Matthew Richard Lewis
Matthew Richard Lewis, 46, passed away suddenly, Friday, May 10, 2019. Matt was born in Minot, North Dakota on February 19, 1973. Matt had an early affinity for light bulbs and electricity. At 8 years old, he was secretly climbing light poles to obtain the high-pressure sodium halide bulbs from the streetlamps in the neighborhood, only to be discovered after rigging contraptions to make them light up in his room. By the time he was 12 years old, he was taking apart junction boxes, moving outlets and switches from different walls, and hanging ceiling fans. It only made sense that after graduating from LBJ High School in 1992, he would begin a career as an electrician. Initially starting out in residential new construction, he ultimately became a journeyman commercial electrician. He later worked for several years with his brother, Josh at the Elgin Funeral Home, where his gift for building maintenance and his love for people were a huge asset.
Matt had a willingness to help anyone who asked. He gave of himself regularly, helping many in need, at times, simply in exchange for a pork chop or chicken fried steak supper. Sometimes criticized for the time it would take him to complete the job, Matt would inevitably impress anyone who scoffed by the quality and perfection of his work.
Matt was soft spoken and shy, but his countenance would light up at the recognition of anyone he’d met before. Things were black and white in Matt’s eyes. Though he never fully grasped a lot of nuances in everyone’s humor, he certainly found ways to create his own amusement and make everyone laugh. Matt was the kind of guy who never wanted to be the center of attention, but extremely happy to be in the company of those he loved. He will forever be remembered for his kind presence.
Matt is preceded in death by his stepfather, Scott Lewis; paternal grandparents, John and Sue Hausladen; maternal grandparents, Dick and Gloria Williams; his aunt, Mary Ann Williams; and his spiritual mother, Eddie Buster.
Matt is survived by his mother, Linda Lewis; his brother, Joshua Hausladen and wife, Jamie; his nieces, Aly Pena and Phia Hausladen; his first cousins, whom he loved like brothers and sisters, Della, Brian, Heather, Theresa, Sarah, Sam, and Amber; his aunts, Belinda Sher-rouse and Joan Bates; and numerous extended family. Matt’s unconditional love will be forever missed.
Family and Friends will gather one hour prior to a Celebration of Life, which will be held at the Elgin Funeral Home on Saturday, May 18th at 1:00 PM with the Reverend Greg Long presiding. Interment will follow at the Elgin Cemetery. Everyone is invited to fellowship and repast at the Lost Pines Cowboy Church of Elgin. Arrangements and care are entrusted to: