’m sure that anyone who ever met or knew Matthew could not help but to appreciate these qualities and that in the all too short time that he was here with us, he touched and made a huge impression on so many lives. I know that you his family, his friends, his community, his field of interest, his country and indeed the world has lost a brilliant and beautiful soul. Take heart in knowing that he will never be forgotten.
Yvonne Snaddon says
My deepest sympathies to Matthew’s family and friends. May you find comfort in each other while you deal with the hardest thing imaginable. Godspeed Matthew.
Dennis Tonge says
I really wish Stephanie and I could make it to Tottenham for Matthew’s celebration of life and funeral. In his short years, I’m sure there’s many stories of his amazing adventures and his kind spirit. We pray that the Hartman’s sorrow turns into joy for the amazing life Matthew led. Lots of love from Steph and Captain D.
Lauryn Bell says
Dear Hartman family,
I am so very sorry for the loss of of your son and brother. I can see that Mathew was so loved and lived his life to the fullest!
My thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the difficult weeks ahead.
LINDA CAISSIE says
My heart is breaking for you and the family our prayers are with you love your aunt Linda
Wendy Hayes says
Steve, my heartfelt condolences to you and your family on the tragic passing of Matthew. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Blair and Tamara says
Sandra and family , Please accept our condolences at this difficult time. Your neighbours Blair and Tamara.
Nancy Hansen says
Dear Steve, Sandra and family,
No words can express how sorry Chris and I for the loss of your Matthew. By all accounts he was an amazing young man. Know that our thoughts are with you and also the hope that the grief and pain you are now experiencing will soon be replaced with the joyful remembrance of his laughter, his accomplishments, and his love for you and of life.
Sincerely Nancy & Chris Hansen
Barb and Paul Rockett says
Steve, we have you and your entire family in our thoughts and prayers.
Linda and Gene Duval says
Words are not enough… our thoughts and prayers are with you now and always…..
Lorella and David Brennen says
Steve and Sandra, we are deeply sorry for your tremendous loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family at this incredibly difficult time.
Carly Campoli says
I rode the bus to CDS with Mathew every morning and after school until the day he got his license. He was quiet, but was always incredibly kind and cracked some great jokes on the way home. In his first year at CDS he and I went on a dog sledding trip and I vividly remember all of the laughs we had. My most fond memory was when we all had a snowball fight. I came away with quite a few battle wounds – man, did he ever know how to pack a snowball! I was also there to see him and Em go from friends to loving partners and hearing how happy he made Em, I knew they were perfect for each other. Although Mathew and I lost touch after high school, I see myself as incredibly lucky to have the memories of him that I do. My deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, Em and everyone that knew him.
Patricia Vallas says
So very sorry for your loss! I worked with Matthew at the Apple Orchard for a couple of years and he was always so helpful when we needed things at the concession stand! He was super sweet, kind and funny! Such a great person! He will be missed so so much!
George Babits says
Steve, Sandra and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. May Mathew’s spirit and all the beautiful memories you made together, live on forever. Please accept my deepest, heartfelt sympathies.
George Babits
Gregory Boyce says
Oh Steve this is so sad. Words are puny and of little help in comparison to grief so I’ll just say that in my cosmology we don’t cease to exist, so you’ll reunite in due course. Sending you love …
David Downer says
My condolences to the family for your loss. Matthew left us far too soon. He was a beacon of positivity and typically in tandem with Emily. There was no such thing as a bad conversation with Matthew; you always felt better after an encounter with him. He will be sorely missed.
Julia Garbe says
I got to know Mathew a little on a Temagami canoe trip. He was a funny outgoing guy who was fun fo be around and always had a huge smile.
Margorie Grime says
Sandra, Steve, Ethan and Nathan my sincerest condolences to you and Matthew’s friends and family. Your lives are forever changed. Sharing his passion for life will be his legacy. He had so many incredible experiences and amazing family times. Rest in peace Matthew. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sherri Belton and Tim Sinclair says
Hi Steve and Sandra,
Sherri and I were so sad to hear about the passing of Mathew. There are no words to express how hard it must be to lose a child (young adult) like you have. We will be praying for Mathew and all of you through this difficult time.
Your description of his life and the love that surrounded him was beautiful.
Take care
Sherri and Tim
Lori Spence says
Sandra, Steve, Nathan, Ethan and Family,
Our hearts go out to you all. Mathew’s spirit will live on, and be with you forever.
Our deepest condolences.♥️
Christina and Frederik Beelaerts van Blokland says
Dearest Sandra and Steve, Frederik, Sophia, Max, Ollie and Nicholas join me in sending you our deepest condolences for your loss. Matthew was a lovely little boy when we first met him 17 years ago on our move to Caledon. And he grew up into a fine young man. Your love for him, and for Nathan and Ethan, came through in everything you did in your lives. And I pray that that love will now give you the strength you need going ahead. My heart goes out to you all, I will take your words and carry Matthews memory with me and remember what a beautiful soul he was. Much love to you all, Christina BvB
Brett, Jon and Amelia says
Aunt Sandra, Uncle Steve, cousins Ethan, & Nathan,
Thinking of each of you and holding you in our hearts and minds. We are so immensely sorry. Heaven gained their most adventurous angel. ❤️ love you all.
Michael Burrows says
Steve, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your son. I am thinking of you and your family during this very difficult time.
Andy Lennox says
Steve and family. So very very sorry to learn of your tragic loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Mary Jo Daigle says
Sandra and Steven and family,
My sincere condolences and my heart goes out to you all.
May Matthew’s love and spirit be with you every day.
You are all in my prayers.
Tanis , Bill and Cooper Mack says
We are heartbroken for all of you. Know we are thinking of you during this difficult time.
Love ,
The Macks
Nicole and Ryner Haupt says
Ryner and I send our love and condolences to your family and your extended families. We are so sorry for your loss. Mathew’s bright light will always be carried by those whose lives he has touched. We are sending much love to you and your family.
Kim and Karl Crossman says
Sandra and family
We are so very sorry to hear of your loss.
Such a young , handsome man gone too soon.
Please know we are thinking of you all.
Kim and Karl Crossman
Xoxo ❤️
Norm Clarke says
Steve, my heart goes out to you and your family…. just a parent’s worst nightmare. My deepest sympathies to you, Sandra, Ethan and Nathan.
Take comfort in the fact that even though Mathew has passed away, his spirit still lives on in the memories you have shared together and all the beautiful moments you experienced together. Petra and I share in your sorrow and we’ll be thinking of you.
Kevin Crossman says
I’d like to extend sincere condolences to his entire family and his multitude of friends. My thoughts are with you all at this sad time.
Eddy Mariotti says
What a beautiful obituary about Mathew .
I am so sorry for your loss . My thoughts and prayers are with you all
Eddy MARIOTTI
Jeremy Garbe says
Mathew was a kind, creative, active, and artistic person who knew how to make those around him smile. In short, he was a blessing.
My deepest condolences.
Michele Cole says
Deepest condolences. You are in my prayers.
Kristian Adamek says
I’m so sorry for your loss. It was an honour to of met and spent time with Mathew. He brighten up the whole lab with his presence. He will be dearly missed by so many.
Bill and Ruth Flynn says
We are so grieved in heart at your tragic loss. He’s gone way way too soon. The void in your family will be palpable for years to come. He will forever be missed.
Harold Mccarthy says
Sandra and family you have my deepest heartfelt condolances may hod be with you and may he hold his newest angel close and let his light shine on you always love always Harold