It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Matthew (Matt) Sydney Blanchard on July 2, 2025. We deeply mourn the loss of a beloved partner, son, brother and friend who possessed the gentlest soul and most loving heart with a ready smile and laugh that would light up every room he entered.
Matt’s parents were overjoyed to welcome their first born on July 31, 1983 in Midland, Ontario. He was a loving son who became the caring and supportive big brother to twins Sean and Ryan, and baby brother Ben. The family moved to Rossland BC where he attended elementary school then Canoe BC for his high school years. Matt stayed in the Shuswap area with his soulmate Jana Nelson until June 2023 when they moved to Edmonton AB with their now deceased pugs Jack and Yzerman. Last July, pup Chester joined their family ~a great comfort to Jana at this time.
In his early years, Matt loved exploring the many hills in and around Rossland and spending time with his Dad and brothers finding the best huckleberry patches to bring home to his Mom. He was a devoted son who was eager to be in the kitchen helping cook and clean. This surely influenced his career in the food industry and passion for the outdoors, especially fishing.
Matt tried his hand at various jobs including auto mechanics with his Uncle Art, and construction with his Uncle Emmett before settling on a career in the food service industry. For over 10 years, Matt was the driving force behind everyone receiving quality food and service at the Hyde Mountain Golf Course in Sicamous BC. Whether a quick bite was needed before tee time, or tournament with up to 250 attendees required feeding, Matt had the skills to get it done. His superpower was being sure everyone in his orbit was well looked after.
Matt is loved and dearly missed by the love of his life Jana Nelson and her son Shayne; his brothers Sean and Ben with sister in law Stevie; his large extended family; and many friends. Matt was predeceased by his parents Camellia and Patrick Blanchard, brother Ryan, grandparents, Aunt Jacquie and Uncle James Mitchell, Uncle Dale Blanchard, and cousins Jeff and Nathan Reed. We will forever miss your magnificent smile, helpful ‘big brother’ ways, and loving hugs. May the passage of time lesson the grief we feel from losing you, and help us learn to embrace you in the loving memories of all we shared. Rest in Eternal Peace Matt.
The family would like to thank the Doctors and Nurses in Edmonton for the care and compassion they gave Matt over the past two years. In lieu of flowers, please donate in Matt’s memory to a healthcare service or animal rescue charity of your choice.
Leave Your Condolence