Matthew Wilford Gifford, DDS, 56, of Anacortes, much loved by his family, friends and community, prematurely departed this life in a climbing accident on Mt. Pugh in his beloved North Cascades.  He was born on October 1, 1965 in Page, Arizona, the son of Warner and Adrienne (Peterson) Gifford.

Matthew graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in Dentistry in 1994 following a 2-year mission for the LDS Church in South Africa.  He had six children with his former spouse Terry whom he married in 1988.  Matthew first began practicing Dentistry in Sedro Woolley before relocating to Anacortes, WA in 2017.  Matthew spent countless hours serving in his local church and volunteering dental services to those in need, both locally and abroad. He was dedicated to his vocation and taught his children the principle of hard work.

Matthew worked hard and played harder. His favorite times were spent hiking with his family and friends or enjoying a good barbeque and playing matrix frisbee with his kids. He was a passionate and skilled woodworker and homebuilder and was always working on something. He had a lifelong love of learning and was always ready to talk about the latest history or science book he was reading. His easy conversation will be endlessly missed.

Matthew was preceded in death by his parents.  He is survived by his six children and spouses: Derrill (Caitlin), Addy (Kyle Nydegger), Vaughn, Kjaisa (Brandon Dreese, partner), Aliece, and Jens; granddaughter, Evangeline Gifford; and siblings: Gregory, Patrice (Gregory Young), Jeffery (Alice), Julie (Brad Dunn), Jennifer (Steve Dame) and Kristen (Chris Powel).

A Celebration of his Life will be held at The Gifford Residence: 27420 Minkler Road, Sedro Woolley on Sunday, August 21 ^st at 5 p.m.  He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and members of his community.

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