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Matthew Rivard Obituary
Matthew Thomas Rivard, 31, of San Francisco, passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 11, 2013. He was born at Children's Hospital in San Francisco on July 20th, 1981. Matt went to St. Vincent de Paul Grammar School, St. Ignatius High School, received a BA from San Francisco State University, and a Masters in Public Health from UC Berkeley.
Matt was always proud of his 'City by the Bay', his family's long heritage in the Marina and his days spent in the neighborhood on North Point Street. He was a golf member of the Olympic Club, and an avid fan of all San Francisco sports teams. Matt's smile and humorous remarks would always light up a room and he could often be found lifting weights or having a dance off while celebrating with his friends. Some of his favorite activities were boating in Lake Tahoe, kayaking on the Russian River or showing off his golf and tennis skills at his much loved vacation spot in Palm Springs. His favorite pass-time was playing golf with his Popi Bill at the Olympic Club and finishing the day with a Bill's Burger. Matt's most endearing quality was his unwavering love and admiration for his family and close friends.
Matt is survived by his loving parents, Debbie and Tom Rivard, his adoring sister Michelle and brother-in law Carl Zimmerman, all who reside in San Francisco, California. He also leaves his maternal grandmother, Melva Ferenz; and his paternal grandmother Barbara Rivard. He is also survived by his extended family: Uncle Brian, Aunt Carol, and his cousin Carolyn Ferenz; his Uncle James and cousin Andrea Rivard; his Uncle Donald Rivard, and his many close friends in San Francisco.
Friends are invited to visit Monday, June 17th from 3pm-7pm at The Evergreen Mortuary of McAvoy O'Hara. The funeral will be held at 10:30 am on Tuesday, June 18th at St. Vincent de Paul Church in San Francisco; burial will follow at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in Colma. A reception, celebrating Matt's life, will be held at The Golden Gate Yacht Club at 1:30pm.
In lieu of gifts and flowers please send contributions, made payable to the Maybeck Foundation, to 3415 Pierce St, #304, San Francisco, CA 94123. These tax-deductible donations will be given to the Maybeck Foundation (overseer of the preservation of the Palace of Fine Arts) and used to memorialize a park bench at the Palace with Matthew's namesake. This memorial will commemorate Matthew's life and provide his friends and family the opportunity to see him, honor him, and cherish the many great memories shared with him against the picturesque backdrop of the Palace of Fine Arts.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Rivard
gordon robertson
June 10, 2022
Bless you mijo. Gone too soon.
Lauren Sahag
November 10, 2013
Still thinking of you all every day and missing the memories with you all. Still very hard to accept that Matt isn't here. Matt and you all were such a special part of my life. Keeping you in my heart, thoughts and prayers constantly. All my love, Lauren
July 27, 2013
Dear Tom, Debbie And Michelle, Al and I are so sorry for your loss of son and brother. We will remember the happy child of St. Vincent de Paul days. So difficult for parents to lose a child--no matter how old they grow, they are still our children. Love and Peace to all, Al and Tracy Brandi
July 23, 2013
So so sorry...saw this in the SI Genesis.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Mario & Maggie Alioto
Sonoma CA
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Roseanne Alioto
July 7, 2013
To my dearest friends
Having been away when I heard the news was the hardest thing for me. I am so sorry I was not there for you. Matthew will forever be in my thoughts. I loved you both dearly. Roseanne
Nora and Bob Fellini
June 29, 2013
Dear Tom, Debbie and Michelle,
We were so shocked to hear about Matthew that we still cannot believe what happened and we cannot find the words to tell you how deeply saddened we all are.
We can only just imagine the suffering you are going through and the grief and pain in your hearts for your unbelievable loss. You have always been our dearest friends and we are close to you in this terrible moment with all our love.
We first met Matthew when he was in Kindergarten, a sweet little boy playing with Mark, with Debbie as their teacher. Then he grew to become a friendly and handsome young man always gentle and kind, so easy to like.
We will never forget him and he will always be in our prayers and constantly in our thoughts.
All our love,
Nora, Bob and all the Fellini family
Deborah and Darryl Fellini-Tishler
June 28, 2013
Dear Debbie, Tom and Michelle,
We were so shocked to hear the news about Matt. We can't imagine the pain you are feeling. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Elena Seghezza
June 26, 2013
I am close with prayer.
June 24, 2013
Tom, Debbie & michelle,
We were so shocked to receive the call from Debbie this morning. We too have experienced the loss of a loved one, our daughter in law in 2004. Our solice has been our faith and hope in the life heareafter and pray for that peace to be yours also. I think of you and your family often and am sorry that we have not taken the time to be closer. Your family has always been very special to us. I think of all of you often and hope that in our retirement years we can see more of each other. My God bless all of you and strengthen you at this time and always. Our prayers will be with all of you. Tom, please call when you can.
With love,
Dennis & Mary Amendola and family.
P.S.
Thank you so much for the beautiful picture of Matthew. What a special young man he is.
Nick Ostgren
June 19, 2013
Dear Tom, Debbie and Michele,
I am so deeply sorry about Matt's passing. He was like an older brother to me growing up across the street from you guys. My mom told me the news and my heart just sank. I wanted to light a candle in his memory.
My prayers are with you
M. Tyler
June 19, 2013
Tom I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your son. May you and your family find peace.
Kaeli Newkirk
June 18, 2013
Dear Tom, Debbie, Michelle, and Family,
I am so sad to hear about Matt. It is a shock and a very unfortunate loss. There was a time in our young lives when Matt was like a brother to me. I was lucky to spend many memorable days with your family. I will cherish those moments and remember Matt as the funny, handsome, and charming man he was. My prayers are with you all.
Ajamu Stewart
June 18, 2013
Tom,
I can't imagine what you're going through. Your loss is beyond all comprehension. I just wanted to say that you're one of the good guys, one of the nicest people I've ever worked with and learned from. I hope you find peace of mind soon. I'm wishing the best for you and your family. Peace, love and Blessings.
Ajamu
Martita Lee M Weden (Jeung)
June 18, 2013
Dearest Tom, Debbie and Michelle:
I am sorry to hear about the loss of your son and brother. I remembered how Tom lit up when he told me that Matt got into Saint Ignatius HS. No words can express the heart-felt sorrow I have for your family. May Matt rest in peace.
June 18, 2013
Tom and Debbie - We were all shocked to hear about Matt, and are so sorry for your loss. He was a great guy - it was hard not to smile in his presence.
Julie Wellings, The Cohen Group
Steven Lee
June 18, 2013
Dear Debbie, Tom and Michelle,
We are so very saddened to learn of the passing of Matthew. We hope the pain you feel is somewhat lighten by the knowledge Matt is at peace and all the love from everyone for Matt gives you strength.
The Lee Family
Wendy Werth
June 18, 2013
I had the priveledge of living across the street from the Rivard's for 25 years. I can't count the times I watched Matt shooting hoops in the makeshift court or throwing a football in the street with his Dad or friends. And the Cadillac - sitting out front just talking or waiting for Matt (and sometimes Debbie) to come down with his golf clubs. I always admired what a close family they were. Matt always had that bright smile and a kind word. I'm hoping that Matt, Popi, and Roger (my fiancee) are having a heavenly game.
Paula Stewart
June 18, 2013
Tom,
My deepest sympanthies go out to you and your family. I trust that your cherished memories and faith will shore you up during the difficult days ahead.
Eimile Bouas
June 18, 2013
Dear Debbie and Tom,
Spiros and I are so sorry - you are in our thoughts and prayers. Much love.
The Bouas family
Judith & Tom Williams & Azevedo
June 18, 2013
We have no way of understanding your pain. Our hearts ache for all of you.
Kenny Wong
June 18, 2013
Dear Tom and Debbie,
I can't imagine the feeling from the lost of your son, but I can imagine the happy and wonderful times that you all had while Matt was here. Hope the great memories of love and your son's
spirit carry you both through.
Kenny Wong
Joseph Ossai
June 18, 2013
Joseph Ossai - I worked with Matt's father here at the Department of Public Health and we always discuss work and life.
This is a huge loss to my colleague Tom and sincerely pray that God Almighty grant him and his family strength to move forward from here.
Sandra & Bob Ahlbach
June 18, 2013
I so sorry to hear about Matt. I will miss him not coming up the River. I am so sorry Tom & Debbie. Our prayers are with You.
James Langley
June 18, 2013
I just wanted to share how fond I was of Matt and what great friends we became while living in the dorms at SRJC. I still think of him often and always smile at how much joy he brought to my life and made an impact in me that will last forever. So sorry for your loss!
Ashleigh Smith
June 17, 2013
Dear Debbie, Tom and Michelle.
I am so incredibly sad for your loss. Matt was an amazing young man on every level. Although it has been some time since we had hung out, he will forever be remembered for his kind heart, loving and vivacious personality, his beautiful looks and his intelligent mind. Matt RIP as you will be missed by many! We love you!!! ???
Aaron Bennett
June 17, 2013
I will forever remember my very good friend and kindred soul Matt from our days at UC Berkeley. He was quick to offer me a smile and a handshake when during our first semester and became fast friends afterwards, even living in the same residence for a time. I admired Matt's quick wit, and was impressed with his often humble intelligence. I was jealous of his incredible charisma; his ability to make others laugh and converse freely with most anyone. I cherish the hours we laughed sharing juvenile jokes during class to break up the overly serious tone, the late nights preparing papers and presentations, and the evenings out. With Matt there was never a dull moment, rather there was always some level of inquisition, outrage, or hilarity constantly ensuing. This was Matt's way of living life to the fullest; a bar I often look to but am afraid I will never meet. I had a quiet conversation with him today; wherever he is he has promised to save me a seat. I can already envision his inviting welcome when i see him next, just like every other time he has greated me so warmly, with open arms and his unmatched smile,.
Ana Carcamo
June 17, 2013
Tom & Ms. Rivard
I'm so sorry for your loss. May you comfort in all your memories.
Vita & Carlos Rodriguez & Family
June 17, 2013
Dear Debbie, Tom, Michelle & Carl,
Sending you our heartfelt sympathies during this difficult time. We are shocked to hear of your loss. May your fond memories of Matt bring you comfort during this difficult time.
Ed McGuirk
June 17, 2013
Tom and Debbie,
May all of the wonderful memories of Matthew help you through this most difficult time. His life was a gift that your family and friends will carry with them forever. Our prayers are with you.
Jeanne Pellegrini Sachnoff
June 17, 2013
Dear Debbie, Tom and Michelle,
I'm so sorry to hear of Matt's untimely passing. May you find strength in each other and consolation in the wonderful memories you have of him.
Jeremy & Luisa Newkirk
June 17, 2013
We will deeply miss Matthew. We met Matthew when he was 6 years old and have remained close friends and shared innumerable memories with all of the Rivard's ever since. Matthew was such an excellent son, had such a great personality, was full of humor and fun, always had a big smile for everyone, was always happy to see us and our family, and was always kind and thoughtful to everyone. He was just a joy to be around. We are still recovering from the shock at such a tragic loss and can't begin to imagine the heartbreak his family must be enduring. Matthew and his entire family will all be in our prayers because it is our faith that gives us the strength to get through tragedies such as these. All our love and sympathy to Michelle, Debbie, Tom and their family! Lou, Jerr, Danielle, Kaeli, Alex, and Harry.
Amy Meyer
June 17, 2013
Tom & Debbie
Sadness fills my heart with the news of Matt's passing.
I will always have fond memories of Matt. We played the SVDP Men's Club Golf Tournament together, along with Clark & Jim-- Winning Foursome that year!! Matt could boom the ball with his driver! Thoughts & prayers to you & your family.
Todd Cannata
June 17, 2013
Tom, Debbie and Michelle,
I am so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in all your memories of Matt.
June 17, 2013
Dear Tommie and Familia,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Words are truly inadequate to express the grief I feel in my heart right now. Tommie, you and your loved ones are in my prayers.
Gordon Robertson
Stefano Remus
June 17, 2013
Dear Thomas,
We were saddened to hear the news about the death of your son.
May he rest in peace.
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Adriana Marenco
Stefano Remus
Alberto Remus
Annamaria Robello
Cogoleto (Genoa-Italy)
Raffaella Seghezza
June 17, 2013
Carissimi Tom, Debbie e Michelle
Siamo sgomenti e increduli davanti a un dolore davvero troppo grande.
Ricordiamo lo sguardo pulito, generoso e leale di Matt, e il suo sorriso solare e gentile. Un figliolo splendido, di una famiglia splendida!
Vi abbracciamo forte e preghiamo con voi
Raffaella con Andrea Fede Bianca e Filippo
Paul Griego
June 17, 2013
Blessings in your time of grief. I will always remember such fond memories of Matt and your family. So sorry for you loss.
Stephanie Cushing
June 17, 2013
Dear Debby and Tom: I am so sorry for your loss. Matthew's passing takes my breath away. My prayers and thoughts are with you
June 17, 2013
Dear Tom,Debbie and Michelle,
We were so very sorry to hear the news of Matt's passing. All of you are in our prayers and thoughts.
Love, Kris and Mike Peterson and Family
Giuseppe Scarrone
June 17, 2013
We were grieved at the new about Matthew's death and we are offering you our condolences upon it. May God bless you all.
Cousins Giuseppe, Lucia, Cristina, Alessandra. Cogoleto - Italia.
Stephanie Cowles
June 17, 2013
Dear Tom and family,
My heart feels so heavy and I am so sorry to hear of your loss.
megan gaydos
June 17, 2013
So so sorry for your loss. I hope that in this time of sadness and grieving, your family is able to come together closely, support each other, and live vibrantly as he would have. Sending warm hugs and much sympathy, megan
Francesca Alioto
June 17, 2013
Dear Tom,Debbie and Family,
May God's love surround you and keep you through this time of sorrow. Loved ones leave the world but never
our hearts.
Love,
Francesca Alioto
Meg Wall
June 17, 2013
Tom and Family,
I am so deeply sorry to hear about the loss of your dear son and brother. You are in my thoughts and heart. I hope the love and support of family and friends will bring you some peace and comfort.
LINDA SELHORN
June 17, 2013
DEBBIE AND TOM MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU DURLING THESE SAD TIMES
Karen Yu
June 17, 2013
Dear Tom and Family, I am very sad for your loss. I will pray for God's peace and comfort for you all.
June 16, 2013
Dear Debbie, Tom and Michelle,
Our deepest sympathy on the passing of Matt. I remember him so fondly as a little boy in tow with Michell around Little Gators and SVdP. Blessings to you all, Dolores, Bob and Gebhardt Family
June 16, 2013
Debbie, Tom and Michelle,
I am so sorry for your loss! I will always remember Matt with all the fun times at Russian river! The cute little boy I would baby sit that turned in to a Handsome man! !May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Kelly Koenig
Lauren Jones
June 16, 2013
Tom, Debbie, Michelle and family,
My heart is broken for you and for the memories of Matt. I feel so lucky to have known him and all of you. You are in my thoughts and prayers continuously. Love and strength to you all now and forever.
"Lord, be with Matt and with those who have so loved him in this world. Guide him to the light of Your eternal rest and peace, and console those of us who remain with Your strength and love. May all of us use this difficult time to become a source of support and comfort for one another. Amen."
Tina Canepa
June 16, 2013
Dearest Debbie & Tom & Family,
My heart goes out to all of you. I am sure that your handsome son in looking down
upon you all and he will give you the strength to go on.
May God bless you all. My deepest heartfilled sympathy.
With Love, Tina
June 16, 2013
Offering sincere condolences. May your family find comfort in Psalm 65:2
June 16, 2013
Dear Tom, Debbie and Michele,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.
Buzz & Nancy Rechsteiner
Judy Chiosso-Glass
June 16, 2013
Broken hearts are running rampant through the Marina and abroad. God please give all the strength to overcome their loss and grief for the Rivard family and friends. Remember the smiles and love on this boy's face forever.
June 16, 2013
Dear Tom ,Debbie and Michele,
We are so sad to hear the news of Matt,s passing. Our hearts and prayers are with you
Denise and Ted Schwartz
June 16, 2013
Our prayers are for Matt and his Family during this sad time. We are so sorry for your lost.
The Giovannini Family, Dave, Nancy, Melanie Domenica and Davey G.
Cynthia MacLeod
June 16, 2013
My heart was so saddened when I learned of Matt leaving us much too soon. I remember him as one of the sweetest, kindest kids at SVDP. My prayers for your healing and for God's love to comfort you at this difficult time.
June 16, 2013
Dear Tom & Debbie,
We are so sorry to hear about your son Matthew. Or thoughts and prayers are with you. Jack & Fran Dunne
Jaime Diamond
June 16, 2013
Dear Tom, Debbie, Michelle & Carl
We are sending prayers and love. Shocked and so sad to hear Matt is gone, wishing we lived closer to be there and support you.
Peace and Blessings
Jaime Chiosso-Diamond and family. Jason, Matthew and Molly
Simona Stewart
June 15, 2013
Dear Debbie,Michelle And family. Please accept my heartfelt condolences on your loss. Love The Stewart's
Bella and Giovanni send their love to you all at this time.
mary foley
June 15, 2013
Tom, Debbie, Michelle,
So very sorry to hear bout Matthew. I remem ber teaching him in second grade not so long ago. He was such a gentle soul. Love and blessings, Mary Foley
Al MacLeod
June 15, 2013
Dear Debbie, Tom & Michelle,
We were very sorry to hear the news of Matt's passing. Our hearts and prayers go out to all of you during this challenging time.
All the best,
Al MacLeod
Susan Atherton
June 15, 2013
I will miss you Matt. Your spirit lit up the lives of those who knew you. Your journey continues on in time and space, for your wonderful spirit can never be suppressed. Much love, Susan
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