Matthew “Matt” Ruiz, 37, of Seattle, Washington, passed away on February 3, 2026. Born to Cindy and Ed Ruiz, Matt grew up alongside his older brother Joe (Jordan), younger brother Steve (Amanda), and younger sister Andrea.

Matt graduated from the nursing program at Michigan State University, where he discovered both his talent and passion for caring for others. After college, Matt began his career at St. Luke’s in Milwaukee, WI as an ER nurse. He later became a travel nurse, working at hospitals in New Haven, CT; Tucson, AZ; Spokane, WA; St. Paul, MN; Medford, OR; and Edmonds, WA. Matt eventually settled near Seattle, where he worked at Swedish Edmonds Hospital. He thrived in the unpredictability of the Emergency Department, preferring third shift, where he had the freedom to act decisively. As a Charge Nurse, Matt’s reputation for straight talk and protective instincts earned him the affectionate nickname “Angry Matt.”

Matt was both an old soul and young at heart, connecting easily with pediatric and senior patients. This quality extended into his personal life. Matt had a special bond with both of his grandmothers, developing relationships that shaped his worldview and stayed close to his heart. For his nephew Oliver and niece Quinn, Uncle Matt was the Muppet-loving, tie-dye-wearing goofball they would frequently see on FaceTime.

Matt lived a rich life. Sparked by his first job as a Milwaukee Bucks Team Attendant, Matt was an enthusiastic sports fan. He grew to love Seattle’s teams, but remained loyal to his Wisconsin roots and alma mater. Matt watched every Bucks, Packers, and Spartans game he could, often texting with his brother Joe about their post-game thoughts. Life as a travel nurse allowed Matt to explore wild places across the country. Visiting national parks with family was his favorite way to share his love of the outdoors. Matt also loved board games, ’90s music, bar trivia, and trying new foods. His competitive nature, encyclopedic mind, and quick wit gave him the ability to make friends in any situation.

In his early thirties, Matt began to navigate life with seizure-related complications. After years of frustration and pain, he underwent major surgery to receive a responsive neurostimulation implant. This procedure helped restore a sense of normalcy in day-to-day life. Matt was deeply cared for by his Seattle neurology team, who admired him not just as a patient, but as a peer.

Despite the distance between them, Matt called his mom and dad every week just to chat and share the everyday moments that mattered. Matt’s family is profoundly grateful for the Seattle community that embraced him so fully. His many friends and coworkers in the Edmonds Hospital Emergency Department surrounded him with love and unwavering friendship.

Matt lived with authenticity, confidence, humor, and an open heart. He touched the lives of countless patients, colleagues, friends, and loved ones. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, we encourage you to buy a county, state, or national park pass, embrace the outdoors, and take Matt’s memory on an adventure with you. A celebration of life will be held at a later date, with details to follow.