Matthew Thomas Brown

May 16, 1960 - June 18, 2018 Resident of San Jose

Matthew Thomas Brown passed on from this life on Monday, June 18, at the age of 58. He is survived by his wife, Lauren, and children, Adam and Madelyn. He also leaves behind his mother, Barbara, sisters Peggy Johnston and Janet Rohrer, and their extended families.

He was born in San Jose where he made his lifelong home. Above all else, Matt loved his family and friends. He enjoyed soccer, fishing, playing the harmonica, 4-wheeling, and following his favorite sports teams. His passions included dogs, spending time in nature, tending his vegetable garden, reading, and poetry. Matt was adventurous and lived life with gusto.

A journeyman plumber with UA Local 393 in San Jose for 20 years, Matt was hard-working and precise as he mentored many apprentices in his craft during his career. At age 40, he changed professions to join Cal Fire as a firefighter. He received great joy in that role and his enthusiasm and leadership were highly valued. Embodying the values and purposes of the firefighting community, he rose to the challenges with enthusiasm and vigor and proudly protected others.

Matt was very generous, donating monthly to several charities like the YWCA, Second Harvest Food Bank, Salvation Army, and the Richard J. Ernest Scholarship for Firefighters. He delivered meals for Meals On Wheels and frequently gave care packages to the homeless in San Jose.

Fiercely wringing every drop of life out of the time he had, Matt bravely fought a 7-year battle with cancer. Gone too soon, he was a principled man true to his convictions and a life-long friend with unwavering loyalty to many. Matt was loved by many and will be deeply missed.