Matthew Provencal, 63

It is with deep sorrow that the family of Matthew Provencal of Reno, Nevada, announce his passing while skiing in Reno on Dec. 26, 2025.

Matt was born on May 20, 1962, in Laconia, to Raymond and Beverly (Hutchins) Provencal, of Gilford. He graduated from Gilford High School and Lakes Region Community College of Laconia.

He was a master wood craftsman. He created a variety of objects from fine furniture, art pieces, musical instruments and recreational equipment. Everything he touched, he made better.

He loved the outdoors and could always be found skiing, fishing, camping, foil boarding, flying RC planes, mountain and street biking, along with hiking, often with his dog Kiko by his side.

Matt loved helping others learn to appreciate the wider world and always lent a helping hand or guidance for those new to the sports that were his passion. He was ceaselessly inviting friends to take part in his adventures. He had a knack for meeting people and forming instant connections with them that would endure.

Matt had been bitten by the travel bug and he visited Australia, Thailand, Bali and Hawaii.

He married his wife, Felicia (Howard) of Henniker. They moved to Hawaii, to the island of Maui, and built their home on a mountain close to the ocean. After 15 years on Maui, they left for the mainland and eventually settled in Reno, Nevada.

Matthew was predeceased by his grandparents and his father, Raymond. He is survived by his wife Felicia of Reno; his mother Beverly Provencal of Gilford; his sister Mary Beth and her husband Dale of Solvang, California; brother-in-law Ben of Hawaii; cousins (Hutchins family); and close-knit friends.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Andre Bessette Parish in the spring.

If you would care to make a donation in Matthew’s memory, please consider charities relating to the outdoors or dogs in need, both of which were his passions.