Matthew James Dahleen, 52, died on Saturday, Oct. 22, 2011. It was just three weeks to the day since he had his own "Celebration of Life" party. He was a force of nature, Hurricane, being his nickname. His death came just 13 months after his wedding day, in the arms of his beloved and cherished Sheri. He was surrounded by his daughter, Kaitlin and his friends and family. Matthew's all too brief life is marked perhaps best by the way he died, His invitation to the hundreds of those who loved him to venture with him along life's fateful path as the years vanished to weeks, then days and then hours. His great heart continued to beat against the cancer that ultimately consumed him. Yet, he opened his home and himself to all those who would hold his hand and share his last moments in a life that was surely worth the living. A successful business man, "AdSum Plumbing" was not just a phrase but a self made reality. For over 30 years many of his customers would say that their homes were a better place because he was there. He taught several apprentices his trade and legendary skills. He was simply the best plumber around. Matthew lived life to the fullest, turning cartwheels across the dance floor, golfing, diving ... he sped through life with abandon. He never met a stranger he didn't like and was always willing to help anyone in need. He made them all his friends. He thought that connections were important as we all saw friends from grade school, high school and life show up to spend a little time with "Matty." At his "Celebration of Life," Matthew said good-bye to his mother, Patsy. He said, "Don't forget me Mom," to which she replied, "I could never forget you my darling." Her words speak for all of us, Matthew will never be forgotten. Matthew donated his body to Science Care in one final act of giving. The memorial Mass is to be announced.

Published in Chicago Suburban Daily Herald on October 30, 2011.