Matthew, who died on July 17th, was passionate about caring for animals, domestic and wild, and the environment we all share with them. Knowing the strength of those feelings, his family and friends request that donations, in lieu of flowers, be made to "The World Wildlife Fund" - http://www.wwf.org.uk/.

Contributions may be made electronically via this page, or by mail to an address that can be obtained by e-mailing colindykes@yahoo.com

Matthew was also a keen photographer, and loved taking pictures of animals. A selection is shown to the left.

The message below was posted on the Facebook Page "In loving memory of Matthew Thomas Dykes" by his beloved girlfriend Gabe, and his very close friend Nick from Madison, WI which was his home for 6 years. That page also has comments from his friends in the UK, which he left when he was 11, Hingham MA, Leeds University (UK) and Columbia College, Chicago, as well as family friends from all over.

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Matt was an inspiring and wonderful person who led a very full life. He was charismatic, hilarious, passionate, highly intelligent, sensitive, talented (especially in the areas of film, soccer, photography, and art), creative, and loving. He had a huge heart and cared greatly about his family, friends and loved ones.

Matt was an avid animal lover - he worked at Petsmart for years (both in Madison and Chicago), volunteered with Paws in Chicago, took in foster dogs, and found animals natural habits fascinating and inspiring. Matt also cared greatly about the environment and preserving animal habitats.

He was passionate about music, loving that which was "inspiring and beautiful" and was so knowledgeable about so many musician's music careers. Matt had been making films since he was young and had succeeded in this field, producing many films and scripts, while also assisting with lighting and sound on many movie sets with Columbia College in Chicago, IL. Lastly, most who knew Matt well knew that he was an enormous Chelsea football (soccer) fan. Watching Chelsea games with his dad, brother, and friends was such a joy for Matt. He proudly wore his Chelsea blue and even had a Chelsea tattoo on his outer calf.

Matt was taken from this world too soon and will be greatly missed by so many. His love and many passions will live on in the lives of those he touched.

Rest in peace, Matt. We will never forget you.