Timothy Wetzel

Timothy Howard Matt Wetzel

November 8, 1984 - May 23, 2015

Timothy Howard Matt Wetzel, farmer and rancher, MMA fighter, accomplished gopher hunter, history buff, Rome Total War master, dog lover, protector of the meek, and friend of little kids, animals, and the downtrodden passed away on May 23, 2015.

"Tim always stuck up for me…" "I didn't know Tim well but he looked out for me one time…"

Protector. Guardian. Sentinel. This is a familiar refrain from those expressing their condolences in Tim's passing. Like a knight he walked through this world with a particular code, for those who were bullied, different, or in need of help he appeared time and time again. An imperfect anti-hero, he blurred the lines of right and wrong to do right by those who asked for his help. From Montana schoolyards to Sonoran desert neighborhoods, this was how he lived his life.

Tim grew up west of Cut Bank on his parent's ranch on the Blackfeet Reservation, where he developed a love of animals, sports, and the study of history (particularly medieval), and various cultures. He was especially proud of his German ancestry, and spent time learning the German language. At 18, he moved to Tucson, AZ. It was here where Tim's moral code was honed as an adult. He became an ardent friend and supporter of the homeless, specifically befriending two homeless veterans. Tim checked on these two men daily, making sure they had food and bedding while sleeping outside at night. He often invited them into his home for a meal, donated his own clothing to them, and on one occasion saved one's life by bringing him extra blankets and hot soup and coffee as he lay ill and freezing in the middle of an uncommonly cold winter night. He moved back to Montana for the last several years of his life, helping out his parents, taking up French, and working towards his aspiration of joining the French Foreign Legion.

Tim was known among his friends and family as a comical, almost childlike figure; He was proficient in many impressions, and could imitate various people and caricatures on cue. He was known for telling long stories, and discussing virtually any historical figure or topic at length… for hours on end. For those closest to him, he was extremely humorous, loyal, and loving.

According to his wishes, the family held a simple service and feed at the Matt Family Cemetery at 3:00 pm Thursday, May 28. Family, friends, and loved ones are encouraged to bring a story or to share a few words at that time.

Tim was preceded in death by his mother, Grace (Matt) Wetzel, and his beloved dogs Leroy, Bruce, and Philip. He is survived by his father William (Petesy) of Seville, brothers Bill (Tucson, AZ), Rex (Missoula), and Justin (Dickinson, ND), as well as his nieces Reagan and Macee, and numerous close relatives and friends who he loved like immediate family.

The Matt Family Cemetery is located 5 miles West of Browning on Highway 89.

Please visit Tim's online memorial at www.whittedfuneralchapel.com to leave a message of condolence for the family