We Remember
GARBELYA, Matthew
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On June 22, 2022, Matthew Garbelya passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at the age of 67 in Kelowna, BC.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 44 years Donna; his children Micah (Crystal), Sarah (Kevin), and Daniel (Samantha); grandchildren Owen, Kailen, Theo, and Ethan; his siblings Ivan, Dolly, and Sheila; parents-in-law Don and Marie Iveson; brothers and sisters-in-law; Andi, Chuck, Darcy, Debbie, Diane, Grant, Rich and Steve; and very dear friends Beth, Richard, Jim, and Debbie. Matthew was predeceased by his parents Gertrude and Matthew.
Matt was born in Prince Rupert, BC in 1955. In 1975 he met Donna, the love of his life. They were married in 1978 and had a wonderful life together. In 1981 they had a son Micah. Daughter Sarah was born in 1984, and son Daniel in 1987. The family moved to Kelowna in 1989.
Matt was so proud of his family, he was such a loving husband, father, and Papa. Matt loved to meet his friends for coffee and had many tales to tell. He loved to travel, golf, and have a good meal and a beer with friends. He liked to keep fit and was frequently at the gym. Matt coached with Rutland Minor Baseball from 1992 – 2005.
He worked for School District 23 from 1990 – 2020. He always had a good work ethic and a helping hand to offer to friends.
Matt died surrounded by his family that he loved so much. He fought hard to try to beat cancer but it wasn’t possible. His only regret was that he didn’t have enough time to watch his grandchildren grow up and to do the wonderful things he had planned to do in retirement.
The family wishes to have a private gathering at a later date.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Donna, I’m so sorry you’ve lost Matt. I only met him once, but his good nature and kind spirit shone through.
My condolences to you and your family.
Donna & Family, we were so saddened to hear of Matt’s passing, we just want you to know how sorry we are for the loss of your loved one. Hold him close to your heart.
Sending Love & Hugs from our family to yours❤️
Donna, I am deeply saddened with Matt’s passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Goodbye Uncle Matt. You were a kind and gentle man always chuckling and agreeable.
Theirs people & theirs individuals like MATT who exemplified the true character of a man husband father & grandfather living life with honour honesty & sacrifice. .he will b sorely missed by all & fought courageously in his battle while trying to live in his retirement dream home and maintaining inner strength.!❤️. His family is a reflection of his & Donnas character.. ..
Dear Donna and family,
Deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy in the loss of your loved one. May the special memories of Matt that you hold in your hearts, carry you through this difficult time.
Love and sympathy,
Laurie Longden (DeBray)
Dear Donna, Micah, Sarah and Daniel and in- laws. Our deepest and sincere condolences on your loss. Matt was a great father and loving husband. May you cherish his life, and the time spent together.
From Toronto, Aunt Milena Garbel (Grbelja then Garbelja, then Garbel) cousin John, Peter jr. (Gabriel)and Christine.
Bless you all and may Matthew rest in peace.
Donna, my heart breaks for you and your family. Matt was such a lovely human being, and it was such a pleasure to have known him for so many years. Sending you so much love and support as you navigate through this challenging time. The beautiful life you had together and the wonderful memories will hopefully help you through the pain.
Saddest news to hear. Thinking of you Donna, he will be missed i know.
My thoughts are with you♥️
Dear Donna and Family.
Peter and I are so so sorry to hear about Matt’s passing. Mattt had such a wonderful sense of family and a very infectious smile . I know this will be a long journey for you Donna and please know our hearts are very sad for you and your family.
Kathy and Peter
Matt’s generosity of spirit positivity imprinted many lives, both directly, and indirectly for generations to come. The far reaching effects of our choices was something Matt seemed to full comprehend.
As a child I remember talking with sister Darcy about how handsome you were, but it was your willingness to engage with us and the nieces and nephews that followed that left a lasting impression. Your caring, open, and direct style of interacting was inspiring, and appreciated by those who value genuineness, and courage
above all else.
Thank you Matt for choosing my sweetheart of a sister, Donna to be your life’s partner, your choosing her is a reflection of the wisdom you embodied. I won’t say goodbye because I believe although your physicality could no longer encapsulate your energy, the essence of you remains in the lives you touched, and in the stillness of creation.
I am very sad to hear of Matt’s passing. I worked with Matt at SD23 from 1995 to 2003 where Matt taught me more than a few things about plumbing, gas and how to be professional in my work. I will remember Matt as a great man and role model! My condolences to Donna and his loving family.
Mathew was a great friend of ours. I will miss his laughter. I will miss his quirky sense of making the installations perfect. Mostly, I will miss my coffee buddy. Matthew didn’t have a hidden agenda, what you saw is what you got. Hard-working, loving, caring, and just an honest friend. We love you, and will miss you buddy, Jim and Helen.
Dear Donna and Family, Judy and I just heard of Matt’s passing, we moved to Calgary in April and are deeply saddened by his loss. We both enjoyed our talks and occasional walks with the both of you. Matt was always in good spirits and it was our privilege to have known him. He was a kind and gentle soul and will be missed. Our deepest sympathies.
Donna, so sorry to hear about Matthew’s passing. Matthew and I were great friends and neighbors growing up on Herman Street in prince Rupert from 1955 to 1964. Unfortunately, I never did reconnect with Matthew after leaving Rupert. I will cherish the special memories of our younger years in Rupert. Please take care.