It is with profound sadness that we remember our colleague and fellow University of Iowa Ophthalmology alumnus Matthew Weed, MD, who passed away on December 25, 2025. A gifted physician, compassionate mentor, and devoted father, Matt’s life was defined by exceptional service to patients, uplifting humanity, and unwavering devotion to family.
An Iowa City Formation
Matt earned the privilege to train in ophthalmology at the University of Iowa, a department he would later describe as his top choice and most valued professional home. In Iowa City, along with his wife Malerie and their young family, Matt completed his ophthalmology residency and two fellowships — first in ophthalmic genetics and then in pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus — working with some of the field’s most respected mentors and colleagues.
His research and clinical pursuits during this period laid the groundwork for a career dedicated to advancing care for children with complex eye disease. In 2015, he was honored with the P.J. Leinfelder Award for Research Excellence from the University of Iowa Department of Ophthalmology, recognizing his contributions to pediatric vision science and clinical scholarship.
A Career of Compassion and Expertise
After training, Matt brought his expertise to practice at the Spokane Eye Clinic, where he became known for his kind, thoughtful care and his ability to connect deeply with patients and families. In July 2025, he joined the John A. Moran Eye Center at University of Utah, where he served at Primary Children’s Hospital, directed an inherited retinal disease clinic, and helped streamline services for children facing rare and complex diagnoses. Colleagues at the Moran Eye Center remember him as an extraordinary physician whose humanism, clinical excellence, and generous spirit left a lasting impact on patients and peers alike.
Matt held board certification by the American Board of Ophthalmology and was an active member of key professional societies, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, and the Pediatric Eye Disease Investigator Group. His work in amblyopia and myopia clinical studies was published in peer-reviewed journals, and he remained deeply engaged in contributing to the collective knowledge of pediatric eye care.
A Life of Meaning Beyond Medicine
Born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah, Matt balanced his demanding career with an abiding love for family. He and Malerie nurtured their four children, Madeline, Charlie, Everett, and Tommy, with intentional care and joy, making family time the cornerstone of his life. Whether exploring the outdoors, cheering on favorite sports teams, or simply sharing everyday moments, Matt cherished these experiences and considered the day he became a father the best of his life.
A Legacy of Love and Courage
Matt’s passing on Christmas Day was tragically swift and reflected the profound courage that marked his life. His family, friends, and colleagues continue to honor his memory and the lessons he embodied: kindness, selflessness, curiosity, and steadfast love. Many who knew him recount how he made time for each person he encountered—a testament to his generous heart and gentle leadership.
A Continued Inspiration
For all of us in the University of Iowa Ophthalmology family, Matt Weed represented the very best of our profession—a skillful clinician, a dedicated scholar, a trusted teacher, and, above all, a compassionate human being whose legacy will continue to shape our community. His influence lives on through the countless lives he touched, the trainees he inspired, and the children whose vision and futures he helped brighten.
