Matthew was a well-loved, charming, kind and selfless young man. His trademark smile could knock your socks off. He loved to laugh. One of his greatest loves was basketball: he ate, drank and slept basketball. He loved to play video games, watch sports and was popular with his classmates and teachers. He was a high honors student. He also loved watching action movies and comedies. Matthew possessed a strength of character, maturity and compassion that was beyond his 13 years.
Matthew was a young gentleman who simply embraced the joy of living each day and who looked for the best in others. He taught all who knew him what faith meant—he always believed he was in God’s Hands. He was strong for his family and continuously grateful for their support. He always kept a beautiful smile on his face, maintained his quick wit and funny personality, and always elicited a smile when teasing a family member or a friend, putting them at ease. He was happy to have visitors, even when it became more difficult to receive them and would use the strength he had to hug them, give a hand squeeze and thank them for coming. Everyone drew strength from the courage he displayed.
Matthew passed away in April 2010 after a valiant fight with cancer. He left behind his parents, his sister, grandmother, many aunts, uncles and cousins as well as countless friends who will carry him in their hearts forever.
“Matthew: Your name means “Gift of God,” and truly you were our gift.
