Mathew grew up in Walla Walla, Washington, the eldest of four children. He graduated from DeSales Catholic High School in 2005, where he was active in basketball, baseball, drama, the school band, a local band, and community volunteer work. At Gonzaga University, he played percussion in the symphony and, during his sophomore year, joined the nationally recognized ROTC program. He competed in Ranger Challenge events in both his junior and senior years. In May 2010, he graduated with honors, earning a degree in mathematics with minors in philosophy and music. He commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army and was named a Distinguished Military Graduate, ranking in the top 5% of 4,800 cadets nationwide.

After college, Mathew entered active duty in the Army’s Aviation Branch. He trained at Fort Rucker, Alabama, to fly OH-58D Kiowa helicopters, graduating at the top of his class. Promoted to first lieutenant, he accepted an early deployment and began his service in Afghanistan on May 11, 2012, operating out of Bagram Airfield. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. On June 6, 2012, during a mission in Qarah Bagh, Afghanistan, his helicopter was struck by enemy fire and crashed, ending his brave and honorable service.

His legacy lives on through his wife, Tovah; his sons, Dominic and Samuel; and a wide circle of family, friends, and comrades. His memory is also honored by Walla Walla VFW Post 992, which now bears his name.