Matthew Dean Hacking

Matthew Dean Hacking, 27, passed away on August 8, 2026. He will be remembered as a devoted son, brother, grandson, coach, and friend who brought energy, warmth, and dedication to everything and everyone in his life.

Matthew was born to Erik and Wendy Hacking and grew up in Holladay, Utah, alongside his siblings, Jessica and Tyler.

He graduated with honors from City Academy High School in Salt Lake City, where he was named a Sterling Scholar for Science - a reflection of both his intelligence and his drive to excel. He went on to attend the University of Utah on an academic scholarship, and later completed his EMT certification at Salt Lake Community College. At the time of his passing, he was finishing his AEMT certification, continuing to build a career centered on caring for others.

Matthew earned his Eagle Scout award, a lasting testament to his character, discipline, and commitment to service. The family is deeply grateful to his church and scout leaders, whose guidance helped shape the man he became.

Skiing was at the heart of who Matthew was. He raced with the Solitude Mountain Resort and Brighton Mountain Resort race teams, and for seven years he coached with the Solitude Devo Program, where he became a favorite among the young skiers he mentored. He had a gift for teaching - patient, encouraging, and endlessly enthusiastic - and he leaves behind a generation of young racers who learned not only technique from him, but a genuine love of the sport. His influence on the Solitude ski community will be felt for years to come.

Matthew's caring nature extended into his professional life as well. He worked with the elderly and was a valued member of the Securitas team in Salt Lake City, where he built lasting friendships and relationships with coworkers and clients alike. Those who worked alongside him knew him as reliable, kind, and someone who genuinely enjoyed the people around him.

Outside of work and coaching, Matthew loved spending time outdoors - fly fishing, pheasant hunting, and skeet shooting were among his favorite pursuits. He also cherished time with his friends, whether longboarding or video gaming with his "bros," always finding joy in the simple pleasure of good company.

Matthew is survived by his parents, Erik and Wendy Hacking; his siblings, Jessica and Tyler; his grandmothers, Shirley Nelson and Vickie Hacking; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins who loved him dearly. Preceded in death by his grandfathers David Nelson and Richard Hacking.

A celebration of life will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on September 12, 2026, at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park and Mortuary, 3401 S. Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84106, followed by a lunch and open house at the home of his grandmother, Shirley Nelson (address available upon request.)