Dear Jen -- Matt truly was a visionary with great intellect and passion. We first met in Chicago, mid 1990s, when he was at BCG and I was at Pittway Corp. My fledgling VC interests were immediately drawn to Matt's brilliance and his ability to succinctly and convincingly communicate ideas, both complex and simple. He was also a really good guy, the kind of guy I wanted to back...and did as his initial angel/seed investor in LeagueLink.  I hope your children will know that their father was someone who earned my respect, both as a businessperson and as a human being.  He followed his dreams and clearly they will live on both in his memory and in his loved ones. All of my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

I only met Matt once: at the wedding of his dad, Nile, to Tara Koch. As his father's Best Man, Matt delivered the most humorous, yet touching toast to the new bride and groom I'd ever heard. In a matter of two minutes he made my friend, Tara, feel 100% welcomed into the McAdams clan. He also captured the hearts of the entire room with his remarks - and we all wished WE could have a son/stepson that cool!

Jen,

It was a shock to hear about Matt. I was just telling a Senware story to a friend a few days ago and thought I should look up some of the old names to see where they were. Matt was a rare person who lead with passion and pushed people to do more than they thought they could.  My sincerest condolences.

-- Rod Brown

Jen, Abbie and Luke -
Our thoughts and prayers are with you guys. We all remember Matt cheering on both kiddos at the pool!

Our sincerest condolences.
The Kingston Family
Dean, Lisa, Addie & Liana

Matt: Your indomitable spirit will be missed. 
Abbie and Luke: I knew your Mom and Dad way before you were born. They were a beautiful, smart, happy couple who looked forward to having kids and you both were the answers to their dreams. 

Your Dad will be remembered as an amazing, intelligent, resourceful entrepreneur who had no end of ideas but the smarts to chose one and stick with it. He was a great friend and resource to me in the digital world and when I needed good advice and direction I called upon him. Your Mom set some of her business efforts aside to raise you but she was his equal partner in all things. They were a great match and very supportive of each other. 

Matt will be missed and remembered for his energy, enthusiasm and intellect that set him apart. You were blessed to be his and your Mom's offspring. Love and hugs in your time of offs. Kathryn

Jen, Abbie, and Luke--
I am terribly sorry for your loss. I was in Matt's starting class at BCG 18 years ago, and I have a number of fond memories of him. I will most remember how tremendously witty he was--lightning quick with a joke, and always a step ahead of everyone. All who were at BCG Chicago at the time will remember Matt as "Matt Farley" in a class follies video, and I think we'd unanimously cite that as one of the funniest things we'd ever seen. That was just one of many times that Matt made us laugh.

My life is better for having known Matt, and my thoughts are with you in this very challenging time.

One of our friends below mentioned the video Matt did with his BCG colleagues back in 1997. I couldn't get the video to upload to this site, but I put it up on Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FD0CRKAw6Nw). Matt's portion of the video runs from about 9:50 - 15:10

Jen, our most sincere condolences. We are deeply saddened for your loss. We will keep your family in our thoughts during this difficult time.

We first met Matt through Cub Scout Pack 613 Executive Committee. His dedication to the boys in the Den and the Pack really impressed us. We are so thankful that he welcomed us into the Pack and got us involved. We had a blast putting together a booth at the Scout Show with him. 

Jen, we are so sorry for your loss and please know that the entire Pack sends love and support to you and the kids.

- Rob, Michelle and Christopher Applegate

Jen, my heart goes out to you, Luke and Abby. You are such a special family, full of laughter, joy and smiles. That is exactly how we remember Matt... smiling, laughing and encouraging. His warmth and generosity has forever made a mark on so many lives in this community. I will never forget the time, Matt and Luke found Mojo when he was lost. They got Mojo to chase them, so they could get him back to our house. When I saw them running up my street with Mojo, they were laughing and having the best time...it was so sweet. I pray you are able to reflect on all the joyful moments you have shared and that you, Luke and Abby are able to heal from this heartache. My love, thoughts and prayers are with you all. Love always, Audrey

As a teammate for CMS Track & Field, I always used to admire the goofiness and positive spirit of the distance runners, and Matt was right in the middle of all of that, if not leading the charge. Twenty-five years later, the thing that I remember about Matt is his smile; he always had a smile or a joke, and was always cheering on his teammates. I knew he was a good man, and was so glad that you two found each other. Jen, I will hold you and your kids in prayer. May God bless you, watch over you, and bring you peace.

I met Matt my first day at college. He took me under his wing a bit, giving me a hard time for being a farm boy from Iowa. I am from Iowa but not from a farm. I found out a few weeks later that Matt was from Wayzata, MN and his grandparents were from Dows, IA (population 500). That was Matt. We ran a lot together. We ran places we shouldn’t. I followed because Matt was a leader. Run through the aquaducts in Laverne? OK. Run along the runway at Cable airport? OK. Matt took me to In N Out and camping for my first time. He sent me my first instant message online. We went prospecting for gold once but didn’t find any. He gave me advice, friendship, and hours of interesting discussions. Matt was probably smarter than me and I can only say that about a handful of people. Matt knew he was smarter than me and everybody else around him. He didn’t brag; he recognized the truth. Matt got married, moved away, had kids. I visited him once in Colorado. We lost touch. I meant to visit again, some day. Rime ran out. I’ll miss you Matt.

To the McAdams Family,

My only interactions with Matt were during parent/teacher conferences at CA, but his appreciation for my role as Abbey's teacher was palpable and made an immediate impression on me. More than anything, Matt's legacy as the father of two incredible kids will live on. Abbey is one of the most thoughtful and kind kids I have taught. She is a resilient and shares her fathers, quirky and infectious sense of humor. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.

-Forbes Cone-

I'm shocked and saddened to hear of Matt's passing. He was a good friend, and a better guy. He made the years we spent together at Mudd more fun, and more challenging. I'll you.

Matt was one of the caring, brilliant, wonderful, and let's face it, kinda goofy, guys I've known. I mean, who picks his wife up at a baggage claim...literally? His sense of humor left us moaning or scratching our heads most of the time, but always with a smile no matter. We shared many good times together in Claremont, on cross country and track, and even on all to rare visits over the past number of years. He always tried to give me love advice and I took it to heart from someone who was such a great boyfriend and husband to my dear friend Jen. I couldn't wait to introduce him to Ben to show that I took at least some of the advice! Of course, one of those times Matt and Jen showed up an hour late from brunch in NYC because they forgot about the time change, but hey... What can we say, the world is a lesser place without Matt's presence. But his legacy lives on in the kids and wife he loved so, and in all of us who loved him, and love them, too. With sympathy, Heidi Rivkin

Matt was a terrific friend and co-runner at CMS. We ran together for a couple of years. He was certainly a larger-than-life character with an infectious, quirky sense of humor. I can vividly hear his quick-witted snarky jokes. What a treasure that will surely be missed. My prayers are with you guys during this difficult time. Blessings- Eric Blum

Our most sincere condolences,

I think Matt's greatest joy and accomplishment (and he had many) was his relationship with you, Abbie and Luke. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. The Armintrouts

We didn't know Matt well, but Jen invited Shelby to be on the girls soccer team in 2nd grade when we had just moved here from CA. Soon after, I got to know Jen through some other 2nd grade Moms and we got to know the family from there. Soccer was not Shelby's thing but Matt was a great coach and team leader and definitely helped Shelby integrate into her new community. As well, as a runner, I felt a special affinity for Matt and Jen knowing they both did XC in college..so cool! My singular impression of Matt is that he was a devoted family man, with supreme intelligence and compassion for not only his own children but the community. Most sincere condolences Jen to you and the kids and your extended family for losing a wonderful father and husband. Peace and love, Polly, Dave, Shelby and Campbell.

Jen, my sincere condolences to you and your family. 

Gianna Ficco

We didn't work together for long, but Matt made a lasting impression on me. So witty, so accomplished, so quirky, so very bright and so full of ideas. I recall getting into a discussion with him where I immediately realized I was over my head. He knew it, I knew it, and he stopped and backed it down and explained it to me so that I could get to his level, not so that I felt bad being at mine. He inspired me to move on in action and I was blessed to have had him consult with me even after we worked together. I will always remember Matt for being a positive influence, a good friend, and someone I truly admire. He taught me that it is better to keep asking questions than to pretend to know the answer. If someone that smart can ask me so many questions, why can't I do the same? Jen, kids, there are no words to make this go away or pass easier, but there is also nothing that will take away the memories and shared joys. I am so sorry for this loss. With love, Scott Orr

I am so sorry for your loss. I had the privilege of working with Matt over the years. It goes without saying that he was one of the brightest people I have ever worked with, but even more importantly he was so funny and kind. I will never forget how encouraging he was when I ran my first triathlon. I still can hear his voice cheering me on. 

He was one of the good guys and he will be truly missed.

This is a tough one to write not only because of the situation, but because I have so many things that I would like to say. Top five memories that I feel epitomize Matt (at least to me):
1. The Chris Farley sketch he produced for BCG (I think).
2. Fishing with Matt and my father-in-law Gary off the Mendocino coast and seeing him boat a huge red snapper, then watching my father-in-law limit out an abolone bag, and then seeing Matt kissing that fish in a photo. Classic.
3. Watching Matt have so much fun with the kids (my two boys and Abbie and Luke) in an inflatable pool. First he was having everyone run in a circle to create a "whirlpool", then it was keeping everyone perfectly still to make it "as smooth as glass". Sorry Matt, Gavin can't do that.
4. The summer of 2013 when we went to Water World with my two boys and Abbie and Luke. Not only was it great to see him tackle the slides, but it was even better when we got hit by a summer thunderstorm. They were closing the place down, Luke's face was covered in funnel cake, we were all irritated because we wanted to go on more slides, but they were making everyone leave. Matt says, "Hey, let's go on one more slide. What are they going to do, kick us out?"
5. Talking about fabricating a zamboni out of a push broom and pvc pipe to smooth the ice in his backyard rink. Who does that? Too funny!

Abbie and Luke, know your dad was a quality man. He was driven, willing to take risks to chase his passions, and he loved you two very much. I always loved to brag about him to people I work with because he was by far a one of a kind. Jen, I am pretty sure you know all of that, but it never hurts to hear it again. While I am so very sad, I can't help but smile when I think of the fun times I spent with Matt. I love you all.

Jen,

I am so sorry for your loss.

Kesha (Wilson) Robinson CMC '98

Jen,

Matt was a wonderful man and I’m so incredibly sorry to hear the news. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers and we are we are sending lots of lots of love your way. - Jeff

Matt was one of THE MOST IMPRESSIVE PERSONS I've ever met in my entire life. He was a loving husband & father, a genius in many ways, a comedian, an athlete, and a friend.

Some of my favorite memories:
Matt talking our way out of a traffic ticket from shady cops in Mexico.
Matt hopping the fence at Folsom prison during a jog.
Matt getting out of a Michigan hot tub & jumping right into the snow.
Matt inventing "the Ranker" computer program to figure out who the best football teams are.
Matt teaching me how to use Napster to get "free" music.
Matt building an ice rink in his back yard for his kids.
Matt renting Beverly Hills Ninja in Illinois.

Love you Matt. -Jim

Jen, Abbie and Luke,
The summer swim season will never be the same without Matt. So many hours spent laughing and joking with Matt as he kept us and especially the kids entertained during the swim meets. Ma'kena loved hanging with Matt and Luke and always had a smile on her face when I looked over at them. I appreciate his patience, kindness and incredible sense of humor. 
Also, Matt and his wicked smart 'invention ideas' will always make me smile. He had the best ideas!
Sending you all love and prayers,
Sandra Hammer

Dear Jen, Abbie and Luke.  Our love and prayers are for you. In your loss we hope good memories will comfort you. Fondly remembering a loving and caring man who always knew life was for enjoying and living to the full. Who else builds an ice rink in their back yard? Peace to you. Love Rosie and family x

Matt and I met through EO, he always had a smile, was humble, and secure in who he was as a leader, father, and husband. He strived to become a better human being and in my opinion made it. I will miss the opportunity to have another Cervesa with him but will hold dear our meetings. One helluva guy.

Matt was such a happy, helpful person and so engaged in supporting the kids at the pool. He will be missed and I am so sorry for everyone's loss of such a wonderful man. His short time was blessed with an amazing family and the memories will live forever.

Jen, Abby and Luke
There is nothing I can say that will lesson the hurt you are feeling, just
know I love you all and will treasure Matt's memory. Our family was
blessed to have had Matt. Wish I could be with you all, but will plan a
visit when you least expect it and until then know you are in my heart
and prayers.
Auntie Wanda

I had the privilege of being Matt's teammate for two years and the even bigger privilege of coaching him for two years. I have so many great memories of him. From being nationals super-fans together, receiving the baton from him as we helped break the school 4x16 record, coaching him and his teammates as they re-broke the record the next year and being the reason he lost a bet I didn't know he had made. My favorite memory, though, is him recounting how he met Jen for the first time. Jen, I am so very sorry for your loss. Abbie and Luke, I hope to be able to tell you what a great man your dad was in person someday. Matt, I am going to miss you buddy.
-Kelly Beck

Jen,
I am so sorry for your loss. I met Matt my freshman year of college when we both took Intro French. He was funny and kind and helpful, and even all those years ago, was falling head over heels for you. I can't express how sorry and shocked I am to hear this.

-- Holly (Biggs) Stout

Jen,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the children. Matt made a tremendous impact on many over his life. 
Love and sympathy to you all.
Kristina Scala

Jen, Abbie and Luke,
When I think about Matt I think about walking around your neighborhood trick-or-treating and talking about creating a new app to map out the types of candy and number that different houses give out.  I thought he was funny, kind and generous. He made us feel comfortable and welcome in your home as I'm sure he did for all of your guests. It was obvious how very much he loved each of you and how proud he was of you for being the people you are. Our love to each of you.
Love,
Amanda Pouliot

The first time we had Jen and Matt over for dinner the conversation somehow turned to linguistics. Matt told me that he knew a little about it because one of his relatives was a linguist. He tried to impress us with the use of the word, "schwa". I pointed at him, unintentionally flinging potatoes in his direction and yelled, "Shut your schwa". He laughed super hard. That will always make me smile!

So many of my memories of Matt have to do with what it was like being in a conversation with him (wow, it is so hard putting that in past tense). Talking to Matt was so fun, stimulating, intellectually taxing, and lively. On one hand, Matt seemed clear and consistent in his beliefs and outlooks - that is inspiring to me. On the other hand, sometimes I had no idea what he would say next and I loved that, too. Just when I thought he was being serious he would turn silly. And vice versa.

When he got one of the first iphones, I was not yet a believer. The way that he patiently explained to me and demonstrated why I would love it was both compelling and sweet. It was like he was pretending to leave room for me to make a different choice while knowing all along he would convince me. He always seemed to be 12 steps ahead and with me and I think with his loved ones most of the time was willing to come back for us.

Speaking of which, I will always remember a late night conversation we had about what it was like to generally be one of the smarter people in the room (I am softening the wording - those of you who knew Matt well know what I mean :). The way he intellectually understood his intellect was fascinating to me. It was funny because he was teaching me this standard deviation theory of understanding other people's intelligence - and the whole time I was wondering where mine fell on that curve. Am I smart enough to really know how smart he was? Probably not and he was so wonderful to be with that I was always ok with that.

And there was a night by a campfire where he explained this whole complex vision he had for something he wanted to build - it was so detailed and thought through it amazed me. And, like the iphone, he painted a picture of a place that I wanted to exist and I wanted to go to. The way he could see things that weren't yet there was incredible.

I saw so many dimensions of his intelligence and I remember him telling me that the intellectual world was more logical and easier for him to navigate.  But we knew that his ability to love, connect, support and be with people was just as huge as his intellect. I don't know if he fully knew that about himself. And the way he loved Jen, Abbie and Luke was so deep, pure and complete - you could see it in his eyes when he looked at them and spoke of them. And even when he shifted the conversation back to business, you could still see that sparkle of love in his eyes.

I am so heartbroken for all of you and all of Matt's family. Know that we are sending you love and healing and whatever you need...

Jen, we want to let Abbie and Luke know the lasting impression their dad made on us in the handful of opportunities we had the pleasure of hanging with him. First and foremost, we have always admired his ambition. No goal was ever too big, and he was the first real example of a "high performer" that we encountered when we were still early in our careers back at eBags (well, quite honestly, the two of you fit that bill). It's clear to us that he had true courage and wasn't going to let grass grow under his feet. We're certain he has passed those admirable traits onto both of his children. Love and prayers to you all. - The Hauckes (Dave, Glory, Marley and Ocean)

Jen, I have fond memories of visiting Matt with you when he was in grad school at Cal Tech and we were both in college at Claremont. He was funny and super-smart and very kind, and so obviously loved you very much. Your X-C friend, Amy

Jen,

One of my fondest memories of Matt is from the day that you two met. His face was absolutely beaming with joy as he described the details of your first "date."

With love and sympathy,
Sybil Anne (Duncan) Strimbu

While I sadly never had a chance to get to know Matt well, I do recall seeing a bright smile on his face every time I saw him at the grocery store, school or a neighborhood gathering. Jen, Abbie and Luke, I'm saddened by your loss and the loss to our community. My heart and prayers are with you all...we are here to help and will reach out. - Nicole Aulik

I will remember Matt as a jokester with a great heart. He was always making us laugh and was the life of the group. He also was as smart and hard working as anyone I know, and I am not surprised that he has been so successful. He will be missed and my thoughts go out to Jen and the kids.

--David Summers, HMC

Jen, I am so so sorry for your loss. You two were one of my early examples of a great partnership, and I remember being amazed at how you could get by in LA with only one car (THAT is commitment and love). My heart goes out to you and the kids. Sending love and healing from Northern California. - Christina Romero