Matthew Gerard Tuttle

Matt Tuttle of Gresham, Oregon passed away on July 7th in his home, surrounded by his family. He had battled a rare form of cancer for the last seven years of his life, Multiple Myloma Primary Amyloidosis. Over the years of his cancer treatments he was never bitter or complained. Matt was an extraordinary man, and he touched many lives.

Matt was born on November 30, 1958 to Glen and Jo Tuttle of Boring, Oregon. He grew up working on his parents raspberry farm alongside his family and lifelong friends. He graduated from Sandy High School and received a BS in Business from OSU. Years later, Matt earned his master’s in Special Education from Portland State University. He enjoyed school, but what he valued were his friendships that had lasted him a lifetime.

Matt met Kim in 1987 and they married on Valentine’s Day in 1989. They raised their two children, Zak and Zoey in their old farm house on five acres in Gresham. Matt was very pleased to have celebrated 25 years of marriage, "Kim was his one true love." He was extremely proud of his children; happy to see his son in a successful career and watch his daughter graduate college with her BS.

For 20 years Matt was a top insurance agent with Liberty Mutual. He loved his job, but had always wanted to be a teacher. In 2007, Matt began teaching Special Education at Sam Barlow High School. Matt enjoyed teaching students and often stayed after hours to help them reach their goals. He took pride in every student’s success. He taught there until the progression of his illness required him to take disability leave.

Matt was an amazing photographer and was often seen behind the lens. Taking photos of loved ones, his rare prized chickens and pheasants, church events, and this past May his daughter's wedding.

For those who knew Matt, they will remember him for his integrity, honesty, and Faith. He considered other before himself. His first priority has always been his family. Once diagnosed, he spent much of his time ensuring his family's future after his death. Matt wanted his family to have a church home; together they found Radiant in Gresham.

Survivors include his wife Kim; son Zak Tuttle; daughter Zoey (and son-in-law) Izaac McKenzie; mother Jo Tuttle; sisters Lois Trevarthen, Cathy Day, and Cynthia Tuttle. Matt was preceded in death by his father Glen and his older brother Mark.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to Barlow High School Student Body Fund / Matt Tuttle Memorial. A celebration of life will be held at St. Henry's Catholic Church in Gresham on Friday, August 1st at 11am.