Matt was born on May 5‚ 1991‚ in Laurinburg‚ North Carolina; to his parents Doug and Sandra Tramel. Matt never walked across the stage to receive his high school diploma but he graduated with honors from Purnell Swett High on June 9‚ 2009. He had planned to attend Nash Community College in the fall and work on his degree in electrical lineman. Matt looked forward to leaving home and starting a new chapter in his life. He was on top of the world and couldn’t have been happier about his decision.

He never met a stranger‚ making friends anywhere he went and enjoying their company. His favorite hobby was hunting coon and bear. He loved to laugh and have fun and made sure everyone around him was enjoying life with him. He loved being a big brother to his brother Brad and his cousins: Kayla‚ Drake and Tyler. At the time of his death‚ he was volunteering for the Pembroke City Fire Department. There‚ he was loved by many‚ and everyone looked forward to coming to work because Matt made it a fun place to be.

Matt was involved with the Pembroke City Fire Department for two years and had just officially become a full-time member. His reason for being a firefighter was the feeling that he got helping and even saving another’s life. He said it was the greatest feeling ever. He also worked with the Pembroke Rescue Squad when he wasn’t fighting fires.

Every time Matt was called he went; no matter what time or what day he was there always willing to help. He said all of the sirens and horns of a fire truck or rescue squad gave him chilling goose bumps because of the passion he had for being a helper.

Matt’s life was cut short‚ but we thank God every day for the memories we have of him. The only reason God chooses to take young firemen such as Matt because he needs the best with him as well. Everyone that knew Matt has lost a huge part of them‚ but the moments that he gave us will live on with us forever. He is greatly missed by all.