Matthew Karl Walls

Matthew Karl Walls 44, born on May 21st, 1980, in Portland, Maine, passed away unexpectedly on June 8, 2024, in Gorham, Maine, at the age of 44.
Matthew grew up in South Portland and was a graduate of the Class of 1998. He was a very caring and humorous man who always had a joke at the ready. One can remember his love for Beavis and Butthead, Sam Kinison, George Carlin, Dice Clay or the Jerky Boys. And probably everyone has heard one of his fart jokes. When Matthew was no older than 5 or 6 sitting at a quiet Christmas dinner, he let out a very loud roar. Everyone chuckled but he couldn't quite understand why his Grampy didn't think it was very funny. His lighthearted nature was overshadowed only by his selflessness and deep love for his family and friends.
Undoubtedly, his greatest pride was in his sons, whom he supported wholeheartedly in all their endeavors. Matthew was always there for his boys and spoke with tremendous passion about all their activities no matter who the audience. On one occasion he took his son John to Canada to see his favorite band Metallica to play. He also was able to take both John and Shawn to see them play in Las Vegas with a little extra time to see the surrounding area.
Matt considered his father his greatest role model. Matt was in constant search of balance between love, accountability, and ethics that he measured against his dad. He'd recounted watching his father wake early and head off to work, day in and day out. Matt strived never to disappoint his dad and tried very hard to emulate him by working hard in all areas.
Matthew's love for his mom was incredible, with a connection so strong that they would often know what the other was thinking at times. When his mom became ill, Matt visited her frequently and made a point to prepare her house so most everything was within her reach, and she wouldn't have to take as many steps when she came home from the hospital. He was incredibly happy to be able to take his mom and Dad on numerous little trips with the highlight of surprising them to see The Eagles in Concert.
Matthew was very close with his brother Brian. With Brian residing in Illinois, they still made time to connect with each other. Matt always looked up to his big brother and was so very proud of him. When talking about Brian, he would often say that the greatest moments with his brother occurred when it was just those 2 hanging out and talking. They had countless adventures together and he was so happy to have this relationship as it brought him such joy.
When his Nana needed to be watched for a few hours, Matt jumped at the opportunity and took her out to dinner. Later, he would remark how blessed he was to have had that special moment alone with her. They connected on a level he hadn't seen since he was a little, and it filled his heart.
He made many friendships along the way and always felt very blessed to have had those connections. Because Matt had a heart a mile wide, these connections seemed to come easy. Those closest to him would tell you that many of these connections were often created in times of helping someone without any expectation of returning the favor. It would be hard to find an example where he didn't offer help through any resource he had, even if it was his last, or may negatively impact him. If he saw someone who needed help, he would quite often step up where most would not. That's just the very kind and caring person he was. He named his son after best friend, Shawn. Another very special person who was a part of Matthew's life was Vanessa Cyr. In their 5 months together, he was so very excited about their relationship. He felt such joy and connection with Vanessa that he hadn't felt in a very long time.
In his career, Matthew excelled in many areas. Whether it was his first job at 1st Stop or being Salesman of the Month at a suit store or being in the automotive field as a Service Writer and Manager. He made so many connections with customers. They loved him like family. His attention to his exceptional customer service skills earned him numerous awards and had the customers returning time and time again. Outside of work, he enjoyed various hobbies including bowling, billiards, darts, golf, and mini-golf and pretty much anything else that was fun. He was always game for basketball and enjoyed playing many times with his uncle and brother. He played in various bowling leagues and dart leagues as well. He loved his video gaming systems as well and was an avid collector. If he found an original Pong, he couldn't just buy one. He'd have to buy three or four. Matt's favorite player growing up was Michael Jordan. He rarely missed a game. He eventually became an avid fan of the Celtics. For baseball, it was The New York Yankees and Wade Boggs. Matt liked a wide variety of music but his favorite by far was Metallica. In fact, he made a point to travel to different states to see them play in concert. On one occasion he took his son John to Canada to see Metallica. In recent years, Matthew and both sons went to Las Vegas for a family vacation and to see Metallica in concert. He and the boys had the greatest time. Whenever you saw Matt, he would be wearing a Yankees hat or a Metallica T-Shirt or both.
Matthew was a member of Deering Grange #535 Portland Maine and held the office of Overseer for several years, equivalent to Vice President of the lodge. The Wednesday before his passing, he was at the meeting and was elected to the position of Master, which is the President. He was in such great spirits at that meeting, chatting with the new members, just full of humor as he always was.
Matthew is survived by his sons, Shawn Walls and John Lyden; his mother Roberta Walls; his father Kenneth Walls; his brother Brian Walls; His nephew Joshua Walls; his nieces Addilyn and Kenzlie Walls; as well as numerous very proud uncles, aunts, and cousins.
Visiting hours will be Friday, June 21st, from 5pm to 7pm at the Dolby Funeral Chapel on 434 River Road in Windham, Maine. The funeral service will take place at 11am on Saturday, June 22nd, with a reception to follow at the Deering Grange on 1408 Washington Ave in Portland, Maine.
Matthew will be dearly missed by all who know him. May he rest in peace.