The world lost a gentle soul when our Matty Gow passed away. Matthew Walker McGinley Gow, son of James Gow and Moira McGinley, brother to Emily (Shua) and Adam, grandson to Evelyn Gow, will be profoundly missed by his family. He was a special son, brother, nephew, cousin, friend, teammate, and a big buddy to anybody under four feet.
Matthew believed he lived a privileged life. His large close-knit family and his circle of life long friends loved him absolutely and unconditionally. 
It gave him the strength and the power to endure his tougher moments and always gave him hope for kinder tomorrows. Never judging, wise, honest, loyal and loving, we are all so very grateful for what he taught us. As his friends would tell you, Matt’s sense of humour never took a day off, no matter what.
Matthew attended Willows Elementary and Oak Bay High. He was a talented athlete who spent his youth playing Minor Hockey at the VRCMHA, Minor Lacrosse with Saanich, baseball at American Little League, Intermediate and Junior Lacrosse with the Victoria Shamrocks, and five years of Junior Hockey in the BCJHL. The past ten years Matthew worked in the local Victoria painting community.
Today, our hearts are broken. But tomorrow, as we remember Matty Gow, we will laugh easily and often. That is what he would want us to do.
We sincerely thank all the extraordinary people within the mental health community that helped and cared for Matthew – especially Dr. Bosley, Dr. Blasco, and Matthew’s exceptional counsellor Darryl Jackson. Matthew was grateful. He felt you were all so wise.
Please consider making a donation to the Archie Courtnall Center in Matthew’s honour.
www.victoriahf.ca/our-hospitals/mental-health/
There will be a Celebration of Life for Matthew on Saturday, June 3, 2017 at 1pm at McCall Gardens Sequoia Centre, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC. Casual attire, and bling highly recommended – Matt loved glitter. Bring your stories…clothing optional.
Like the Fire – Be Alive
Like the Earth – Be in Balance
Like the Air – Be Free
Like the Water – Be at Peace.
We love you 
Matty Gow.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
49 Responses
To Jim, Moira and family,
I was so saddened to see the news that Matt had passed away. I will always remember Matt and his infectious smile. He was an amazing athlete and always kind and a handsome boy. My thoughts are with you, a life taken way too soon.
With sympathy, Chris Hardie (Hillis)
Moira, Jim, Emily and Adam,
We were so sorry to hear about the loss of Matt. May you find comfort today and in the days ahead being together with family and friends. Also Praying that in the midst of your sorrow you will find some peace. The Peace of God that surpasses all understanding.
Love Gordy and Ann Doll.
Jim, Moira, Emily and Adam,
Our heartfelt thoughts are with you today June 3 as you celebrate Matt’s life- precious son and brother. We have many fond memories of fun times centered around where our universe touched Matt’s – lacrosse practices and games, camping, get togethers with the teams and the Devlin family. We are thankful to have spent these times with you, friends and family, may Matt rest in peace.
Dawn, George and Cam McKay
Moira, Jim, Emily and Adam, my heart is heavy as I write these words. Your family was like our second family in many ways with lots of shared memories and holidays when all the kids were little munchkins. Those times were always livened by Matt teasing Adam and his willingness to do just about anything.
I can’t imagine what you are going through, my thoughts and wishes are with you. Mike Kinch
Sorry for your loss, Emily and family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
My deepest sympathies to you and your family at this time.
Terribly saddened to hear the news. I fondly remember the times we shared as teenagers, all great memories. I was always impressed by Matt, in every way. Funny, kind, caring. I felt lucky to know him.
Rest easy, Matt. You had a profound impact on so many people in such a short time.
Cam and Lisa Norris-Jones
Words can’t express our feelings at a time like this . Out thoughts are with you all. Take care love a Barrie,Sandy & Scott Goddard
Jim, Moira, Emily and Adam;
I am so sorry and saddened to hear of the passing of Matt. I have so many fond memories of Matt and the boys growing up playing lacrosse, all the tournaments, Provincials and their successes. I know Matt was having some struggles but hopefully he has found peace and is in a better place now. Words cannot describe how difficult this must be, but my thoughts are with you. My condolences to your family.
Ric