FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA) — A devastating house fire last week on Indianapolis Rd. left the Stewart family mourning the loss of their husband and father, Matt Stewart. The tragedy has left the family reeling as they work to heal and rebuild after losing both their loved one and their home.

A Call That Changed Everything

Danette Stewart, Matt’s wife, was at work last Thursday evening when she received a chilling call from her neighbor.

“She said, ‘Danette, I have Matt here and the house is on fire, and he has a lot of burns,’” Danette recounted.

The fire ravaged the Stewart home, leaving destruction in its wake and irreparable harm to Matt, who had sustained burns over 80-95% of his body. Paramedics flew him to a hospital in Indianapolis as his family rushed to be by his side.

A Heartbreaking Farewell

Danette and her children were faced with an agonizing decision. Despite medical efforts, Matt’s condition worsened.

“He did not want tubes keeping him alive,” Danette said, reflecting on her husband’s wishes. “We all remember him saying if I can’t have my coffee and cigarettes, it’s not worth it.”

The family gathered at Matt’s side, offering their final goodbyes before letting him go.

A Life of Selflessness

Matt Stewart was remembered by his family as a man of deep integrity and generosity. His daughter, Davette, described him as someone who always put others first.

“No matter if he was struggling, he would give people the shirt off his back. He would give people his last dollar. He was just always somebody that was selfless and wanted to do right by everybody,” she said.

Matt’s love for the outdoors and hunting was a defining part of his life. Danette recalled how he honored the animals he hunted, thanking them for their sacrifice to feed his family.

Legacy of Giving

Even in his passing, Matt’s generosity endured. As an organ donor, his final act was one of selflessness, a reflection of the values he lived by.

“Matt would want to help somebody else out, because he would say, ‘I’m not using them. What do I need them for?’” Danette shared.

The Stewart family also lost their two dogs in the fire, adding to their grief.

Community Support

A family friend has created a GoFundMe campaign to help the Stewarts rebuild their lives. The family expressed deep gratitude for the community’s support during this painful time.

Matt’s memory lives on as a symbol of love, resilience, and selflessness, qualities his family vows to carry forward.