Saratoga Springs - It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the sudden unexpected passing of Matthew Scott McKinnis, "Matt," 39, of Saratoga Springs, NY on October 30th, 2023 at his home.

Matt was born on May 29, 1984 and raised in Colorado Springs, Colorado. At a young age, Matt's ambition led him to starting his own landscaping business and he later started working in the construction field. Several years later, he moved to Olean, NY, where he established his business "Matt's Home Construction" that he cherished and took such pride in. His dedication to his work was tireless, and the extreme pride he took in his carpentry work was so important to him. He always strived to do whatever it took to go the extra mile to make his clients happy. Matt moved to Saratoga Springs, NY in March 2023 with the love of his life, Kim Lathrop, and joined the Carpenters Union 291 of Albany, NY as a Journeyman Union Carpenter. Matt took his vast knowledge of carpentry, building and upgrading homes and expertly applied it in his new job working with metal framing. He took deep pride in all of the work he accomplished. Matt made friends easily wherever life took him and he was loved and cherished by so many. He was such a hard worker, always wanting to give his very best. Matt completed United States Marine Basic Training in his early twenties, however was unable to complete the remainder of his training due to his Father's illness.

Most notably he was the most kind-hearted and generous person to everyone. He would drop whatever he was doing to help a friend, or a pure stranger with no thoughts of wanting anything in return. Matt loved spending time with friends, and loved going on fishing trips with his dad. He was fun loving, ambitious, and full of life. He loved go carting, miniature golfing, bicycling, hiking, taking a brisk walk on a trail, and going to movies with his fiancé, Kim. Matt also enjoyed his dogs Dakota and Annie, his exotic birds, reminiscing with his brother Mike about old times and loved spending time with friends, Paul, Dave, his Union co-workers and so many more. His motto in life was "live life and be happy and to love and be loved." He has a beautiful soul and will be missed by all who have been in his presence.

Matt is survived by his beloved fiancé, Kim Janette Lathrop; brother, Michael Lee Schoonover; mother, Gina Lynn Everitt; Future step-children, Jessica Janette Bouvia (Jameeka) and Seth Kieron McCray; Future mother-in-law, Brenda Lee Moses; and many friends.

He is predeceased by his beloved Father; Jerry David McKinnis who was born and raised in Colorado and later resided in Franklinville, NY until his passing.

Calling hours for Matt will take place at the William J. Burke & Sons Funeral Home on 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866 on Thursday, November 9th, 2023 from 4-6pm and a memorial service will be celebrated at 6pm at the funeral home.

Burial will be private.

Our deepest gratitude goes out to all who have donated to the GoFundMe Page for Matt, and to everyone who has been so supportive and loving towards Matt's family and friends.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.