Matthew James Newbiggin

Matthew James Newbiggin, age 58, of Panora, Iowa passed away on Saturday, January 13, 2024. He was born in Des Moines, Iowa, and was brought home to live with his parents during a time when culture was just beginning to shift regarding possibilities for people with Down Syndrome. At two years of age, through serendipity, he met David Lytle who happened to live just one block away. The two of them went on to become lifelong best friends, creating many wonderful memories together, including speaking sign language secretly to one another in class after learning it on Sesame Street.

As Matt grew, he attended Ruby Van Meter School in Des Moines. His life at Ruby Van Meter was filled with as much normalcy as a traditional school, where he celebrated many friends, activities, and dances and was elected their first Homecoming King. In true Matt fashion, he chose to “share” his crown with his best friend, David. Matt participated in basketball, diving, swimming, wrestling, long jump, and bowling. He excelled in all these activities, receiving top awards, most especially in bowling and backstroke as a top contender for the National Special Olympics.

At the age of 22, as Matt gained more independence, he moved into a residential group home in Marshalltown, Iowa. He was blessed with a “bonus Mom”, Leslee Brown and wonderful roommates who served as his second family for 34 years. He held various jobs over the years with Mid-Iowa Workshop, giving him a great sense of purpose.

His last several years were spent at Panora Specialty Care. It is no surprise that he touched even more hearts there before his time on earth ended.

He is survived by his mother, Jeanette Brown (Jerry), father, Tom Newbiggin (Missy), and his sister, Katie Kreamer (“best buddy” Todd). He is also survived by his beloved nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends including his “fur” friends; too many to count as he never met a stranger.

The lessons Matt brought to his family and friends on this earth are unmatched and for that we are eternally grateful. We will do our best to honor his life and try to love the way he did, without judgement or conditions. Job well done, Buddy. We love you. We are all “pretty lucky”.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations to be made to Central Iowa Residential Services Inc. in care of Kim Wallace, 111 Linn Street, Marshalltown, IA 50158 (641)752-5762