A tragic incident off the coast of Florida has claimed the life of Steve Matheson, a 47-year-old father from Utah, who died after being struck by lightning while attempting to assist stranded boaters. The unfortunate event occurred on Saturday, August 29, around 6:35 p.m., near Fort de Soto, as Matheson was jet skiing with a friend.

As a storm approached, Matheson and his companion were making their way back to shore when they noticed a boat in distress. Despite the worsening weather conditions, Matheson made the selfless decision to help the stranded individuals. His cousin, Marianne Matheson Shuman, recounted that the storm intensified rapidly, and the lightning struck Matheson before he could reach safety. "The lightning took him pretty quickly," she stated, highlighting his unwavering commitment to helping others even in his final moments.

Matheson sustained severe injuries from the lightning strike and was rushed to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. He leaves behind his wife, Abbie, and their four children, who are now mourning the loss of a devoted husband and father.

Tributes have poured in for Matheson, with friends and family remembering him as a loving father who cherished every moment spent with his family. April Beck, a close friend, described him as a man whose family was his greatest joy, stating, "He was the kind of husband and father who loved deeply, showed up fully, and made his family the center of his world."

Matheson's faith also played a significant role in his life. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, his strong belief in God and commitment to his faith were evident in his interactions with others. Friends recalled his willingness to help those in need, with Mitch Faas sharing a memory of Matheson assisting him with fireworks ahead of a holiday celebration.

The last message exchanged between Faas and Matheson was one of gratitude, with Matheson affirming his readiness to help whenever needed. Another friend, Aaron Boone, expressed his devastation over the loss, recalling their shared love for football and the way Matheson had taken care of Boone’s father at games after his own dad passed away.

Matheson’s legacy of kindness and selflessness will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who knew him, as they remember a man who dedicated his life to serving others and cherishing his family.