Matthew Paulson Memorial Fund
Donation protected
Matthew Paulson, 29, of Barrington, IL, was tragically killed on November 2, 2017, when a distracted driver veered off the road and struck him as he worked on a roadside electrical project.

For Matt to lose his life so young and in such a senseless way, while doing the work he loved and trusted would build his successful future, is a tragic crime.
We are devasted by Matt's death. Matt leaves behind his incredible girlfriend Sara, his loving parents Mike and Babs, his sister Amanda (that's me), and his brother Lee, as well as many adoring friends near and far, and his electrician brothers and coworkers.

Matt worked for Home Towne Electric in Lake Villa, IL, where he was promoted to foreman in 2014, recently became a journeyman electrician, and was actively studying to become a state certified electrician. He was a member of IBEW Local Union 9, was passionate about his work, and exemplified the spirit of service before self.

Matt was beloved for his hearty laugh and electric smile that could light up a room. His prominent bright blonde eyebrows were the topic of many conversations. Matt was always happy to see those he loved, and shared his contagious happiness and laughter with everyone he met.

Matt was an active thrill-seeker and loved extreme outdoor sports like dirt biking, motorcycling, fishing, boating, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and snowboarding. He also took great pride in his vehicles, from his high school red Chevy Cheyenne truck to his most recent sporty Subaru WRX.

Matt had a very inquisitive mind, and was fascinated by new technology and exploration of the cosmos. His long commutes to work were scored by hundreds of hours of educational radio shows and comedy podcasts.

We are still searching for answers regarding the accident. We are frustrated and angry with the Lake County justice system. As of now, the driver who killed Matthew walks free with no charges filed against him.
Matt‘s life was just getting started, and he was going big places. He was the most kind, generous, fun-loving person. His huge smile and boisterous laugh could transform a silent room into a party. He was so smart, such a thrill seeker, and a total badass. His handsome, blonde-haired, blonde-browed looks were genuinely unparalleled.
There will forever be a huge hole in our lives where Matt once was. I don’t know if I could ever have understood how much I will miss him. I wish I had told him that I loved him more. Given him more hugs. Taken more pictures. Laughed and smiled with him more.
Cherish every moment with the people you love. And PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE put down your phone while you’re driving. No text, email, phone call, or song change is worth another human being’s life.

If you would like to contribute to the memory of Matthew’s life, we appreciate your help.
Funds will be used to pay for funeral expenses not covered by insurance, and to create a few memorials. Remaining funds will be donated to charitable causes that were meaningful to Matt.
The first memorial we plan to create will be to plant a tree with a memorial plaque in the neighborhood park where Matt, Lee, and I grew up. This park overlooks the Fox River, where Matt enjoyed many of his favorite pastimes lIke bonfires, boating, fishing, waterskiing, wake boarding, and canoeing. Many of our neighbors have lived here for over 30 years, and have known Matt since he was born. They will all cherish being able to continue visiting with Matt down by the river.
We sincerely thank you so much for your support and contributions in honor of our beloved brother, son, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend.
For Matt to lose his life so young and in such a senseless way, while doing the work he loved and trusted would build his successful future, is a tragic crime.
We are devasted by Matt's death. Matt leaves behind his incredible girlfriend Sara, his loving parents Mike and Babs, his sister Amanda (that's me), and his brother Lee, as well as many adoring friends near and far, and his electrician brothers and coworkers.
Matt worked for Home Towne Electric in Lake Villa, IL, where he was promoted to foreman in 2014, recently became a journeyman electrician, and was actively studying to become a state certified electrician. He was a member of IBEW Local Union 9, was passionate about his work, and exemplified the spirit of service before self.
Matt was beloved for his hearty laugh and electric smile that could light up a room. His prominent bright blonde eyebrows were the topic of many conversations. Matt was always happy to see those he loved, and shared his contagious happiness and laughter with everyone he met.
Matt was an active thrill-seeker and loved extreme outdoor sports like dirt biking, motorcycling, fishing, boating, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and snowboarding. He also took great pride in his vehicles, from his high school red Chevy Cheyenne truck to his most recent sporty Subaru WRX.
Matt had a very inquisitive mind, and was fascinated by new technology and exploration of the cosmos. His long commutes to work were scored by hundreds of hours of educational radio shows and comedy podcasts.

We are still searching for answers regarding the accident. We are frustrated and angry with the Lake County justice system. As of now, the driver who killed Matthew walks free with no charges filed against him.
Matt‘s life was just getting started, and he was going big places. He was the most kind, generous, fun-loving person. His huge smile and boisterous laugh could transform a silent room into a party. He was so smart, such a thrill seeker, and a total badass. His handsome, blonde-haired, blonde-browed looks were genuinely unparalleled.
There will forever be a huge hole in our lives where Matt once was. I don’t know if I could ever have understood how much I will miss him. I wish I had told him that I loved him more. Given him more hugs. Taken more pictures. Laughed and smiled with him more.
Cherish every moment with the people you love. And PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE put down your phone while you’re driving. No text, email, phone call, or song change is worth another human being’s life.
If you would like to contribute to the memory of Matthew’s life, we appreciate your help.
Funds will be used to pay for funeral expenses not covered by insurance, and to create a few memorials. Remaining funds will be donated to charitable causes that were meaningful to Matt.
The first memorial we plan to create will be to plant a tree with a memorial plaque in the neighborhood park where Matt, Lee, and I grew up. This park overlooks the Fox River, where Matt enjoyed many of his favorite pastimes lIke bonfires, boating, fishing, waterskiing, wake boarding, and canoeing. Many of our neighbors have lived here for over 30 years, and have known Matt since he was born. They will all cherish being able to continue visiting with Matt down by the river.
We sincerely thank you so much for your support and contributions in honor of our beloved brother, son, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend.
Organizer
Amanda Paulson
Organizer
Barrington, IL
Inspired to help? Start a fundraiser for someone you know
