Matthew (Matty) Kirk Lewis

Matthew Kirk Lewis passed away peacefully surrounded by family at the Montfort Hospital on October 13, 2026 after a courageous fight with cancer at the age of 52. He is now with the Lord, free from the pain of a broken down body. 

Matthew is greatly missed by surviving family members: parents Richard and Karen (Schwindt) Lewis; siblings Jason (Jennifer Wright), Rebecca (Stefan Cameron), and Tracy; father of Kaya (Robin Bham), Trinity, and Oscar; proud grandfather of Ajooni Kaur Bahm, and special close friend of Amber Pinilla (Robert Pinilla). Matthew was also a proud uncle to Timmerie (Jesse Beckwith), Alaina (Bryson McCulloch), Simon, and Isaac, and grand uncle to Claire, Rosie, and Emma.

Born May 13, 1974 in Ottawa at the Riverside Hospital, he spent his first three years in Orleans before moving to Oakville and St. Catharines, then returning to Orleans in 1983. After high school graduation he moved to Vancouver to work and learn the skills of the hospitality industry, then returning to Orleans where he mastered those skills, progressing from employee to entrepreneur and business owner.

Matthew was well known for his compassion, love for all people, fantastic cooking skills, sense of humour, dedication to hard work, customer service, charitable acts of kindness and always willing to drop everything to assist someone in need. He also wore the title of "chili cookoff champion" for a number of years. Matthew was a beloved member of the Orleans and East Ottawa community. He was also an accomplished artist, skilled craftsman, and when time was available he could be found with his fishing pole and kayak.

Whether you needed a job, a handout, a house or car repair, or just someone to talk to or ask advice of, Matthew was the person to call. His greatest love was his family followed by being the number one fan of the New York Giants. Keeping busy was the order of his day and in 52 years he had very few moments with nothing to do.

A special thanks goes out to the nurses and physicians at the Montfort Hospital. Specifically, the ICU nursing staff as well as Dr Murray and Dr Lominy.

A private funeral will be held at a later date.

The celebration of life will be held on November 26th at Taproom260 from 5-9pm. All are welcome.