Matthew John Bernethy

Matthew John Bernethy, 55, of Livingston, Montana, passed away on Saturday, July 9, 2016 at the Pioneer Medical Center in Big Timber, Montana. A memorial funeral service will be held on Friday, August 12th, 9:30 A.M. at the Gardiner Community Church, 318 W Main St, Gardiner. A coffee hour will be held at the church following the service. Matt was born October 26, 1960 in Saginaw, Michigan to William H and Marcella Bernethy, the youngest of five children. He leaves to cherish his memory, his mother, Marcella Bernethy of Big Timber, MT. brothers, Bill and (Kathy) Bernethy, Linwood, MI., Tim and (Lisa) Bernethy, Gardiner, MT., Patrick and (Jan) Bernethy, Wellsboro, PA. and sister, Julianne and (Hannibal) Anderson, Emigrant, MT. Also many nieces and nephews as well as friends. Matt was predeceased by his father, William H. Bernethy in 1996. He attended parochial schools in Saginaw, MI, moving to Livingston in his senior year where he graduated from Park High in 1979. Following graduation, he attended VO Tech Diesel Mechanic School in Laurel, Montana. Matt worked in construction and as an automotive glass specialist before starting his own glass business which he called, Gumbys, his favorite cartoon character. As business increased, Matt was able to purchase new equipment and incorporated as Mountain Mobile Auto Glass. He also became an Amsoil distributor. An avid fisherman and hunter, both rifle and archery kept his freezers well stocked. His fishing trips to Canada with his dad and brothers was a priority. In 2005 a trip to Alaska fishing and caribou hunting with brother Tim and friends fulfilled another dream. Of his many hunting buddies, Bill Flick, a neighbor and 35 years his senior was among his favorites. Matt always believed in a hard day's work yet found time to enjoy life, especially outdoors. He had an infectious smile and sense of humor. His generous heart and faith took him to Mexico on several missionary trips building homes for the less fortunate. His plans for the future came to an abrupt halt when he suffered severe brain trauma following a truck accident in July 2006. He has been a resident of Pioneer Medical Center in Big Timber, MT for nearly 10 years where he has been cared for as their favorite son or brother. Words cannot express the gratitude his family has for their tender, loving care. Memorials in his honor can be made to Montana On A Mission, Big Timber, MT. 59011 or St. Jude Children Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Pl. Memphis, TN 38105 Arrangements are under the care of Franzen-Davis Funeral Home and Crematory.