Matthew Eckdahl, age 48, passed away peacefully from a heart-related event on Friday, May 29, 2026, at his beloved lake home in Canandaigua. Matt left us far too soon, leaving behind a legacy as vibrant, unforgettable, and full of energy as a Bills touchdown on a snowy Sunday afternoon. His reach extended far beyond what most people ever experienced; friends of friends of friends knew him, loved him, and felt the impact of his presence.

Born on August 29, 1977, in Buffalo, New York, Matt was the cherished son of Jack and Jeanne Eckdahl. He grew up alongside his two brothers, Jeff (married to Lara) and Tim (married to Kelli), later graduating from Brighton High School. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree from Brockport State University.

Matt was an athlete and an entrepreneur from the very start. He was chosen to play on a New York State select basketball team that played in Brugges, Belgium. He kicked off his professional journey early, working at Irondequoit Country Club, a fitting start for a man who would later conquer the greens as a genuinely talented golfer. (Some days - other days he said he was the best golfer because he had fun.) Matt eventually channeled his sharp mind and tireless drive into becoming a successful local business owner. He started in the scrap metal industry, but wasn’t meant to have a boss. He was meant to be the boss who treated his employees with profound generosity. He championed the local economy, and built a business rooted in community. While in college, Matt crossed paths with the love of his life, Mary. Though they didn’t officially begin dating until a few years later, that spark grew into a beautiful, lifelong devotion. Together, they built a life filled with deep affection, laughter, music, lots of new houses, lots of dogs, and incredible food.

To say Matt was a people person is an understatement. He had a rare and extraordinary gift: he made everyone feel like the center of his universe. People didn’t just feel welcomed by him, they felt seen, valued, and deeply loved. Young people adored him too. He made them feel like they were more than kids, more than neighbors; he made them feel important, included, and genuinely special.

Matt’s passions ran deep. He was an excellent cook, a car enthusiast, a dedicated fisherman, and a fiercely loyal, lifelong Buffalo Bills fan. He loved live, loud music, especially the kind you feel in your chest, and proudly held season tickets to CMAC for several years. His energy stretched two to three standard deviations beyond his normal orbit. His light burned blindingly bright, and his genuine nature ensured that absolutely everyone felt included in these hobbies, no matter what. People knew they were loved because Matt made sure of it.

Above all else, Matt’s greatest pride, joy, and finest achievements were his children. He loved watching Maxwell and McKenna excel in sports and celebrate their many academic achievements and endeavors. Standing on the sidelines or celebrating their classroom successes were truly his absolute favorite places to be in the world. He supported their dreams with everything he had, always wanting them to thrive.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Mary; his cherished children, Maxwell and McKenna; his parents, Jack and Jeanne; his brothers and sisters-in-law; his dogs, which he loved reluctantly but unconditionally; and a community of friends who will forever miss his jovial spirit, his generosity, and the way he made every person feel like they mattered.

Matt wanted nothing more than to ensure his children’s future success. Therefore, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made towards Maxwell and McKenna’s college account to help ensure they continue to thrive just as their dad always wanted. This can be made possible by making checks payable to The Eckdahl Children College Memorial Fund, Canandaigua National Bank 72 South Main St. Canandaigua, NY 14424 by mail or in person.

Because Matt’s passing was so sudden and unexpected, funeral services will be kept private for the immediate family. However, because a light that bright demands a proper send-off, friends and community members are warmly invited to a Celebration of Life at the Canandaigua Country Club on Wednesday, June 3, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. In honor of Matt’s favorite things, guests are encouraged to ditch the formal attire and wear their favorite band t-shirts, favorite golf or fishing attire, FORE Recycling merch, or Buffalo Bills gear. Come ready to share your favorite stories, laugh as he would have, and toast to a life incredibly well-lived. Please write these memories or favorite sayings from Matt down for Maxwell, McKenna and Mary.

Matt’s legacy lives on in every person who felt his kindness, every child who felt bigger because of him, every friend who laughed a little louder in his presence, and every community he helped bring together. His light and his love will continue to move through the world in the stories people share, the music they play too loud, the meals they cook with care, and the way they make others feel seen. Matt will be forever missed, forever remembered, and forever loved.

To share a memory or express condolences online please visit www.fullerfh.com