Matthew Rossel St. Martin, lovingly known to family as “Bud," "Goose," and "Scooby Doo,” left us far too soon on June 9, 2025, at the age of 23, in Santa Clarita, California.
Born on July 9, 2001, in St. Petersburg, Florida, Matthew brought light, laughter, and energy into every room he entered. His presence made people smile, and he shared his zest for life freely with everyone he met.
Matthew was warmly welcomed into his adoptive parents’ home in Roswell, Georgia, as a happy and easy baby. Once he started walking, very early, he rarely stopped moving. From then on, he embraced life with constant motion, enthusiasm, and boundless energy.
He was baptized at Roswell Presbyterian Church, where he remained active throughout his high school years. One of his most beloved traditions was attending Camp Rutledge every summer, an experience he never wanted to miss. It was a very fun and meaningful place for him.
A naturally curious and fast learner, Matthew had the gift of a near-photographic memory and was an exceptionally quick reader. He enjoyed playing a wide variety of sports over the years. He swam for the Martin’s Landing Dolphins each summer and cherished the friendships and competition that came with it. He also played soccer for many years through Mt. Pisgah Sports and participated in basketball, tennis, and lacrosse at Centennial High School in Roswell.
Matthew’s love of games extended into the virtual world, where he built a strong and loyal community through gaming, particularly with Destiny and Fortnite. He also loved movies, enjoying both high-energy action films and more thoughtful, emotionally resonant stories. One of his favorites was Coach Carter, starring Samuel L. Jackson.
At age 19, Matthew moved to California, where he discovered a new passion: surfing. The combination of excitement, challenge, and risk made the sport especially appealing to him.
Known for his striking blue eyes and mischievous smile, Matthew had a natural gift for humor and loved making others laugh. He was a loyal and compassionate friend, often helping others navigate their challenges with empathy and care.
In every job he held, Matthew was known for his strong work ethic and exceptional punctuality, qualities that reflected his sense of responsibility and dedication.
Matthew is survived by his loving parents, Peter and Sue St. Martin, and his cherished sisters, Stephanie and Jillian. Though his time with them was heartbreakingly short, he leaves behind a legacy of joy, warmth, and unforgettable memories that will be treasured forever.
A Celebration of Matthew’s Life is planned for Friday, October 17th at 3 PM at Roswell Presbyterian Church, Roswell, GA. A reception will take place immediately following the service in the Fellowship Hall. All are invited to attend.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to No Longer Bound (info@nolongerbound.com). NLB is a long term, residential, faith-based program for men struggling with addiction.
Although Matthew has left his earthly body, we hold fast to this promise:
“Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
They will run and not grow weary,
They will walk and not be faint.”
— Isaiah 40:31