For Mattie

You can choose your friends, but you can't choose your family. You often hear that, but WE say friends are your chosen family. The greatest moment of our lives was when Matthew chose us to be his friends and, eventually, his extended family. His friendship transcends death, and saying goodbye isn't for us. Instead, we will say we look forward to seeing our friend again.

Honoring Matt is genuinely about celebrating his life. Memories made with Mattie will never be forgotten and have created a lasting impression on all of us. There is great sorrow in his passing, but we will rejoice and find joy in the memories we have of him. Despite death, these are what will keep him in our hearts forever.

Those remaining to honor his life and memory are his beautiful son, Matt Jr., his beloved sister Joanna, and his devoted mom Griselle.

Mattie, we love you, we miss you, and may you rest in everlasting peace!