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Matthew Coutu Obituary
Born in Freehold, NJ, he moved to Lake Forest, Illinois in 1994 and to North Kingstown in 2002. Matthew graduated from Lake Forest High School in 2000, where he was captain of its football team and also competed in track, wrestling and shot put. He graduated from University of Maine in 2004 majoring in History with a 3.4 GPA. As a senior in the Reserve Office Training Corps, he received that organizations highest honor, the George C. Mitchell Award. He was assigned to the 64th Military Police Company, 720th Military Police Battalion, 89th Military Police Brigade in Fort Hood, TX. Besides his parents, he is survived by his brother; Derek M. Coutu of Norwood, MA, a half brother; Andrew Coutu of North Hampton, NH, a half sister; Holly A. Coutu of Canterbury, CT, his maternal grandmother; Alice E. Matarazzo of Smithfield and his paternal grandmother; Gertrude M. Coutu of Warwick. He was the grandson of the late Sandino J. Matarazzo and Clarence J. Coutu. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday at 10:00 AM in St. John the Baptist Church, 40 Washington St., West Warwick, followed by interment with Military Honors in RI Veterans Cemetery, Exeter. VISITING HOURS Wednesday 3-8 PM in the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Operation Support Our Troops, P.O. Box 404, North Kingstown, RI 02852.
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Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Coutu
Cory
May 26, 2025
I am thinking of you and your family today, Matt. Whenever Memorial Day passes, you are always the first person that comes to mind. The first friend I knew personally to be lost in the wars of our generation. You remain an inspiration to me and a reminder to live each day to its fullest. Rest well.
Michael Coutu
November 6, 2024
Matt,
Today marks what would have been your 43rd birthday, 20 years since you were ripped from our lives.
Your death is a void never filled, a loss never healed. I cherish the memories of a son much loved.
If words can slip the bonds of earth, happy birthday.
Love,
Dad
Nancy
May 27, 2024
To Matt´s Family and Friends,
Today I participated in a 5k run to honor those lost in service to our country. I was honored to be given Matt´s name to say at the Circle of Remembrance. I found the articles about him and then this page, and am even more honored after reading through it all. What an amazing man he was. It was extra special to see we both graduated high school in 2000. His name and legacy live on and we honor him and your family this Memorial Day.
Michael Coutu
November 6, 2023
Matt,
Today would have been your 42nd birthday. There aren't any words or thoughts that I have not not previously shared but feelings remain unchanged -- an unmeasurable loss, missed beyond description and loved no less than when you were taken from us 18 years ago.
Happy Birthday,
Dad
Rob
August 16, 2023
Matt
I just sat in a OBC Graduation and was pleasantly surprised to hear that USAMPS awards the Honor Graduate of each OBC Class the Matthew S. Coutu Award. I met with the 2LT afterwards and expressed to her what a great leader and friend you were to so many people. Thinking about you like I do every 27 Jun and 6 Nov.
Mike Coutu
June 27, 2023
Matthew,
I write this as if you are still with us but there isn´t another way to express the grief and sorrow to have lost a son who was so loved. Thoughts and reflection alone do not fully measure the depth of ring my sadness and pain.
We observe this day the 18th anniversary of that terrible day but remember you for the guy you were, someone who lived life with great purpose, resolve and dedication to what was important to you.
Perhaps most notable was your unwavering effort to fulfill commitments and expectations often in challenging situations. That quality differentiated you among your peers in service to our country, acknowledged by those who served under you, as well as those in command above you.
I will always be proud of you and treasure the son you were.
Dad
Michael A. Coutu
November 24, 2022
It’s Thanksgiving; thinking of you, missing you, love you
Dad
Michael A. Coutu
November 6, 2022
Matt,
Today would been your 41st birthday. You, however, will be forever 23, the age when you were taken from us.
There aren’t any words I have not previously expressed but I will again say that your untimely death was a crushing loss to all who loved you.
Always loved; never forgotten,
Dad
Diane Popiak
June 29, 2022
It is so hard to believe it´s been 17 years since you were taken from us. I often wonder what you would have accomplished in those years, and where you would have been in life. I´m sure you would have gone far in the military or whatever venture you pursued. I still feel such sorrow for your parents and brother and I´m sure you´re looking over them everyday; just leave them a message to let them know if you can.
I hope the life you are living in heaven is magnificent and we´ll all join you there in the future.
Love Diane
Dad
June 28, 2022
Dear Matt,
Recent surgery kept me from visiting your grave yesterday. Nonetheless, the Giandomenico's have placed a floral wreath over you as they have every year since your passing. Of all my friends, they have honored you the most.
It is with disbelief that 17 years have passed. Although Andrew was only 5 at the time, he has many memories of you, well beyond what I expected. We recently sold our home in Rye Beach and in packing for the move, we have been going through years of things collected, stored or stashed in end tables, bookcases, desks, closets, book bags and back backs. In the process, we found a binder Andrew made for school probably in Grade 7 or 8. The themes were to describe the 3 most important things in your life, the 3 saddest moments and the 3 happiest.
To our surprise, he wrote about you along with Derek among the most important things and perhaps as expected, he described your being taken from us as the saddest memory. Again he was only 5 years old but you touched him in a way that was clearly profound.
Although I could not physically be with you yesterday, I certainly reflected on you and the years of you growing up in Middletown, NJ then Lake Forest, IL. Perhaps because there were no new memories to be made, those special memories from birth to pinning your second lieutenant bars and our final goodbye at Fort Hood just before you shipped out to Iraq, are forever engraved in my mind and shall never be forgotten.
Love,
Dad
Mike
February 13, 2022
Matt,
It's been a while since I've dropped by this site to say hi. We all speak of you often and discuss how much we miss you. Your humor, support, and intellect made you the ideal friend. Being deprived of your presence generates an obvious void.
As the years go on and more people leave this life, it is always humbling to feel the pain of loss when remembering you. Loss and grief generate such immense hurt it is a wonder what the purpose of this pain is to us as humans. Maybe it reminds us of how meaningful our relationships are in life, to remind us of the necessity of shared experience, goals, and camaraderie. When we lose someone critical to our existence, we feel the absence on a visceral level.
Whatever the answer is, I wish you were around to discuss it.
We miss you, Matt.
Michael Coutu
November 6, 2021
Matthew,
Today would have been your 40th birthday. Your untimely death makes this a hollow milestone but in my heart you are still a deep part of my life and will forever be.
I will never be fully reconciled that 16 years ago your life was taken. If only that horrible moment could somehow be changed to have granted you a life you richly deserved.
Wish as I might, it can not change reality. You were taken away and the sadness which remains never dulls. I will always cherish the memories of you and in that light you will forever live, a son much loved.
Dad
November 6, 2021
Matthew,
Today would have been your 40th birthday. Your untimely death makes this a hollow milestone but in my heart you are still a deep part of my life and will forever be.
I will never be fully reconciled that 16 years ago your life was taken. If only that horrible moment could somehow be changed to have granted you a life you richly deserved.
Wish as I might, it can not change reality. You were taken away and the sadness which remains never dulls. I will always cherish the memories of you and in that light you will forever live, a son much loved.
Dad
Michael Coutu
June 27, 2021
Matthew,
Another year, another visit. As years roll on, these trips to the RI Veterans Cemetery blur almost indistinguishable and my comments on this Legacy site, have become repetitive. Hard to find new words to express old feelings. What do not change is the tragedy of that day, the pain of losing you and how much you were loved.
Many more years will pass but you will never be forgotten nor loved less.
Dad
michael coutu
November 6, 2020
My dear Matthew,
Today marks your 39th birthday. By now, your chosen career would be established. Likely, you would also have a wife, a family, a home and all of the trappings of taking your rightful place in society. Of course, none of that would happen. Violently taken from us at 23, we can only speculate how your life might have evolved. Whatever choices you might have made would have at least given us the change to share in each other’s life but that was not to be.
As I reflect about you on this day, I am left with memories of what once was and no memories of what could have been. I admire you for the decision you made to serve our Country but the price you paid overshadows the nobleness of your choice and the void it created.
Despite the brevity of your short life, we will always remember those precious years and cherish what we shared.
To a son much loved, Happy Birthday!
Dad
Cory J
June 28, 2020
Matt,
Another year has gone by, and I find myself reading and re-reading the posts to you on this site. I still think of you each year on Memorial Day, at the end of June, and each time my unit gives a toast to fallen comrades in arms.
Knowing who you were in high school, I frequently wonder what you would be doing now had you survived your deployment. Maybe you would still be on active duty, maybe not. However, based off the commitment, leadership, and friendship I saw when we were on the track team back in LFHS, I am certain you would be a revered member of whatever community in which you would have resided. Maybe you would have been a football coach for the local youth team. Maybe you would have been a repeat volunteer at local clothing or food drives. Maybe you would have been a caring father and husband to your own family. Whatever it was you would have been destined for, I am certain you would have been great and a continued example for the rest of us to follow.
I am always moved by the words of your father. They help remind us of the true meaning of your sacrifice, the weight of the loss of not only who you were, but who you would have been for your family, community, and country today.
Rest well my friend,
Cory
Michael Coutu
June 27, 2020
My dear Matt,
Another year has passed, now 15 since the day you were taken from us. No words can aptly describe the pain of losing a child and how much you are missed. I think of you very often, the strapping lad who was always working out to stay in shape and maintain that strong, muscular physique.
You were always dedicated to the causes you believe in with iron commitment. I remember well that despite a football injury that ended you senior season, you answered the call of the wrestling coach to fill in an empty slot for the good of the team. Not having wrestled before; it was a difficult season but you were unwavering in your commitment to school and team to complete the season.
I remember how on the eve of shipping out to Iraq, you rounded up members of your platoon who were out "celebrating" a last night before going to war to ensure all made it back to the barracks safely. I remember when you used your own money to buy better flak jackets for you platoon that they would be better protected.
You consistently put the interest of others before yourself and that my son, is the mark of a true leader who led by example not empty words.
I admire you for many reasons and very proud to say you were my son. Who knows what the after life is like but it is with a deep sense of hope that we will be reunited in some fashion and that I will again have the opportunity to say how much you are loved.
Dad
Michael Coutu
November 6, 2019
Dear Matt,
November 6, 2019 -- today marks what would have been your 38th birthday. Of course there will be no birthday cards, cake, or celebration; that ended 15 years ago.
We remember those few birthdays we did share; good memories but just no new ones.
Nonetheless we remember you this day and often wonder where life would have taken you if only we could change but a second of history.
Dad
June 28, 2019
I will always remember you and cherish our times together in high school. Coach O.
Michael Coutu
June 27, 2019
Matt,
Today marks the 14th anniversary of your untimely death. I visited with you this day at your final resting place, perhaps aware of my presence, perhaps not. Albie Giandomenico had a floral arrangement placed by the grave stone, something he and his family have done for 13 years. They recognize and acknowledge the sacrifice you made for our Country and for the freedoms many take for granted.
Then and now, I remain proud of you to have chosen a path more difficult and despite the invasion of Iraq in 2003, you stayed your course to serve in the US Army, well knowing that combat was a certainty. A man of conviction, steadfast in your resolve; like your constant training as an athlete, you understood the true meaning of commitment.
We miss you greatly; I have lost a son and Derek a brother but many have lost a dear friend. Know that you will always be loved and your sacrifice never forgotten.
Dad
Michael Coutu
November 6, 2018
Matt,
Happy Birthday on what would have been your 37th birthday. This birthday like many before will be remembered but not celebrated.
All who knew you miss you and those who loved you still pain at the loss of you and all wish you were still among us.
Love,
Dad
Michael Coutu
June 27, 2018
Dear Matt,
Today marks the 13th anniversary of your death. Long enough that the once searing pain of the loss of you has soften but not and perhaps never, the profound sadness that you were taken from us at only 23 years of age.
I can only hope that you are now in God's hands in eternal rest and peace. I often pray that this is the case that you were a good man with a good heart, someone who cared deeply for others and that in judgment God too saw the good.
I often wonder if God grants you the opportunity to glimpse down at those of us left behind to see how much you were loved and now missed.
At 70 years and with less years ahead than have passed, I also wonder if we will be together in the eternal life in some semblance of a father and his son.
As always we have a Mass being said this morning in your memory then I will drive to your grave site to reflect about you in life and the relative few but much cherished memories of a son much loved.
Dad
Michael Coutu
June 27, 2018
Dear Matt,
Today marks the 13th anniversary of your death. Long enough that the once searing pain of the loss of you has soften but not and perhaps never, the profound sadness of that your were taken from us at only 23 years of age.
I can only hope that you are now in God's hands in eternal rest and peace. I often pray that this is the case that you were a good man with a good heart someone who cared deeply for others and that in judgment God too saw the good.
I often wonder if God grants you the opportunity to glimpse down at those of us left behind to see how much you were loved and now missed.
At 70 years and with less years ahead than have passed, I also wonder if we will be together in the eternal life in some semblance of a father and his son.
As always we have a Mass being said this morning in your memory than I will drive to your grave site to reflect about you in life and the relative few but much cherished memories of a son much loved.
Dad
Michael Coutu
June 26, 2018
Matt,
Tomorrow is the 13th anniversary of your death. Long enough to soften the searing pain of losing you but not so long that thoughts of you are still painful.
Not knowing where your soul rest, i pray often that you are in God's hands, in eternal peace and rest. I know that you were a good man with a good heart so I take solace that in judgment of your soul, good prevailed.
I often wonder whether God grants you a glimpse to see those of us who remain behind and know how much you are loved and missed.
I also wonder if in death we will be united in some fashion that we will share something together -- a father and his son.
At 70, the years which remain are far less than those that have passed. So if there is any reserved seating where you are, save me a seat! I will be along; I just do not know when.
In the meantime, I will spend the day tomorrow at your grave site, thinking about you and remembering you for the son you were and of whom I am very proud.
Love Dad
November 7, 2017
Matt,
I remember the times we spent together as Coach and athlete. Talking to you and Pat Staggs were some of the most enjoyable moments I have ever had with any kids. I was always impressed with your quiet determination and drive. I still coach and relate to my athletes your story and inspiration. I certainly miss you but you are not forgotten
Coach O
Michael Coutu
November 6, 2017
Matt,
Had the hand of fate been less cruel, we would be celebrating your 36th birthday this day.
Were you not been taken from us, you likely would be celebrating the day with your own family, a wife maybe a couple of kids!
Sadly, because we lost you at just 23 years old, that opportunity was taken from you. We can only imagine what should have been but will never be.
All who loved you deeply wish that you were still with us. Memories are treasured but new ones will never be created. As a father, I will never share the experience of seeing his son take his rightful place in society -- a career, wife, children, a first home -- and the accomplishments that would define you.
Nonetheless, I am very thankful to have had you as a son however brief that special period was.
Happy Birthday!
Love,
Dad
October 11, 2017
Dear Matt, I knew you from the time your mother was pregnant with you! I knew you when you were a little boy. I did not get to know you as a young man and an adult but heard of your death many years ago now. I have thought of you, your brother and your parents often. I want to thank you for the ultimate sacrifice you made for our country. It is because of people like you that we remain safe today.
To Michael and Donna I am so very sorry for the death of Matthew. I remember the joy we shared when he was born healthy. His life was taken away too soon! I think of you both often and hope you are leading good lives even after this tragedy. I'm sure the pain never goes away you just learn how to live with it. Please stay strong and remember there are always people thinking about you, and praying for your family, including Matthew!
Love, Diane (Dieffenbach) Popiak
michael coutu
June 27, 2017
Dear Matt,
Another year, another anniversary of the day you were taken from us. Despite all the evidence to the contrary, sometimes the reality of what happened escapes me. May be its denial but for me its still hard to accept that you died.
We are all getting older and busy with the demands of every day life. Your life, however, is forever frozen in time never to age beyond the 23 years you were with us.
I have kept and gathered many things that pertain to you, a half-dozen large boxes. The intent is pull together a scrapebook of your life but going through the memories of you is just too hard. May be someday I will find the courage to do it but that is not now.
I pray often for you not knowing if it helps; may be I do it because it helps me. I do hope that wherever you may be, it is peaceful and absent of the pain, suffering and memory of that dreadful day.
> Those who knew you best, love you most. And to all those who have sent a kind or thoughtful note, I thank you. For all of you who were his friend, thank you for that friendship.
The father of son who was much loved...
Dad
April Hunter
November 11, 2016
I received your name as one of America's fallen Heros. I will carry your tag with pride, and make sure you and your service will never be forgotten.
Michael Coutu
June 27, 2016
Matt,
Eleven years ago this day, you were taken from us; shot in the back by a lone gunman. I can't help but wonder if you would have survived had the flak jacket been longer or the bullet an inch or so higher. Perhaps foolish speculation but that you were struck down and died despite so many advances in combat medicine contributes to the difficulty in accepting the loss of you. I remember like it was yesterday when Lt. Colonel Taradash called from Baghdad to explain the circumstances of your death, the words not only pierced my heart but thoughts of why and how flooded my mind in the effort to reject the reality of your being killed.
Sadly, I have learned more about you since your passing then I ever knew during your life. It is natural for parents to think of their children in glowing terms but in your case the collective view of many was that you were a great guy, someone who led quietly by act and deed whether on the field of sports or in military service, someone who many were proud to have called you a good friend. The men in your platoon admired you and knew well that they could count on you to put their interests before those of your own no matter how great the consequences may be. You were their leader and you knew well the burden of leadership.
We will forever treasure the memories of you, thankful and proud to call you my son.
Love,
Dad
November 6, 2015
Matt,
Today marks your 34th birthday, an occasion we will never share again. However, you will always be remembered by us and the many who you have touched during the brevity of your life. You were recently honored and remembered by a newly formed group called The Summit Project founded by David Cote, a Major in the United States Marine Corps based in Washington, DC. David is a Maine native and formed this organization to honor the fallen heroes who have had some kind of connection to Maine. TSP honors our heroes by having volunteers who carry a stone each engraved with the name of one fallen in service to our country during the GWOT. Your stone was carried last October by Renee Fournier to the top of Mt. Cadillac in Acadia National Park where a brief ceremony was held in your name and others whose stone was also carried to the mountain top. In your honor, Renee and fellow volunteers drank a shot of Jack as has become a tradition in remembering you.
People today are very thankful to those who served our nation and are particularly thankful to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and that you and others who gave their life shall never be forgotten.
We love you always and miss you greatly.
Dad
August 19, 2015
Matt,
You will never be forgotten-You are Loved and missed every day!
-Jane (Illinois)
July 6, 2015
Matt
Still on my mind. Still in my heart. The memories and feelings have not waned.
Drew
Erin
June 27, 2015
It is so hard to believe that it has been 10 years. I remember you and I chatting and watching hockey games with Adrian like it was yesterday. You were such an inportant person in my life, if it wasn't for you, I never would have met Adrian. We still touch base to this day, although it will never be the same. Please look down on him and guide him through the hard days. I know you are with us all. On this day and every day, we honor your sacrifice.
Give that doggie a kiss From me!
June 27, 2015
June 27,2015
Dear Matt,
I will be visiting your gravesite today, the 10th anniversary of the dreadful day you were taken from us. In one sense it seems like it happened yesterday. Certain events have such an deep impact that one remembers exactly where they were and what they were doing when the event occurred. Your death was such an event; forever etched in my memory.
The news that day was like running into a brick wall head first, dazed, confused and disbelief at the words "Matt died." It seemed surreal; not sure whether this was reality or a bad dream. Yet deep inside I knew it was true; save when, more expected than surprised.
Perhaps a premonition but I knew when we said our goodbyes at Ft. Hood that January, 2005, it would be the last time we saw each other. As I watched you drive off in your Ford Explorer, my heart sank. I was overwhelmed with sadness...
I wish I could have stopped the inevitable but knew this is what you wanted to do; not a knee jerk decision but rather a deep sense of commitment to serve.
As I look back over your short life, volunteering to join the Army was your destiny. Given your fascination with all things military from toy soldiers to Navy Seals, it became apparent that someday you would indeed serve our Country.
That commitment made me very proud of you but to have lost you as the price for duty and devotion certainly begs the question whether I should have encouraged you to have taken a different road.
I hope that you are in a better place but what does that mean? I wonder if you truly at peace, I wonder if you hear my prayers; I wonder about many things but most of all whether we will see each other in another life.
Until then, know how much you are loved and missed.
Dad
February 22, 2015
Matt: I knew you as a boy and a man. I still coach track at age 70 and every year I tell my kids your story. Coach O.
Andrea Orr (Lockhart)
February 21, 2015
Forever remembered and loved! Xoxo
Amy Lea
November 7, 2014
Thinking of you and your family today.
Mike Coutu
November 6, 2014
Matt,
Today marks what would have been your 33rd birthday. It is very difficult to accept that you were taken from us almost 10 years ago at age 23. How young you were to have your life cut so short.
If there is an awareness of such things in the after life, then I wish you a Happy Birthday on this day when we reflect a bit more on how much you are missed and loved.
That you are at peace is my only birthday wish for you.
Dad
July 12, 2014
Matt
Still my guide. Still my standard. Still my friend. Love you.
drew
Michael Coutu
June 29, 2014
Matt,
We visited with you on the anniversary of that horrific day 9 years ago. It was a gorgeous day, in sharp contrast to reason and purpose of our visit.
There isn't a day that we do not think of you and often say a quiet prayer that you are at peace in your eternal rest.
I will be forever proud of you for serving our country and all of who knew you shall never forget the ultimate sacrifice you made for our country and all of us.
We miss you greatly but love you more.
Dad
David Freeland
June 27, 2014
Matty you will always remain a great man with a big heart. I think of you often my friend. You are sadly missed by all but you will never be forgotten. Peace.
David
March 10, 2014
Hey LT miss you and love you.
Sgt Lucas
Mike O
November 8, 2013
Hey Matt,
I know it's a little late but I just wanted to wish you a Happy Birthday. You are sorely missed my friend.
Mike
drew
October 3, 2013
Thinking of you my friend.
Amy Lea
June 28, 2013
Matt,
I can't believe it has been 8 years since your passing. It is still so hard to believe. You were a great guy. I will never forget your laugh. You are intertwined in so many college memories for so many of us. Your name comes up followed by lots of laughter anytime we talk about those days. You are so greatly missed.
June 27, 2013
Matt,
Today marks the 8th anniversary of that dreadful day. We are sitting by your final resting place talking, remembering, praying. My long term friend Albie's father, Al, his sister Donna and her two children came to visit as well. Every year since your passing, they honor and remember you with a floral arrangement laid by your side -- always thoughtful, never forgetting the sacrifice you made.
Your Mom and Aunt Sandy are also here and saluted you with a shot of Jack Daniels in your honor, something of tradition observed each year on this day.
Don Meeks, your former company commander at Fort Hood and in Iraq sent a note this morning remembering you noting that you and your sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Those who knew you, miss you a great deal, a feeling which will not diminish over the passage of time. And for those who loved you, we are saddened by the loss of you but are grateful that you were part of our lives, short as it was. We think of you often through the memories than remain.
We will always love you and take comfort that you are at peace and hope that someday we will again be together.
Dad
Patrick Sommers
May 29, 2013
Thank you Matt for serving our country and keeping our families safe.Never forget Matt Coutu!
May 29, 2013
Thank you for serving our country. Your family will always remain in our thoughts and prayers.
louise moan-bouteiller
May 28, 2013
You are and always will be in our thoughts and prayers. Thank you for serving our country.
Cory
May 27, 2013
Matt,
We are all blessed to have known you. Rest assure that your memory is kept alive through your friends and family. There is not a Memorial Day that passes where I do not keep you in my thoughts and place a silent toast in your honor. So here is to you, 2d Lt Coutu, thank you for your service and for showing us how to live.
Amy Lea
December 20, 2012
Thinking of you and your family this Christmas. Not many stories of the college days go by without talk of you and the impact you had on all of us. We were lucky to know you. Your UMO friends think of you often.
December 19, 2012
Though we never knew you, how we would have loved to....... Your cousins in Connecticut, Louise (Moan) Bouteiller, and family....
November 6, 2012
Dear Matt,
Today marks what would have been your 31st birthday. There will be no candles to blow out, cake to share or cards and gifts to give you; just memories of past birthdays, no new ones to celebrate.
Who's to say whether such earthly customs are observed but in just in case there some awareness of this special day -- Happy Birthday!
You will always be missed and loved,
Dad
November 4, 2012
Always remembered and loved.
June 28, 2012
Matt,
Remembering you always. Gone too soon.
Alicia
CPT Luces
Michael Coutu
June 27, 2012
Dear Matt,
It was Monday morning,June 27, 2005 that you were taken from us; the cowardly act of a lone sniper. One monent alive and well; another in the grasp of death.
We remember you in life but mark this sad day visiting the place where you rest, the final stop in a life too short. We believe, we hope, we pray that you are in eternal peace and we believe, we hope and we pray that we will one day be together again, without end, a father and his son.
On this 7th anniversary, the years are growings but are love is no less. I miss you, saddened that there are no more moments to share, no new memories to build. Perhaps the greatest pain is not that I did not love you in life but that I now know I could have loved you more.
Dad
drew
June 7, 2012
Matt
Thinking of you today. You remain in my thoughts as a friend and a guide.
Amy Lea
May 28, 2012
Thinking of you today and your family today.
Mike O
February 24, 2012
Hey bud,
Just stopping by. Crazy to think it's been almost seven years now you were taken from us. Still feels like yesterday.
Mike
michael coutu
November 6, 2011
dear matt,
today would have been your 30th birthday had you not been taken from us that dreadful day slmost 7 years ago. it would have been great to celebrate together this significant milestone in the journey of life.
nonethess, we mark this day simply with the worfs of happy birthday and the wish of eternal peace.
we love and miss you greatly.
dad
Amy Lea
September 11, 2011
I think of you often, especially on days like today. Though it has been years since your passing, your memory still weaves its way in and out of my mind. Sending warm thoughts to your family.
Peggy Childers
June 27, 2011
To the family and friends of 2nd Lt. Matthew S. Coutu:
Please accept my remembrance of Matthew on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
mike coutu
June 27, 2011
Dear Matt,
Today is the 6th anniversary of the day an enemy bullet found its dreadful mark. Aside from the loss of you, what pains me most is knowing that at that moment you were fully aware of what happened. You fell slowly, gently placing your rifle on the ground in stark contrast to the violence which just ocurred.
I can only guess at what thoughts most have gone through your mind. Certainly you knew you were shot and said so "They shot me in the back Sergeant Lucas." It would be your last words; that you suffered will forever haunt me.
I visited with you at your gravesite. Such time is filled with thoughts of you in life, special moments forever treasured, the day Army officers knocked on our door. the blur of the days that followed, a final good bye, the playing of Taps in the distant wind.
Of the many feelings which arise when thinking of you, hardest of all is that we all miss you terribly. Among your family and friends, you will always be much loved.
Be at peace,safe in the palm of His hand.
Dad
Amy Lea
June 1, 2011
Thinking of you always. You were a dear friend. We miss you and think of you and your family often.
Love, The Lea's
May 31, 2011
You live on in our wonderful, crazy, unforgettable memories. I love and miss you Matthew, now and forever.
xoxo Jaclyn (Kelley) Cardenas - aka plato
Jaclyn (Kelley) Cardenas
May 31, 2011
The memory of your (albeit sarcastic) sense of humor and duty to protect lives on in our hearts, now and forever....
Love and miss you
Jaclyn (aka plato)
Phuong Ly
May 30, 2011
how odd that today is actually memorial day. i cant sleep and now i am here writing this post. i miss the crazy guy. one of my best college buddies.
Andrew Sanders
May 28, 2011
Still thinking of you my friend.
Alicia Luces
February 19, 2011
You will always be missed Matt.......
CPT Alicia Luces
Merci McKinley
December 7, 2010
You were the best platoon leader I've ever had the privilege of knowing and to have serve with. It is amazing how precious life can be, but its even a greater blessing to have met and serve with you. Every now and again, great leaders are revealed in this military, and you sir were certainly one of them. Tragically you lost your life, but I wanted to say thank you for having been one of my teachers, and one of those leaders that I was honored to follow. Its not something that you can easily get over, but I sure was blessed to have met you and SGT Atkins because the memories continues to shape me and mold me into the best leader I can be. I owe and will continue to salute you sir. As I raised the flag on flag detail, I thought of you sir and remembered why I continue to serve. Thank you so much and you are certainly not forgotten.
Tracy Giron
November 27, 2010
I miss you
Christopher Coutu
August 30, 2010
You are very special to all of us. After 15 years of service I am now a LT in the Army National Guard. I posted your in memory of video on my site and it inspires me. I am proud to share our last name.
Thank you for being an American hero and defending our freedoms.
God bless your family.
Christopher Coutu
Lindsey Dos Santos
August 19, 2010
http://www.runforthefallenmaine.org/index.shtml
Tom Rowe
July 31, 2010
Dear Matt – Time has past but not diminished the sense of profound loss your passing has created in the lives of those you knew and loved. I share our nation’s deep respect for your service and sacrifice. You and your family have paid the highest price for our freedom, and while acknowledging it is right and proper, that acknowledgment does little more than restate a truth.
I’m a friend and former colleague of your father’s. His friendship has meant a great deal to me over the years even though we have been long separated by time and distance. He told me about your pending deployment with appropriate amounts of pride and concern. I made him a promise to keep you in my thoughts and prayers during that conversation, and have remained true to my word.
Like your Dad I’m not sure of what exists beyond this life, but if there is fairness in this universe, you are at peace in the warm embrace of the thoughts, prayers, and eternal love due a hero.
With deepest respect,
Tom Rowe
Tony Justi
June 27, 2010
I was working on a calendar of "anniversaries" for the soldiers of Warriors Walk and noticed your name on today's date. You will not be forgotten.
Sandra Lindsay
June 27, 2010
Dear Matt,
Today is the five year mark,a very sad day
Miss you very much
Love,
Auntie S and UB
michael coutu
June 27, 2010
Dear Matt,
Today marks the fifth anniversary of the day you were taken from us. In one sense, time has marched rapidly forward; yet the memory of that day and the days that followed remain vivid and crisp. You would have completed your military service in 2008 and gone forward in your life perhaps with the FBI or Secret Service, both goals you aspired to pursue. Of course, we will never know what choices you would have made nor have the joy of seeing you take your rightful place in life, a new career, finding that special person, starting a family, a home – the ordinary progression of life which we take for granted and which you have been denied.
We visited with you at the gravesite. Perhaps you felt our presence, heard a prayer or listened to the stories we told of you. We can only guess at what life is after death. I do pray, however, that you are at peace with the awareness of how much you are missed and loved by those you left behind.
Whenever your name comes up in conversation with others, people always say thanks for your service and for the ultimate sacrifice you made for us, our country, the free world. Unlike my experience during the Vietnam era, people today are sincere and appreciative of the military and the men and women who serve and have served our country and in particular for those who lost their life in the name of freedom and for a cause our nation undertook.
As a parent, such words are, of course, very much appreciated but it doesn’t assuage the loss of a son. All of the tributes and honors bestowed upon you does not fill the void of the loss of you. Any parent of one so loved, would trade such accolades if miraculously we could have you back and share in your life. Now we are left with the memories of your short life and only thoughts of what your life might have been.
We commemorate your passing on this anniversary of that sad day but know that on each and every day you are remembered, loved and missed.
Love,
Dad
Mike OHara
June 27, 2010
Today marks five years taken from us that we all could have had laughing and making jokes with you...We all miss you.
Peggy Childers
June 27, 2010
To the family and friends of 2nd Lt. Matthew S. Coutu:
Remembering Matthew on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Kory Thompson
June 25, 2010
To the Family, I was Proud and Honored on June 20 of this year to read the name Matthew S. Coutu at the Illinois Freedom Run and Mideast Conflicts Wall Memorial in Marseilles, Illinois. I send the Family and Friends of Matthew my deepest heartfelt condolences on the loss of such a fine young Man, Soldier and Warrior. Being a Gold Star Father myself, I know and feel your pain and heartache and send each of you a hug from the deepest part of my heart. Rest assured this young Hero, like them all will never be forgotten.
June 1, 2010
Dear Matt,
Another Memorial Day has passed. It is very hard to believe that in a few short weeks, it will be the 5th anniversary of your passing. We remember and honor you this day and all who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.
For those who have lost a family member, Memorial Day is particularly difficult for evokes memories of a loved one if life, missed in death. However grand the ceremonies maybe, it does not ever soothe the soul of such a great loss.
We cherish the memories of you but regret that no new memories can be made. We celebrate the your brief life but pain to not have shared with you special moments of life continued. We prepared you for life but you were taken so young, cut down when sniper's aim found its tragic mark.
We remember you everyday but give tribute this day for the courage you and other fallen heroes had to serve our country. We are home of the free because of the brave...
love,
Dad
Pamela
May 31, 2010
I never had the pleasure of knowing this fine young man who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country. I see Masses offered for him frequently at Sts. John & James Church in West Warwick. Today being Memorial Day, and my husband being a Marine, we passed Matthew's final resting place at the RI Veterans' Cemetary today, as we paid tribute to three other fallen heroes who's final resting place is near Matt's. We said a silent prayer for him, and I could feel my eyes well up with tears as my husband saluted at his grave. Matt, may you be resting in eternal peace. Forever in our hearts and always in our prayers,
2LT Blake Bugaj
March 18, 2010
It was not your time.
Amy Lea
November 11, 2009
Hey Coutu, I was cleaning up the basement and I came across my old rollerblades (the ones you accidentally covered in red sauce). I remember scrubbing them to get the stains out right after the spill, but it was no use. I figured they would always have that bright stain. So... the other day when I picked them up, I discovered the weirdest thing. They were perfectly clean. They almost looked brand new. Well... no stain, but thinking of you nonetheless.
michael coutu
November 7, 2009
Dear Matt,
Yesterday marked your 28th birthday. The day passed quietly but in reflection of you, a day not shared together.
For Halloween, Andrew wanted to dress as a soldier and wore one of your fatigue uniforms along with your boots - - a shorter and smaller version of you! He remembers you well. Indeed there is a packaged soup he really likes (Maruchan Ramen Chicken Noodle) that you were fond of as well. Even to day, we refer to as "Matt Soup."
You are greatly missed by many and are remembered each and every day. You will be forever loved for the person you were. For me, I will be forever proud of you as my son.
Love,
Dad
Mike OHara
November 6, 2009
Happy Birthday Matt,
It still seems like yesterday when I got the phone call that you had been taken from us. Obviously the pain still remains. I still remember the birthdays in Illinois we all celebrated. I miss you buddy.
In friendship,
Mike OHara
Lindsey Dos Santos
November 6, 2009
Happy Birthday, Matt.
We sure do miss you. Stories of you still come up very frequently.
I find out today if Eric and I are expecting a boy or a girl. If it is a boy his name is going to be Tyler Scott. Both of our boys are going to share a part of your name. A name that Eric and I carry in our hearts all the time.
I hope that you are resting peacefully.
I love you, Matt. Have since I met you and will as long as I live.
Jared
July 2, 2009
4 years already. Thought about you a lot over the last couple of days with the anniversary and all. Hard to believe it has been that long already and I still remember the moment I found out you were gone like it was yesterday.
Heading south to visit family in two/three weeks and, as usual, will swing in to RI to see you.
Peggy Childers
June 30, 2009
To the family of 2nd Lt. Matthew S. Coutu:
Matthew gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Michael Coutu
June 28, 2009
June 27, 2009
Dear Matt,
Today Joanne, Derek, Beth, your mom and I gathered at your final resting place to observe the 4th anniversary of day you were taken from us. It is hard to believe that four years has passed. Time marches forward, unaffected by events of life. Neither friend nor foe, it merely marks the time that has passed between what was a once a young life with countless opportunities and what will never be.
There will always be the sadness of the loss of you. Perhaps less the white hot searing pain that followed in the days and months of that day but nonetheless a deep and continuing sense of a great loss that any parent suffers when it is their child.
No one knows what lies on the other side of life but with faith in God, we do hope that there you are at peace and hope that at the end of our life's journey we will again be together.
We miss you much and love you more,
dad
sandra lindsay
June 28, 2009
Dear Matt,
Four years has gone by,and it seems like yesterday.
Love and miss you
Auntie Sandra & UB
Kenna Larra
June 17, 2009
”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,550 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna
Lindsey Dos Santos
May 25, 2009
Missing you today as I do everyday. Please watch over Eric and keep him safe. Heading to the Memorial Day services shortly, you will be in my heart and thoughts today. Rest peacefully, Matt.
Bryan Purcell
May 24, 2009
miss your sense of humor. none who served with him will forget him
sandra lindsay
December 26, 2008
Dear Matt,
Another Christmas goes by,and we feel the emptiness,as we sat and talked of the past holidays, we remebered the ones we had all spent together,we knew you were listening.One of your pictures kept falling over,your Mom said that's Matt he wants us to know he's here in spirit.We would fix it and it a little while it would fall again.
Love and miss you very much
Auntie Sandra
mike coutu
December 25, 2008
My dear Matt,
This day marks the 4th Christmas since you were taken from us. Along with Derek's and Andrew's, your stocking hangs each year from the fireplace mantle. You may not be with us but the memory of you remains as a vigilant reminder of a son much loved and greatly missed.
It isn't just on the holidays that we think of you but on each and every day. The Maruchan chicken noodle soup is still called "Matt's Soup" something that Andrew and I have taken quite a liking to!
We always refer to your Ford Explorer as "Matt's Car." It is, and will likely always be, something we will keep. It is such a strong reminder of you. The very last time we saw each other was when we visited with you at Ft. Hood just before you left for Iraq.
You came by the hotel that last morning to say our goodbyes to each other not knowing it would be the last time we would see you in life. As you drove away and we waved to each other, I reflected on whether this would be our final goodbye.
Perhaps it was premonition of what was to come or maybe it was simply the reality of war but I did feel in my heart that this would be our final moment together.
Whenever I sit in your car, in the seat you sat in and hold the steering wheel that you once held, the presence of you is so very strong. I sometimes just sit there quietly and think of you, your brief life, what could have been and what will never be.
Pictures of you hang on the refrigerator. Each time I open it, I see your smiling face and sometimes feel like you are still with us. But sometimes I feel the pain in my heart of the reality that you are gone, a life ended in a far away land not in peace but in the violence of war.
I sometimes wish that I could have protected you; to somehow have shielded you at the very moment that the sniper's round found its mark, the very second that forever altered your passage from full life to eternal death.
Every loving parent wants to protect their child from harm but in this I was powerless. But still I wish. I wish that my son was alive and happy and with us on holidays, that he married and had children, that he took his rightful place in society and life. But most of all, I wish I could just give him a big hug and tell him I love him.
Love can still be expressed for death does not change what the heart feels but I will never again hear what is in your heart.
On this Christmas, I bear no gifts but to say I love you greatly and hope that what I feel in my heart carries across the stars to whatever place that now keeps the son I miss so very much.
May this Christmas find you in eternal peace. You will always be in my heart.
love,
Dad
Bob Coutu
December 2, 2008
Lord,
help me forever remember and never forget; not for the horror, pain or suffering of war; but for the sacrifice, bravery, and brotherhood of the fallen, those who fought, and those who still do. -B. Coutu (SPC) US Army/2ID/2BCT
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