Matthew Glen Miles

Matthew Glen Miles (The Midge), 36, passed away on Saturday, March 25, 2023, in Ventura, California. Matt was born on April 21, 1986 to Robert and Shaunna Miles, and raised in Gilbert, Arizona. He was the seventh of eight children.

Matt was a hit from the get-go. His bright blond hair and infectious personality kept him from getting in trouble – most of the time.

Matt had a special bond with his mom and always considered himself a “mama’s boy.” When he was young, he’d come home from school after a hard day, and she knew just what to do to make things better. Her passing when he was just 12 was incredibly difficult, but her love and the care of his dad, older sister Julia, and family, sustained him.

A gifted athlete, Matt was a playmaker on the soccer field from a young age. Some of his family and friends’ fondest memories were playing in co-ed adult soccer leagues with him. He also loved spending summers wakeboarding on the lake.

Matt’s work ethic was evident early on, and while he often advised others to, “work smarter, not harder,” he also worked incredibly hard. From dancing in a strawberry costume in front of Jamba Juice, and then working at Discount Tire, to his RideNow and Harley Davidson days, Matt made an impression wherever he worked.

A talented leader, one of Matt’s best professional attributes was his ability to quickly evaluate, train and elevate employees to fix broken or underperforming bike dealerships. Unlike most trainers, Matt didn’t try to change people to fit his sales or work style, rather he helped them utilize their own strengths and style to succeed. Similarly, he inspired everyone around him to be better and do better.

A motorcycle lover, Matt got his first bike in high school. He loved to ride with friends and many of his fondest memories were the trips they took. As an adult, his friends truly became his family. They were there for each other and took care of each other through tumultuous times.

Matt was extremely loyal to his dad “Bobby.” They enjoyed fishing and camping trips, and Bob loved cheering on Matt at all his soccer games. Recently, when Matt had to choose between job offers in California or Texas, he chose California to be closer to his dad, and made a tremendous effort to visit regularly.

Matt was predeceased by his grandparents Bud and Marie Hathaway and Vercy and Lynwood Miles as well as his beloved mother Shaunna Marie Hathaway Miles. He is survived by his father Robert Glen Miles, Great Great Uncle Louis Stoddard, his siblings and their families: Michael Miles (Tammy) Zachary, Jackson, Brooklyn; Emily Lawson (Bjorn) Chris, Kara, Ellie, Mark, Maddy; Julia Scott (Jeremy) Lily, Alexander, Allison, Clara, Sammy; Heather Austin (Jared) Miles, Davis, Cade; Sarah Nicoll (Cory) Ethan, Emma, Andrew, Alexa; Joshua Miles (Jennalee) Lilly, Max, Josie; and Amy Pitney (Blaine) Robby and Summer.

Funeral services will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints chapel at 1155 E. Ray Rd., Gilbert, AZ 85296 on Saturday, April 8 at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests being nice to little kids and old people – Matt’s favorites.

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.