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CremateSimply - Thornton

3839 E. 120th Ave

Denver, Colorado

Matthew Gilliland Obituary

Matthew (Matt) Michael Gilliland, 51, of Arvada, Co. Passed away Monday December 16, 2025

Matt was born in Denver, Co. on January 14, 1974. He grew up in Lakewood, Co; Albuquerque NM; and Littleton, Co. He was a happy boy and enjoyed playing outside, being Evel Knievel, taking his toys apart and tormenting his sister.

Family was everything to him. He was always helping his mom and sister on their homes. He loved the family progressive Christmases. They would start at Matt and Jen's home with Matt making mush and sausage souffle. Always started Christmas day on a fun adventure.

Matt is survived by his wife, Jennifer (Jen); his father and mother, Tom and Sandy; his daughter, Brittany, and her husband Justin; his grandson, Aiden; his sister, Robin; and his nephew, Cole. Matt and Jen married on April 03, 2009. They had a loving marriage for 16 years. He was so proud to be Brittany's dad and Aiden's grandpa (BaBa Matt).

Matt worked in construction as a certified welder for many years and then worked as a CAD designer. He loved being with his hunting buddies.

Matt's "Celebration of life" will be at Arvada Covenant Church at 5555 Ward Rd., Arvada, Co. 80002 on February 19, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. For those attending (and willing to participate), the family has suggested people wear camouflage or Bronco colors.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Arbor Day Foundation or the American Cancer Society.

Matt, we miss you and love you always! You are forever in our hearts!

Published by The Denver Gazette on Jan. 12, 2026.

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