Zacharia A. Matz

Zacharia A. Matz, born on March 13th, 2008, in Vancouver, WA passed away on July 31st, 2025, in Seattle, WA. He was our superhero, fighting a lifelong battle with Propionic Acidemia. Zach’s life filled the hearts of many with his joy/happiness, infectious laugh, and vibrant one dimpled smile. Raised in Vancouver, WA, Zach attended Heritage High School. Every person he met was his friend, even if they didn’t know it yet. Each person he met quickly realized personal space did not exist with him. He showed his love to others by tickling, singing E,I,E,I,O, giving a tight hug (squeeze) or repeated pats on your back or arm. Bubbles, bubbles, and more bubbles summed up his time spent on the back patio. He would sit for hours watching bubbles, doing his “happy hands” to his face, resulting in the happiest smile or giggles. He enjoyed having others read books to him, sometimes reading the same book or even the same page over and over. Light up toys and music brought him much joy. He enjoyed hearing the different music sounds with each toy, seeing the bright lights. His Vtech apple, turtle, story book and his shining star doggie went on many trips with us. From a young age, he experienced many outdoor adventures with family and friends. He cherished his time in the outdoors, camping with family. He enjoyed spending time on the beach, in the forest, or just sitting watching the flames in the fire pit. Zach loved being on the move. Swinging was a year-round activity, no matter the weather conditions. He quickly found a love for being pushed or pulled in his bike trailer. The more bumps encountered while in his trailer, the more laughs/giggles you would hear. We traveled many miles, walking/running/biking/pushing up steep hills/pushing through sand/snow/navigating stairs/rocks/logs/trees while he sat peacefully in his stroller. This stroller became our freedom, his happy place, giving him countless experiences to outdoor adventures. He had a passion for riding horses, while listening to his favorite song, Old MacDonald. The chorus was his favorite part, it was repeated (sang) many times during these therapy sessions. He loved spending holidays with his family, going to grandma and grandpas to swing on the patio swing, with bubbles blowing all around him. He loved being surrounded by people and made a lasting impression on many lives. His presence will be greatly missed by all of those who had the opportunity to cross paths with him and fall in love with his kindhearted personality. Zach is survived by his parents (Michael & Amanda Matz); as well as many extended family members and friends. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 27th, 2025. Donations in Zach’s memory can be made to Healing Steps Equine Centered Therapy in Vancouver, WA. https://www.healingstepstherapy.org/

Zacharia A. Matz

March 13, 2008 - July 31, 2025