Dennis Lee Matson

Dennis Lee Matson 52, also known as the "Ducati Anti-Hero", of Los Angeles California, passed away tragically and unexpectedly Wednesday afternoon November 23, 2022 in San Francisco, CA.

Born April 18, 1970 in Santa Clara, CA. He spent his youth careening about the Santa Clara valley. From the time he was a toddler, his favorite color was black. As a youngster these were also some of his favorites:

Cartoon, Speed Racer (imagine that)! Book, "WhereThe Sidewalk Ends " by Shel Silverstein. Video Game, Space Invaders. Song, Kung-Fu Fighting.

His focused offbeat determination would literally propel him into numerous adventures throughout his life. He was free to be himself, totally, completely, and fully.

Dennis (sporting a mohawk haircut) graduated from Independence high school in 1988. Continuing his education he earned bachelor degrees in English Literature and Philosophy from San Francisco State University. During his studies Dennis developed great admiration for the philosophical viewpoint of existentialism. His love for the anti-hero archetype took form in his young adult years, inspired by the works of Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900), Jean-Paul Sartre (1905-1980), and Albert Camus (1913-1960). If you can follow the thoughts of these men you will know a lot more about the mind of Dennis and his investigation of human wisdom, being, and personal conduct.

He became disillusioned with university academic life; he had thought to become a professor. He decided to withdraw from his masters program and initiate a life affirming career change. This decision catapulted him into the very competitive world of high tech sales. He quickly became highly valued in the industry, ultimately becoming a Senior Sales Account Executive.

In this highly competitive business world Dennis excelled, his intelligence and irreverence for living the status quo made him stand out amongst his peers. His success in his career path allowed him to have the financial ability to compete in numerous iron-man competitions throughout the USA, and in other countries. He also owned and raced a track-modified Honda S2000 (without subjugating himself to sponsors) throughout California in numerous events.

Until his life changed abruptly and without warning due to a serious health issue; the discovery and removal of a large brain tumor. After a period of deep self-reflection, the traveling adventures of the anti-hero took form in Dennis's mind. He stuffed a backpack with essentials, and grabbed his brand new "Italian Supermodel", a Ducati 1199 Panigale S, which is a racing-type motorcycle rather than a comfortable touring bike. He took off across the country and back to experience whatever the universe would bring his way, one hair raising moment at a time. Dennis did it his way, which was physically challenging and against the norm.

His only Rules were: Don't plan anything that doesn't need to be planned. Stay somewhere until I get bored or restless, then move on. Don't become attached to anything I can't walk away from in 5 minutes. Don't end up in a hospital or morgue.

He explored the USA, then the world with his "Italian Supermodel". He recorded his impressions of the Ducati 1199 Panigale S for his readers on Adventure Rider, a well known online forum for motorcycle enthusiasts. More importantly though, he shared his unique philosophical musings about his life, the meaning of our existence, and the courage to carry on in an absurd world. His road adventures, musings, and beautiful photographs, had a sometimes profound effect on those that followed his ride report.

Please feel free to view that report here: http://www.advrider.com/f/threads/coast-to-coast-and-back-with-an-italiansupermodel.808437/. Also, Ducati conducted an awesome interview with Dennis which can be viewed here. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsCQokvIUms.

A favorite quote that Dennis lived by on his adventure is: "right here, right now, nothing else matters" bay area zen guy.

Dennis was a consummate artist and writer. His works were unique and always expressed his reluctance to accept a worldview common to collective humanity. His existential view of life and his perceptions as intimated in his creations are noteworthy and have a distinct beauty and sometimes anti-beauty all their own.

Dennis is survived and deeply missed by his dearest and closest companion Teagan Tan, and his mom Sharon D'Arcy (stepdad Jack), dad Lee Matson (stepmom Lisa), sister Wendi Curtis (husband Dave), and brothers, Jarrod and Jeff Secola. Dennis was always the trickster and as his brothers' mentor, he taught the boys things only an older more notorious brother could. He is also survived by aunts, uncles, a niece, and multiple cousins, including Drew Barrymore, cousin 16 times removed or so. Ha ha, Dennis would laugh.

Just for fun; through his matriarchal line Dennis is a descendant of: John Alden b.1599 (Mayflower). King of England Richard I "the Lion Heart" b.1157. King of Scotland David I "the Saint" b. 1084. King of England Alfred "the Great" b.848. Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire Charlemagne b.747.

Dennis was of royal blood. He also had an outlaw ancestor who was the first to be hanged in Hangtown (now Placerville) California in the 1840's; this guy he would consider someone to know. That's Dennis.

Dennis lived his life as an "authentic" human being to the best of his wisdom. He once mentioned that the only inscription on his gravestone should read:

"HE WAS A VERY INTERESTING PERSON".

RIDE ANTI-HERO. YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS ANEW. NO STOPS NO LIMITS.

WE LOVE AND MISS YOU.

Memorial Service info will be posted here when the manner of paying respects has been decided upon by the immediate family.

Until then, we welcome all to share memories and comments about our beloved Dennis by posting below. Please limit your photos to a few of your favorites. I am accepting photos and stories about Dennis at dennismatsonantihero@gmail.com. If you really want to send flowers, Dennis says to send them to someone you love. Thank You.