Matthew John Coates

January 12, 1966 - December 25, 2022

“Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies.” - The Shawshank Redemption

Matt was the beloved son of Aurita and Jack Coates, brother to Christine (Jack), Janet (Clyde), Kim, and Brad, loving Uncle to Jack, Sam, Lily, Natalie, and Ryan. He was a dear cousin, godfather, and devoted friend. Matty’s genuine warmth and kindness will be remembered by all who knew him.

He was born in San Francisco, grew up in San Bruno, and played Pee-Wee baseball and football for Capuchino and the College of San Mateo. Matt graduated from UC San Diego with a BA in Communications. He worked with his family for 31 years at Golden State Flooring.

Matt spent summers in Lake Tahoe and enjoyed traveling to Colombia, Thailand, and throughout Europe. He followed the Giants and the 49ers, loved listening to old school music, watching action movies and re-runs of Law & Order. Matthew was committed to his recovery and an active member of AA. In 2019 Matt was diagnosed with ALS and fought hard through it all, committed to the spirit of the line, “to get busy living.” On good days, Matt’s keen sense of humor and his bright blue eyes shined. Matt and his family are grateful for the wonderful care he received from Margarita, Jahaira, Marta, and Paul.

Matthew left this world on Christmas day. Matt was truly a gift.

A memorial mass will be held at St. Roberts Church, 1380 Crystal Springs Rd., San Bruno on Saturday, January 14th at 12:30 pm, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The ALS Association Golden West Chapter or a charity of your choice.