Mathew Smith

Mathew Roger Smith (AKA: Fat Mat) was born in Florida on Aug. 21, 1962, and died in Hatch, NM on May 10, 2021. He was preceded in death by his father, older brother, mother and daughter, Molly Shay. He is survived by a sister in Michigan and several nieces and nephews. He was also a grandfather to Molly Shay's children. Mat had a big personality and the gift of the gab. He was extremely well-read, well-traveled and knew how to connect deeply with people. He used to make the rounds in the tiny town of Nederland, CO., visiting all of his friends and helping them with their needs, whether they were ill, hungry or lonely. His nickname, Fat Mat, was not a commentary on his physical girth, but rather, upon his generous heart. He always gave over and above what he had, preferring to go without himself if he could heartily bless another. He experienced a lot more than most folks do in 58 years, even tho he never felt like he fit in to the American Dream. In this life, he was the most free man I have ever known, and he lived that way until his last day. He will forever be missed.