PORTLAND — Matthew M. Kimball, 39, of South Paris, died unexpectedly Sept. 26 after a brief battle with cancer. Matt was surrounded by his loving family and friends.

Born in Bridgton on Sept. 29, 1971, he was the son of William and Muriel Lapham Kimball. He attended Waterford elementary school and Oxford Hills High School. Matt grew up on the family farm working in the butcher shop with his brother Wade and father Bill. Matthew learned various trades working with brothers-in-law Jeff Hadley, Tom LeBlanc and Bernard Wakefield. Some of Matt’s fondness memories were from time spent on the rubbish truck with Dathan, Daniel and Darren. Matt also spent two years living in Crestone, Colo., where he managed a successful lumberyard. Matthew was truly talented with his hands and at the time of his passing was the proud owner of a thriving painting business.

Matt loved to hunt and fish. He appreciated the simple life. He looked forward to time spent with his wife, Leta, and his dogs Zeb and Stella. Matt loved spending time with family and friends. He loved to sit, talk and tell jokes and enjoyed a good old-fashioned meal. He adored his son, Wyatt, and cherished every second they spent together. When he spoke of Wyatt it was obvious he was the light of his life.

Matthew is survived by his wife, Leta, of South Paris; his son Wyatt of Belmont, N.H.; his mother, Muriel Kimball of South Paris; brothers, Wade and Sue Kimball of Waterford and William Jr. and Amanda of Buckfield; sisters, Brenda Gerry of Fryeburg, Linda Twitchell and Don of Newry, Sharon Hadley and Jeff of Waterford, Sue LeBlanc and Tom of Norway; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.

He was predeceased by his father, Bill; and brothers-in-law, Bob Gerry of Fryeburg and Bernard Wakefield of Harrison.

Online condolences may be shared with his family at www.chandlerfunerals.com.