Matthew David Oliver

Matthew David Oliver, of Orinda, California, United States passed away on March 24, 2026. Born in Baie-D'Urfé, Quebec, Canada, he spent a life defined by kindness, humor, and creativity.

Matthew was born in a suburb of Montreal to an airline pilot father and a stewardess-turned-commercial real estate agent mother. He grew up with his beloved older sister, Kim, in Baie-D’Urfé, where he could often be found riding his bike through the neighborhood, playing soccer in the backyard, or spending long summer days at the local swim club. From an early age he had a natural curiosity, boundless energy, and a vivid imagination—especially where anything with wheels was concerned. As a baby he made engine sounds before he could speak, and as a toddler he spent hours outside absorbed in moving his toy cars through the sand — a love of cars later shared with his son, Duncan.

Matthew attended Crescent School in Toronto, Lycée Canadien en France, and later graduated from Concordia University in Montreal. After spending a few years in Vancouver, British Columbia, he traveled to Northern California in the summer of 1995 to attend a friend’s wedding. He would later describe it to his sister as the “best weekend of his life,” because it was there that he met his future wife, Julie. Matthew moved to Northern California in 1997, and the two were married in May 1998. They eventually settled in Orinda where they built a life together and raised their children Jane and Duncan — the pride and center of his world.

Ask anyone who knows Matt and the first thing they mention is his kindness. Always ready with a smile, a listening ear, and genuine support, he was a beloved friend to many. Committed to his family, friends, and community, he dedicated countless volunteer hours toward the local schools, community parades & car shows, golf tournaments, swim & baseball clubs and teams. His daily walks through the neighborhood were filled with waves, laughter, and storytelling. Julie and Matt loved exploring the area on walks and hikes together.

A natural engineer, he taught himself many skills over the years such as furniture making, vintage car repair, stop motion movie making, LED displays, plumbing, home renovation/repair, weather tracking, crafting & bottling hot sauces, perfecting his chili recipe, building a pitcher's mound, RC race tracks, custom stilts, tree swing & elevator pulley, and many more contraptions to the delight of his family and friends.

He was a gifted musician and artist. He had a love of playing guitar, singing, writing, composing, and listening to a wide array of music, as well as attending concerts. Sharing his love of music with his family every day. Matt especially loved playing and discussing guitar with Duncan, who also writes his own music and lyrics. His creative spirit extended to visual arts as well. He shared a special bond with his daughter Jane through painting, photography, and graphic design. Together they discussed techniques, influences, and ideas, often relying on her insight, experience, and inspiration.

More than anything, Matthew was endlessly proud of his children — for their creativity, intelligence, humor, and compassion. He celebrated their unique pursuits and the remarkable people they are.

Matthew’s life was one of curiosity, kindness, creativity, and connection. He leaves behind a family who adored him and countless friends whose lives were enriched by his warmth, wit, and generous spirit.

Matthew is survived by his wife Julie Wood Oliver, their children Jane Kimberly Oliver and Duncan Matthew Oliver, mother Kathleen MacGregor Oliver, and sister Kimberly Oliver Owen (Perry). He is also survived by many devoted aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and brothers and sisters in law. He was preceded in death by his father David William Alexander Oliver.

In the United States, a Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, May 31st, from 2-5pm at Moraga Country Club in Moraga, California.

In Canada, a Celebration of Life will be held in August at the Royal Canadian Yacht Club in Toronto, Ontario. Details forthcoming.

We thank the many friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues who have reached out to share their love of Matthew and their support of his family. We appreciate your kindness and generosity of spirit.