Obituary of Matthew Hinkhouse

Matthew John Hinkhouse, born on April 29, 1980 to Barry and Marianne Hinkhouse in Burlington, CO, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 31, 2015 in Boulder, CO at age 35. Graduating with the Class of 1998 from Burlington High School, Matt relocated to Denver, CO where he spent several years working various positions within the food services industry. He also had many stints working on his family’s farm between his graduation and passing. In August of 2007, Matt was blessed with his daughter, Rylie. Always a loving father, Matt frequently expressed his adoration for her and beamed that she was the highlight of his life. In January of 2009, Matt wed Mandy Boonenberg and celebrated the marriage in the company of many of his family and friends. Several people reflecting on Matt’s life fondly recall the joy he exuded throughout the occasion as one of their favorite memories of him. Consistently noted for his love of music, Matt played piano and guitar, covering popular tunes as well as writing his own songs. Typically touching on the burdens he felt he had in his life, this creative medium was an important means of emotional expression for most of his life. When he was not pursuing his musical interests, Matt was likely making a friend anywhere he was. Known for his sense of humor and outgoing nature, everyone Matt touched has a funny story about him. Matt, being a child at heart himself, also was the life of the party around groups of children. Squeals of excitement from his younger cousins, nephews, and nieces filled his family’s house during holidays as they played with “Uncle Matt” or “Matty.” Matt will be missed by his family and friends who are saddened by the thought of his absence from the special occasions and everyday activities of which he loved so much to be a part. Matthew was preceded in death by his grandmother, Marlene Nolan, and his step-grandparents, Bud and Mildred King. Matthew is survived by his parents, Marianne Hinkhouse, and Barry and Debbie Hinkhouse; daughter, Rylie Hinkhouse; siblings Jenny and Brad Yahn (sons Preston and Trevor), Christopher Hinkhouse, Kaley Adolf, Samantha and Willie Lovato (daughter Myla), Kate Hinkhouse and Michael Hinkhouse; grandparents, Bill and Billie Hinkhouse, and John and Barbra Nolan; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.