June 4, 1966-June 10, 2024
Matthew Lee Barker, 58, passed away on June 10, 2024, in his home in St. George, Utah, after a courageous 8-year battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Born on June 4, 1966, in Ogden, Utah, he was the youngest child of Deanna and Sanford Barker.
On Jan. 22, 1988, Matthew was married to Yvette and later sealed in the St. George Temple for time and all eternity on Feb. 10, 1996. In 1990, alongside his beloved wife, Yvette, he founded Totally Nutz, a company that not only provided delicious treats but also symbolized the spirit of entrepreneurship, perseverance and the power of love. Their partnership was a testament to their unwavering commitment to each other and their shared dreams. If Matthew was roasting, you’d be sure to hear “Hot Nutz!”
Matthew was a man of many passions, with a special love for anything that kept his body moving, particularly at Lake Powell. He found solace and joy in the tranquillity of the water, where he could embrace the beauty of nature and create lasting memories with his family and friends. Whether he was gliding across the lake on a boat, skiing down the mountain, road biking or running, Matthew cherished every moment spent in the great outdoors.
A dedicated father, Matthew was actively involved in his children’s lives, especially in their sports. He was their biggest cheerleader, always on the sidelines getting in trouble with the referees. His love for sports was infectious, and he instilled in his children the values of teamwork, dedication and sportsmanship.
Despite facing the challenges of ALS, Matthew remained resilient and courageous until the very end. He approached life with a positive outlook and an indomitable spirit, inspiring all who knew him with his strength and grace.
Matthew will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Yvette; their four children: Austin (Rose) Barker and their children Ireland and Oaklyn; Miles (Ashlie) Barker and their children Jameson and Navy; Halee (Geoffrey) Balchowsky; and Dawson (Hadley) Barker and their extended family; and countless friends whose lives were touched by his kindness, generosity and unwavering spirit. He is preceded in death by his father, Sanford W Barker.
Memorial Services will be held Saturday, June 22, at 11 a.m. at the Diamond Valley Stake Center Building on 1784 W. Diamond Valley Drive, St. George, Utah 84770. A visitation with the family prior to the program will begin at 10 a.m. at the Stake Center.
There is a Zoom link available for those who cannot attend in person. If needed, please contact someone in the family.
A light lunch will be served in the overflow afterward for those who would like to visit more.
Those who wish to express condolences or give floral tributes in memory of Matthew should visit the Metcalf Mortuary website, where they will also find complete obituary and funeral listings. Arrangements are under the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.