Matthew B. McCauley passed away peacefully in his home in Oak Harbor, Wash., the last week of October at the age of 59.

Matt had battled many ailments as well as the effects of a stroke in 2007. The cause of death was heart disease. Through it all, he never lost his smile and love for others.

Matt was raised in Los Altos, Calif., and attended St. Williams School through eighth grade, and he graduated from Los Altos High School in 1973. Matt maintained numerous friends from his days in Los Altos. Later, he attended Chico State University in California and earned degrees in both social work and psychology.

In 1998 Matt founded a business on South Whidbey Island. New Beginnings NW was a non-profit entity offering transitional housing for people in need. His desire to help others grew, and as many as nine people at a time were receiving his care, support and charity. After New Beginnings NW closed in 2002, Matt worked as a chef at several local restaurants and eateries in South and Central Whidbey.

Matt was an avid photographer, and could always be seen with his camera around Whidbey Island. Quite recognizable in his Native American persona, Matt was at home near the Native Northwest Coastal Tribes of Puget Sound. He believed his ancestors lived on Vancouver Island. One of his favorite places to visit was the Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve near Coupeville, Wash.

A memorial service for Matthew will be held noon, Saturday, Nov. 30, at the Ebey’s Prairie lookout near Sunnyside Cemetery. This is part of the Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve, near the intersection of Sherman and Cook Roads, in Coupeville. The service will be outdoors so dress for weather. All who knew Matt are welcome and RSVP’s or additional information may be available by email to: jeffcallison@comcast.net

Donations should be made to your local social services organization.