Matthew Lee Shakes
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Matthew's obituary
Matthew Lee Shakes, 36, of Salt Lake City, UT, was born November 11, 1989, in Vista, CA, to parents Cristi and Lee Shakes. He was immensely loved by his family, having a loving bond with them both, despite being countries away at times.
After the passing of his mother, he lived with his grandmother, Janis, where they became inseparable. They moved several times throughout his childhood, from California, Arizona, Las Vegas, to staying in New Zealand with his father for up to 6 months at a time, he always left with loving friends that he continued to speak to well into adulthood.
During his time in New Zealand, he was inseparable from his sisters, Bella and Kendall, and shared a special bond with his grandparents, Bev and Dave. He always looked back on those years with such fondness. He loved sharing stories of his Kiwi background, likely with the fun fact that New Zealand is not on some maps.
Following Matt and Janis’s move to Utah, Janis unexpectedly brought home a cat after a day of volunteering at the humane society. Matt had no chance to dissuade her, falling in love with Samuel at first sight. Matt loved animals—whether it was a well‑trained working dog, a stray cat outside his home, or the neighborhood squirrels, animals were drawn to him like a magnet. For several years, Samuel suffered from chronic lung disease. From vet appointments to daily medications, Matt provided Samuel with a much longer, beautiful life. This truly showed how selfless he was, taking on the burdens of those he loved and treating them as his own, doing anything he could to make those around him happy.
In recent years, Matt shared his life with his partner, Yvonne. They met in 2020, beginning their relationship that November. In their five years together, they shared many beautiful memories, including the addition of their dog and two cats. He was more than her partner—he was family. His love, humor, and authenticity always brightened their home.
Matt’s life had many trials, but his strength, love, and selflessness through it all touched and inspired many. May Matthew rest peacefully with the ones he loves.
Matthew Shakes passed away on January 28, 2026, he will always be remembered for the love and care he showed to his family, friends, and animals.
Matthew is survived by his sisters, Bella and Kendall; his aunt, Annaleise; his stepmother, Tracy; his uncle, Neil; his partner, Yvonne; and their beautiful animals, Aloe, Chibi, and Panda.
Matthew is predeceased by his mother, Cristi; his father, Lee; his grandparents, Janis, Victor, Bev, and Dave; his uncle, Craig; and the animals whose lives he touched, including his beloved cat, Samuel.
A celebration of life will be held March 5th from 4:30 to 6:30—Located at Wild Sage Utah 1480 Orchard Dr Suite 113, Bountiful, UT 84010—all who knew and love Matthew are invited to attend.
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