Matthew Paul Wowk was the kind of person more people wish they had in their lives. He was a devoted dad and husband, friend, son, brother, colleague, uncle and loyal Chicago Bears fan. Matt joined the Angels way too soon, he left us on Monday, September 12, at the age of 51, after a courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer.

Matt's first passion was his family. Any time Matt spent cheering on his three children as they were growing up, whether it be at a tennis match or a weekend long swim meet, Matt was happiest being present with his family. Despite a busy travel work schedule, Matt made it a priority to be supportive and available for his kids whether to assist with an academic problem or talk over a challenge they were needing help to conquer. He supported and partnered with his wife Molly on the big and little things of life, and they were grateful to have just celebrated 26 years of marriage.

Cycling was a hobby for Matt that brought him immense joy. If Matt's time allowed on the weekend in between sports events, he could be found biking. He found a lot of solace on his bike, conquering trails, scenic hills, mountains and countryside terrain. His favorite rides were part of the Ironman competition and on any road in Madison, WI. In addition to cycling, Matt enjoyed going on runs with Molly, hiking, cheering on the Badgers and spending time with friends.

Matt worked hard and built a successful career that started with Forest Pharmaceuticals and evolved to being the Senior National Account Executive for Abbvie. He loved his colleagues and built meaningful and respected relationships with his clients.

Matt is predeceased by his dad, Paul Wowk, and his mother-in-law, Maureen Moser. In addition to his wife Molly and their children, Alex, Will, and Marin, Matt will be continually loved and missed by his mom and stepdad, Renee and David Marazon; brother Steve and wife Molly (Lauricella) Wowk; father-in-law Dr. Ronald J. Moser; several sisters and brothers-in-law, numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews, and so many friends who received the positive impact of having Matt in their lives.

Matt had a sly sense of humor with a contagious laugh. The joy he exuded over so much of life is going to be missed by so many.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Bellarmine Chapel, at Xavier University Monday September 19th at 2:30 pm. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Tufts Schildmeyer Family Funeral Homes. Visitation will be held from 1-2pm.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to the organization Matt's kiddos have chosen to honor Matt, Free Bikes 4 Kidz, Madison.

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