It is with broken hearts full of loving memories that the Dibblee family announces the peaceful passing of Matthew Brent Dibblee at the age of 68, following a courageous two year battle with appendiceal cancer.
Born to Sylvia and Bruce Dibblee in Calgary, where he lived until he ventured east to Regina and Depot in 1978. His first posting was to Burnaby, BC and he remained in BC until his passing.
Matthew was known as Matt to most, Brent to those he grew up with in Calgary, as well as to his troop mates in Depot, Dad to his children, and adored as Pa to his beloved grandchildren. More formally known as Sergeant Dibblee to many, and affectionately as “Boss” to his guys.
Matt will be lovingly remembered as a man of deep integrity, a strong work ethic, and a wonderful sense of humour. Never one to shy away from sharing his opinion on any and all subjects, the Dibblee children grew up with the familiar sarcastic refrain of “when I want your opinion, I’ll give it to you!” Which was often followed up by “life’s not fair, get used to it.” Matt-isms aside, there’s no doubt he was a loving father whose greatest pride and joy was his family.
He was the beloved husband of Kelly (née Buzza), his devoted wife of 44 years. They shared a true partnership, with a commitment to one another and their family. Matt was a proud father to Chris (Kristy) Dibblee, Amanda (Ryan) Curtis, and Alyson (Chris) Linden, and a cherished “Pa” to his grandchildren Austin, Adam, Clara, Beth, and Emily. Although he will not be here for the birth of “baby boy Curtis” arriving this spring, Matt passed with the knowledge that this baby would grow up knowing his love. Being a grandpa was his most treasured role, and he delighted in every moment spent with his grandkids.
Matt is remembered with love by his brothers Mark (Yvonne) Dibblee, Michael (Joanne) Dibblee and Bill (Tara) Manzer. He will be fondly missed by his extended Dibblee family including Jenn, Mike, Justin and Maleah as well as the families of in-laws Robyn (Philip), and Tracie (John) and many other family members, friends, and colleagues.
Matt dedicated 35 years of service to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, retiring after a long and decorated career. He served in several different units over the years and made many lasting friendships, with several of them turning into annual fishing trips and “boys” weekends away. In particular, his time spent in Burnaby, Richmond, VDS and Headquarters was often fondly remembered with always a story to tell. Without a doubt, his most rewarding role was with the undercover unit where he worked with so many great members in some very challenging situations. His expertise in that realm was sought across the country as well as internationally. He shared his knowledge with police forces as far away as the United States, England, Ireland, Belgium, and Australia. His commitment, professionalism, and quiet leadership earned him deep respect throughout his career and left a lasting impact on colleagues, communities and the victims’ families he served. He leaves a meaningful legacy still renowned today.
In his personal life, Matt was deeply committed to health and fitness, a quality he was proud to have passed on to each of his children. He had a love of sports, both as a spectator and a participant. In his earlier years he spent countless hours in the boxing ring, and was a licensed cornerman in three states, often travelling for various fights. He enjoyed tennis, racquetball, and basketball, and volunteered as a coach for community basketball. He was an avid runner well into his 50’s. Matt’s “happy place” was definitely any time spent at their lakehouse in Osoyoos, in particular his near daily routine of a morning slalom ski. He endured countless bike rides up Anarchist mountain as part of his workout routine. When conditions were perfect, he enjoyed a ride on his motorcycle with a good buddy. He relaxed by playing his guitar, often around the campfire, much to the delight of his family. Whether sharing laughter, stories, or simply being present, Matt had a way of making those around him feel comfortable and cared for. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, integrity and devotion to family will live on through the many lives he touched.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Meadow Gardens Golf Club 19675 Meadow Gardens Way, Pitt Meadows, British Columbia. Guests are welcome at 11:00 a.m., with the program beginning at 11:30 a.m. Followed by a light lunch and much sharing of memories and stories.
If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society (cancer.ca) in Matt’s memory would be appreciated.
*Dear friends, family & colleagues, to assist us in planning the service, please consider notifying Chris with the approximate size of your party attending. To accommodate as many requests as possible, those wishing to speak or have their thoughts read aloud at the service are also asked to contact Chris directly at dibbleez30@gmail.com
February 4th, 2026
I’m so sorry to hear the news and am heartbroken for your loss. Matt was such a good guy and gone way too soon❤️❤️
February 4th, 2026
I am proud to count myself among Matt's loyal troopmates, Troop 13, 1978/79. We knew him as Brent back then. He was friendly, helpful, outgoing, and a feared opponent in our self-defence sparring sessions. Brent could always be relied on for an encouraging word when the going got tough, like when you found yourself standing in snow that was falling sideways, waiting for the "By the Left" command so at least you could march to try to keep warm. The brotherhood of Troop 13 is now a family, as we welcome the loved ones of our dear departed brother-in-arms. Together we will keep Matt's memory alive.
God bless you, my friend.
January 21st, 2026
Dear Kelly and family; I was saddened to hear of Matt's passing at too young an age. Matt and I were cohorts in Burnaby GIS Burglary Section. In those days we were young and full of oats. Beyond the seriousness of police work we enjoyed many pranks and laughs.
Matt was an extreme competitor. When we would go out for a jog, it always turned into a foot race as he had to be one stride ahead. Story: He and I played racket ball together which was always a fierce competition. One time he played the ball off the back wall and near tore my head off. I instinctively grabbed him and slammed him up against the wall. All at once I realized I was squaring off with a Golden Gloves boxer and sparing partner for Michael Olajiday (sp.) aka "The Silk". What in the world was I thinking?!!
We worked together on a unit in the Drug Section before our careers diverged. Matt was bigger than life and always commanded a room. He lived a storied life.
Kelly and family; May God's peace surround you and minister to your hearts as you remember and recall this wonderful man.
January 12th, 2026
It is an honour having worked with Matt. We both went to UC ops about the same time in 2001. Matt was a true professional who was always easy to get along with regardless of the situation.
My deepest heartfelt condolences to Kelly and the family
January 9th, 2026
I was deeply saddened today to hear of the passing of my good friend and ex-partner Matt. My heart felt condolences go out to Matt's family, Kelly, their children Chris , Amanda and Alyson and to all friends who knew Matt.
Matt and I worked together several years on VDS Unit 3, and I've always held dear the good memories we had. My regret was not having reached out to him sooner. We were inseparable during my days on VDS both at work and in our free time. Matt was senior to me and he quickly took me under his wing upon my arrival. He was one of my mentors on VDS and I learned many things on the job from him. Matt and I shared many talks in regards to our UC roles. He is definitely a huge loss, but his memory will live on in spirit to all those who knew him.
Pit I will reach out to you , I know you and him were close friends and I can only imagine how hard this is for you. I will do my best to attend and pass on my sincere condolences to the family and friends.
RIP Matt . You will always be remembered.
January 8th, 2026
Comfort and prayers for Kelly and the family MEMORIES ARE FOREVER
January 5th, 2026
It is an honour having worked with Matt. We both went to UC ops about the same time in 2001. Matt was a true professional who was always easy to get along with regardless of the situation.
My deepest heartfelt condolences to Kelly and the family
January 5th, 2026
My deep condolences to Kelly and family,
Matt will truly be missed. I’ve worked for Matt since the late 90s. He is an outstanding human being and a leader to us all. He helped so many members develop and become leaders in policing. His dynamic personality and kind soul will be missed. God bless Matt and god bless Kelly and family.
January 5th, 2026
I as well am a troop mate of Matt's. He was an integral player in transforming a group of 32 boys who for the most part had never met before we all arrived in Regina, who within a 6 month period transformed from boys into men, and ultimately brothers. Our deepest sympathies to the Dibblee immediate and extended families.
January 4th, 2026
In addition to knowing Matt socially, I had the pleasure of working two long term undercover operations with him and Pit. And while I know this tribute is about Matt, I can't help feeling for Pit as well. Losing a great friend is tough. Hope you're doing the best you can. No doubt you're a pillar of strength for Matt's family.
During one of our projects, a team member appropriately named them "Frick and Frack". It would be fair to say that they drafted the blueprint for a two man conspiracy. The Sedins twins' chemistry paled in comparison.
You always knew where you stood with Matt. He was a proud man. Proud of his family, his friends, and his highly successful career.
Rest easy Matt. Thanks for all the great memories.
December 31st, 2025
My sincere condolences to Matt's family.
Matt was loyal, dedicated member of the Force, who was well liked by all members. He was easy to talk to and always positive.
I knew Matt from Burnaby Detachment Days, 1981 to 1989. Frequently I would walk in the locker room for a noon run and see Matt in the gym, up on his toes dancing around the heavy bag, punching and kicking the hell out of it. He was in great shape and thoroughly enjoyed working out hard! I once made the mistake going out for a run with him. Yeah... I lasted for about twenty minutes before he left me far behind. When I got back to the locker gym, Matt was just completely another set of sit ups. I let him know right then and there that would be our last runs together. Matt loved it and whenever, we would meet he would always ask my if I wanted to head out for a run and my response.... yeah....but not with you. We both would laugh. Matt's comment was always, 'hey your staying activate - that's what counts.
On a couple of occasions I bumped into Matt in Osoyoos. He loved the place. It was always a pleasure to meet and speak with him. The last time I saw Matt we talked about the make shift gym in the locker room at Burnaby Detachment, about all the guys who use to work out there and go for runs. And yes.... we had a good laugh about our one time run together.
A Good Guy for Sure!!!!
December 31st, 2025
Matt led with integrity, fairness, and strength. He expected the best from those around him and gave the same in return. Working for him was a privilege, and his leadership left a lasting mark on many lives. He will be remembered with respect and gratitude. My thoughts are with his family and friends.
December 31st, 2025
Deepest condolences to Matt’s family and friends. I had occasion to work with Matt in the 80s when he was on the Burnaby Burglary Detail and later on Vancouver Drug Section. One of the good guys. Rest in Peace.
December 30th, 2025
Sending my sincere condolences to Kelly & family. ❤️🙏❤️
December 29th, 2025
Such a loss with another one of the old Burnaby crew gone. Condolences to the entire family.
I remember Matt on Burnaby GIS Burglary. He always had a smile, and always was thinking ahead.
He was a great Member and man.
December 29th, 2025
Matt Dibblee was one of a kind. A man of deep conviction and principle, Matt was fearless and independent in his views of what constitutes "the right thing". I had the privilege of working on and off with this outstanding policeman for thirty years, from our early uniform days on Neil McKay's mighty "D" Watch in Burnaby, through our drug enforcement times and, most memorably, our tag team on dozens of homicide undercover cases.
I will miss him very much.
Heartfelt condolences to Kelly, his family and his many friends. RIP brother.
December 29th, 2025
I am deeply saddened to learn of Matt’s passing. I worked with Matt in his early years in Burnaby and while we lost touch as our careers took us in different directions I think of him as a friend. My condolences to his family and friends.
December 29th, 2025
I was fortunate to know and work with Matt for a brief time. Then shared conversations time to time in Osoyoos. A great guy. My condolences to the family.
December 29th, 2025
Matt will be missed but his memory and impact will live on.
He was a true leader, fair, steady, and kind and he showed us that leadership is measured by character, not title.
He led with principle, treated people with dignity, and showed what it means to live with integrity.
December 28th, 2025
Matt will be missed.
I first got to know him in Calgary at Mount Royal College. We ended up both joining the RCMP and being sent to BC.
Our paths crossed a number of times over the years. It was like we never were separated. A true friend.
Rest in peace.
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family.
December 28th, 2025
RIP MATT THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS
December 27th, 2025
Our family became richer and stronger the day you persuaded my little sister to say yes, and join our families together. In one way, it has been an odd thing, knowing that you and your crew were working to bring justice and peace to families who had faced tragedy, but never being able to fully acknowledge all the good you achieved.
But knowing you as a brother-in-law to Tracie and me, and the devotion that you showed to our sister Kelly and your wonderful children, and later their spouses, and ultimately your besotted grandkids, not to mention your nieces and nephews and the Dibblee brothers and their families... the size of your heart encompassed us all.
Words can't express how much we will miss you, and that our love is with you, and is surrounding your beautiful family. Love you.
December 27th, 2025
My sincere condolences to the Dibblee family. A great loss for you all. His memory and spirit will live on through the love of those who knew him.
December 27th, 2025
Kelly & Family,
I’m very sorry for your loss. Matt was a great boss. He was always there to give advice, on files, or life. He was also a very active Operator, being the Crime Boss many many times. I had many good nights out with Matt on social scenarios. He was a gentleman, and always had members best interests at heart. His retirement party was an epic good bye. I will miss him.
Paul
December 27th, 2025
My heartfelt sympathies to Matts family, and friends.
Having spent considerable time with Matt and his close friend Brian Pitman at Burnaby Detachment GIS.
Knowing Kelly briefly when Matt first met her, he properly was ( head over heels at first sighting)
Over the following years our paths frequently crossed. Which included being part of a seventeen member relay running from Jasper to Banff.
Matt forgave me I think for not running any where close to the pace he set.
I was fortunate to have recently been in his company at a lunch that Brian Pitman thankfully set up.
December 27th, 2025
I am a troop mate of Matt's and send my condolences to the family. In training he one of those guys you knew was in good physical shape, with tons of sports skill and a great laugh. I have very fond memories of my time spent with him as a friend. My wife Wendy and I send our deepest sympathies and regards to Kelly and family.
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