DENVER, Colo. — What was meant to be a night of music and celebration turned to tragedy on Friday when 36-year-old Mathew “Matt” Gawiak collapsed and died during a performance by Australian rock band King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard at the Field of Vision Festival in Denver.
According to witnesses and reports, Gawiak began feeling dizzy shortly before 9 p.m., less than an hour into the band’s set. During the group’s seventh song, he went into cardiac arrest, prompting the band to stop the show while paramedics rushed in. Despite immediate medical intervention, Gawiak could not be revived.
Authorities said an autopsy will be performed by the Denver Office of the Medical Examiner to determine the exact cause of death. No foul play is suspected.
A Life of Love, Passion, and Purpose
Gawiak’s family and loved ones described him not only as a devoted fan of live music but also as a man whose life was filled with passion, kindness, and purpose.
“Matt was a loving and beloved husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend. He was the love of my life and my best friend,” his wife said in a statement. “He was the kindest, most genuine person I’ve ever met. His goal in life was to make the people he loved happy.”
Beyond his love for music, Gawiak had a wide range of passions. He enjoyed playing guitar, camping, skiing, traveling, cooking, and most of all, sharing those experiences with the people he cherished.
He earned his master’s degree and built a fulfilling career as a geospatial scientist, a role that combined his curiosity for the world with his dedication to meaningful work.
“I find some peace knowing that he was surrounded by music and a community that was special to him,” his wife added. “He was truly happy in the moments before he tragically passed away.”
Remembered by Family, Friends, and Fans
News of Gawiak’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves through both his personal circles and the global King Gizzard fan community. Friends described him as a person whose energy lit up every room and whose love for concerts created lasting memories with countless people.
“Mathew loved this band more than anything. Concerts were his happy place,” one friend shared online. “It’s heartbreaking that his life ended at the very thing he loved most.”
The Field of Vision Festival issued a statement extending condolences to his family and thanking medical personnel for their swift response.
While no words can ease the loss, his family hopes his memory will be carried forward in the lives he touched, the music he cherished, and the joy he brought to others.
A Community in Mourning
Gawiak’s death has also reignited conversations about medical preparedness at concerts and festivals. While emergency responders were quick to act, the suddenness of his collapse underscored how fragile life can be, even in moments of joy.
For those who knew him best, however, Gawiak’s story is not defined by tragedy but by love. He will be remembered as a husband, son, brother, and friend who gave endlessly of himself to make others happy, and as a man who lived life fully, with music as his constant companion.
Funeral arrangements and memorial details are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
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