Help Us Honor Our Knight in Shining Armor

https://youtu.be/1GFj34SaI4E

Hello, my name is John Waters and I had the pleasure of knowing my cousin Matt Hiltman for my whole life. My family is starting this GoFundMe to ask our communities to help with the financial burden of Matt's funeral. Unfortunately, Matt was in Mexico living out his greatest passion in life as a performing knight when he fell ill and ultimately passed away from a heart attack on August 25. He was just 35. Anything you can pitch in would help minimize the stress on his family in this really difficult time as they try to focus their energy on grieving.

For those who knew Matt, you'd likely agree with me that he was a fun-loving, passionate son, brother, cousin, friend, and knight. His love of horseback riding, jousting, renaissance fairs and performing was a testament to his drive, intensity and passion. For years he worked with various organizations such as the Knights of Valour and Medieval Times and he always came back for more. He was more to us than just a knight though. Matt was a caring, loving individual who, despite his intense struggle with mental health, was able to shine his light on those around him. He was a smart, strong, goofy and humble man while he was on this Earth... and he'd never pass up a chance to make you laugh. He was also an avid supporter of the NAMI group whose primary goal is support for people with mental illness. As someone who struggled with depression and bipolar, Matt was no stranger to these challenges but was always willing to be involved in hopes of a better path for himself and his community.

Matt is survived by his parents Paul and Dianne Hiltman, as well as his brother Will. Again, anything helps from a prayer to a donation. Thank you very much.

-- John Waters, on behalf of the Hiltman family