Marshall E. Matye was a longtime resident of Anacortes, Washington. He loved the outdoors, especially running, hiking, golfing, and biking. His favorite spot was his bench on a knoll in the backyard. There under a cover of trees, overlooking the bay and the boats, he said, "This is a true blessing from God."

With devotion to flag and country, the four Matye brothers performed their patriotic duties during the Vietnam era. Army Private Marshall E. Matye trained as a Multi-Engine Single-Rotor Helicopter Mechanic while stationed in Germany during the conflict. Having served with honor, he was awarded medals for National Defense Service,  Sharpshooter (Rifle), and others.

It wasn't until he was in his thirties that he discovered an extraordinary talent as a marathon runner, and for a decade won race after race in the sport he loved. For the 1984 USA Summer Olympics, he  qualified as a member of the cross-country Torch Relay. His team, The Four Horsemen, ran in week eight, which covered 760 miles. Usually running twice a day, Marshall, nicknamed Strider, carried the torch 50-60 miles for the route starting in Mountain Home, Idaho, and finishing in Oregon City, Oregon. For running the segment of the western states, he received a commemorative XXIIIrd Olympiad Torch.

Marshall wrote, "It was a very humbling experience to see how much the people along the route enjoyed watching the torch pass. I  believe it built up pride in our country for a lot of people. It was especially gratifying to see the joy on the faces of the small children."

He lost his courageous battle with cancer on March 7, 2022, passing peacefully at home in the presence of his loved ones. On March 22, Marshall received a full military burial with honors at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, Washington.

As we look to the sky for his new and shining star in the heavens, our beloved Marshall will forever be in our hearts.

"My heartfelt gratitude for all the thoughts and prayers shared by our loving family and caring friends.  Thank you for being a part of Marshall's Celebration of Life.  Gifts of flowers, donations given in his memory and words of sympathy will be remembered … always. Judy"

To share memories of  Marshall, please sign the online guestbook and bookmark this link for return visits, www.evanschapel.com/obituary/marshall-matye

To view his Memorial Slideshow, click here: www.vimeo.com/697056664/0ea91e3b68