Matthew David Brickley lost his courageous battle with colon cancer on February 19, 2019. He was surrounded by love as his journey came to a close. Matthew was born September 10, 1959 in Quincy, Massachusetts to John Everett Brickley and Bertha Virginia (Saari) Brickley.
He was third born out of seven children. Matthew spent his youth in Melrose, Massachusetts, graduating from Melrose High School in 1977. He continued his education at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, graduating with his bachelor’s degree in Business Management in 1981.
Growing up, Matthew had a passion for ice hockey. He played hockey at every opportunity. Matthew was very athletic and loved all sports; baseball, basketball, tennis and golf.
Ever a sports enthusiast, Matthew was a passionate supporter of his hometown teams: the Bruins, Patriots, Red Sox and the Celtics. After college, and a quick and eventful tour of Europe, Matthew settled in Utah with his traveling buddies. He worked briefly for Snowbird, and for Cottonwood Heights Recreation Center.
It was there that he met his beloved wife, Allyson (Steinkirchner) Brickley. They were married June 27, 1992 in Salt Lake City. Matt and Allyson traveled the world together enjoying many amazing adventures.
They were always up for a good time with their many friends. Together they raised three beautiful children: Abbie Victoria Brickley, Daniel James Brickley, and Samuel David Brickley. Matt’s children were his pride and joy; he would literally do anything for them.
He loved to make them laugh, telling them crazy riddles and intriguing stories. He never tired of spending time with his kids. Matthew’s accomplishments are many and varied.
When he came to Utah, there was no summer hockey league, so Matthew started and developed one. Beginning with only six teams, he grew the summer league to thirty-five teams. His involvement in the local hockey was legendary and widespread.
Matthew served as president of the Referees Association in addition to serving on the state board. Matthew was USA Hockey’s Referee in Chief for twenty-five years. He officiated professionally in the IHL, AHL, NCAA and ECHL, in addition to calling hundreds of local games from mites to juniors.
Thirty five years ago, he organized, managed and played locally for the “SPA” team. A bond was formed among these men that has stood the test of time. His team organized a reunion game after Matt was diagnosed, just to show their love and appreciation for all that Matt had done.
Matthew also coached State Midgets, High School Stars and travel teams. His last season with the Stars ended with a State Championship which the boys dedicated to their beloved coach. Matthew’s love for athletics translated to his children.
He loved to watch Abbie play basketball in high school and then throughout college. She graduated as the all-time leading scorer in Wheaton College history and her Dad was there for many of her games. He also supported Abbie through her softball and volleyball careers as well.
He started Daniel and Sam skating almost before they could walk. They loved going to the rink with their father. The boys now grown, Matt was so very proud of their many hockey accomplishments.
He traveled to Minnesota State Mankato many times to watch Daniel play collegiate hockey. He was there with Daniel when he signed with the LA Kings. He was able to see Daniel get his first NHL point in his first NHL game.
He helped Sam develop his hockey skills as well. Matt was so very proud that Sam is playing junior hockey for the El Paso Rhinos. He never missed watching any of Sam’s games, even during his sickest days.
At the time of his death, Matthew was working for Comcast and was so grateful for the ongoing support from his supervisor, Mark Jackson. Mark was always so encouraging and Matt appreciated him so very much. Matthew could not have had a bigger heart.
He was fair, honest, trustworthy and a best friend to all he met. He was never afraid to stand up for what he believed in. He made a difference in many, many lives throughout his years of coaching and refereeing.
He is loved by many and will be sorely missed. He is preceded in death by his parents, John E. Brickley and Bertha V. Brickley. He is survived by his wife Allyson Brickley, daughter, Abbie, sons, Daniel and Sam, siblings, John, George, Andrew, Lila, Quintin, and Raina, as well as thirteen nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.
The family would like to thank the physicians that cared for Matthew throughout his illness. Dr. Matthew Steenblik, whose kindness and outpouring of concern touched our hearts from the moment he was diagnosed. Your texts and phone calls always came at the perfect time.
We would also like to thank the nursing staff at University of Utah South Jordan Endoscopy Center. Because of your efforts, we enjoyed Matt for an additional sixteen precious months. Dr. Ignacio Garrido-Laguna and Kristin Barber NP… thank you for your never-ending patience and your compassion.
Dr. Paige Patterson, Huntsman Cancer Hospital Palliative Care, we are so grateful for the love and care you gave to Matt. A special thank you to Stephanie NP and Joanne RN from Huntsman Cancer Hospital at Home. Our hearts are full of gratitude for your loving visits and support to Matthew and his family.
We would also like to acknowledge and thank Matt’s friends for their outpouring of love and support. You all have been truly amazing! Our lives have been changed forever.
Matthew, your work is done. You’ve been called up to the Big Show. May you skate on perfect ice forever.
Until we meet again. Viewings will be held on Sunday, February 24, 2019 at Anderson and Goff Mortuary, 11859 S. 700 E., Draper from 5 to 8 PM, and on Monday, February 25, 2019 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 8575 S. 700 E., Sandy, from 11 AM to 12 PM prior to the funeral services. Funeral will begin at 12 noon.
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