Matt Walters

Matthew Cornell Walters, 30, died suddenly of heart failure during a masters’ swim team workout in Salt Lake City on March 12, 2001. He was born on January 24, 1971 in Wilmington , Del. , to Wally and Cathy Walters. In 1976 his family moved to Los Alamos . “Max” began swimming with the Los Alamos Aquatomics at age 8 and continued through his years at Los Alamos High School . After graduating from LAHS in 1988, he attended Texas Christian University in Fort Worth , where he earned bachelor of science and master of science degrees. As a Horned Frog swimmer, he achieved a school record in the 400-yard individual medley event, as well as many other awards, including the “Tough as Nails” trophy. In 1996 he met Darlene Zerwekh of Los Alamos, and when she moved to Salt Lake City to begin a graduate physical therapy program, he felt compelled to follow her. They were married in Los Alamos on Sept. 13, 1997. In Salt Lake City , he first worked as a structural geologist and later headed the design of the winter Olympics web site, saltlake2002.com. In addition to a fulfilling career as a web page designer, he had a lifelong passion for sports, both as a spectator and as a competitor. For several years he swam with and coached two masters’ teams. In 2000 he placed first in the Masters National Meet in the 200-yeard butterfly event. To celebrate the new millennium, on Dec. 31, 1999, he swam 200 one hundreds (more than 11 miles).

“All those fortunate enough to swim with him, be coached by him or even just know him, benefited from his extraordinary gift of motivating others.” Family members said.

“Working with the Salt Lake Organizing Committee, he was recognized for his many contributions. A link was created on the web site in his memory, where anyone who knew him can submit comments. See http://www.peaksystems.com/mattwalters/