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Mathew LaForest Obituary
Mathew was born on Feb. 7, 1986, at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines to parents Mark LaForest and Deborah Turner. Mathew graduated from Bowie High School in Austin in 2004. He was involved in the Bowie Band, JROTC and played soccer with the Austin United Soccer Club. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and was serving in Iraq with the 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry, 4th Stryker BCT, 2nd ID.
Mathew was a quiet natured, easy-going person, who was loved by many. He was quick to give you a smile and was always willing to help anyone who needed it. He loved to race his car and hang out with his friends. He was a wonderful son, brother and friend and will be dearly missed by everyone who knows him.
He was preceded in death by grandparents Melvin and Jacqueline LaForest.
He is survived by his father, Mark LaForest and wife Suzette of Austin, Texas; mother, Deborah Baughn and husband Dana of West Chazy, N.Y.; sister, Jessica LaForest of West Chazy, N.Y.; brothers, Devon Mitchell of Austin, Texas, Brandon Baughn of West Chazy, N.Y.; grandparent, Judy LaForest of Plattsburgh, N.Y., Donald and Sandra Turner of Mooers Forks, N.Y.; uncles, Bill LaForest of Plattsburgh, N.Y., Mike Laforest of Plattsburgh, N.Y.; and aunts, Lonnee Rorison and husband Steve of Pittsfield, Vt., Tammy Lacy and husband Mike of Plattsburgh, N.Y. He is also survived by many cousins; other relatives; and friends.
Visitation will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Monday at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home, 6300 W. William Cannon, in Austin. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday at Cook/Walden-Forest Oaks Funeral Home in Austin. Committal services and interment will follow with full military honors at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Cemetery in Pflugerville.
Memorials may be made to CPL Mathew LaForest Memorial Fund in care of any Wells Fargo Bank.
Please join us in celebrating Mathew's life by visiting our memorial at www.mem.com where we invite you to share your thoughts and fond memories with our family.
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Xavier young
May 25, 2025
I miss you Matty. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you brother. Till Valhalla
M. M. Turvold-Johnson
April 26, 2025
Mathew, I know you are still fighting the good fight alongside me apart of heavens army on this earth journey of mine we've come to know as life. You keep me strong and have me looking indestructible in the online tarot world and their patience is wearing thin. Thanks for encouraging me to keep going... my gifts and blessings you look after.. my failures don't seem so bad looking at it that way. It still hurts tho. I pray theres a new life for me someday.. its got to get better than this... either way I got ur 6. <3 always ~M&M
Debbie Acosta
October 27, 2022
Dear La Forest Family... My nephew served under your son/brother/uncle/loved one for a long time in Iraq. Since he returned from his second tour of duty in 2009?, we have both worn commemorative bracelets with MATHEW P. LA FOREST TX ARMY IRAQI FREEDOM 25TH MAY 07 KIA on our wrists every day. I think about your loved one every day and honor him in my daily life by wearing his name. I would love to get in touch with his family or friends and know more about him. My name is Debbie Acosta, I am from Capitola California. I can be reached anytime at 408 505-4252 or [email protected] Please - if appropriate, contact me at your convenience. I thank you for your time and forever for your Mathew's service. With much love, Debbie
Charlie Gili
December 1, 2020
Hello,
We apologize for being so late in expressing our deepest condolences to you and your family. We want you to know that we will be sending Care Packages to deployed troops this holiday season and several of these will be dedicated to your loved one. Each package will carry the name, photo, service branch, rank and hometown of Mathew LaForest US Army Corporal.
We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community, their families, friends and others who support our mission.
We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you safe and strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of our US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign
How you can show support
Xavier Young
March 27, 2018
I think of you often brother.
M Anwarzai
May 25, 2017
Mathew, its been 10 years since you've been gone. Not a day goes by that I wish you were still here bud. It's hard to think what it would be like today with you here and it's very hard. You'll always be missed and always thought of brother. Me and your brother miss you very much.
RIP little brother.
RIP LaForest Mathew
C
February 1, 2017
Hey Matt. I took your Gameboy Advance. You flipped out and I thought it was funny. It was just another one of those things that we both did to each other to annoy the other.
Maybe the GBA was a step too far. I don't know where it is anymore, but I wish I still had it because it was yours.
We have lived our lives, gotten married, had our hearts broken, had children and created memories...and you have remained forever 21. I wish you could have been a part of it.
I think about you more often than I'd like to admit.
I miss you.
Mamoon A.
May 26, 2016
Its been 9 year little brother and everyday we all think of you Matt. We all miss yoy little brother. R.I.P. Brother Mathew Laforest
Mamoon Anwarzai
November 27, 2015
Happy thanksgiving little brother. Your brothers and I will always think of you everyday little brother. Take care little brother from Cobb, Sadiek, Haynes and I.... R.I.P. Little Brother. R.I.P.
Mamoon Anwarzai
November 15, 2015
Our little brother Mathew. I miss and think of you everyday little brother. Cobb, Sadiek, Haynes, Lilly, and I always hanging out at Cobbs place, kicking back a few, goofing around smack talking on one another for fun. Those were the days little brother. We all miss you and talk about you always little brother. Noone is replaceable in our group but all we can do is talk about the old times we had and the things we all did. I miss you alot little brother. A great friend and family. R.I.P. little Brother. R.I.P.
September 15, 2014
Matty it's Bear....just checking in man. Still think of you every time I see one of those damn ugly red eclipses
Derrick Lopez
May 24, 2013
Mathew was a good man. I met him when I first got to Fort Lewis, WA when they were building our unit up from scratch. I was in a different company than him but I always talked with him when I pulled 24 hour duty in the barracks before we went to Iraq. When I heard about him passing from the other soldiers I knew in Charlie Company I felt instant sadness. We had many conversations in the months leading up to our deployment and I grew to respect him a great deal. You served proud Mathew. The week you passed was a tough week for 4-9 Imfantry but you will always be remembered. I miss you man.
Peggy Childers
May 30, 2012
May 25, 2012
To the family and friends of Cpl. Mathew P. LaForest:
Always remembering Mathew. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
May 25, 2011
To the family and friends of Cpl. Mathew P. LaForest:
Please accept my remembrance of Mathew on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
May 25, 2010
To the family and friends of Cpl. Mathew P. LaForest:
Remembering Mathew 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
December 31, 2009
Thank you Matthew for your willingness to fight for our country. Not a day goes by that you and all of our soldiers are in our thoughts and prayers. I know the pain is unbearable for your family but the memories of your Hero will carry you through each day. Remember he now is not only a Hero for his country , but an ANGEL watching out for is beloved family
Uncle Dick, Aunt Barb
Nicole
October 11, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I too knew Mathew. For almost a year, he was always at our house or all of us at a mutual friends house. He was a great soldier, but most importantly he was a great friend. He will be greatly missed. Now that I, myself, am in the service, I hope and pray that he watches over me as I know he does everyone here. He is never gone, as long as his memory is alive...he will always be with us. RIP CPL Mathew P. LaForest. Thank you for all you have done.
Peggy Childers
May 25, 2009
To the family of Cpl. Mathew P. Laforest:
Mathew 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
Kenna Larra
January 22, 2009
We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families. War does not discriminate – It breaks my heart to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,300 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,
Kenna
Jacqueline Cotrell
August 27, 2008
There is going to be an exhibit held in Austin honoring the soldiers from Texas who have died in Iraq. The Eyes Wide Open exhibit is sponsored by the American Friends Society and was begun in 2004. The Austin exhibit is to be held Sept 12,13,14 at Auditorium Shores. You can go to www.eyeswideopeninaustin2008.org for more information.
Megan Turvold
August 27, 2008
ALL of MY HEART and prayers go out to all who have lost Mathew. He will be dearly missed especially by myself. His bright beautiful smile could push away all of the clouds. His laughter I cherish. His eyes always had a glow... I love and miss you like crazy Mathew.
June 27, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Cpl LaForest!
In Memory of Mathew ~ (Debra Estep)
May 25, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know Mathew, but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
Visit this link to hear the song.
The Other Side –
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Please contact me and I will email you back a copy of my
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
epifanio moreno
February 29, 2008
LaForest it was an honor to have known you. Laforest you were a good man and soldier. You will be missed by me and everyone who knew you . I wish I could have gone into combat with you all: Cobb, Bearor, Foo ,Rolle, Hodgin, Leu and everyone else . All of you are on my mind always and I will always check up on ya'll. LaForest I will miss you. We have lost you but you will never be forgotten.
Your Friend,
SSG Moreno
Mark LaForest
February 21, 2008
Unselfishly, you left your fathers and your mothers, You left behind your sisters and your brothers.
Leaving your beloved children and wives, You put on hold, your dreams—your lives.
On foreign soil, you found yourself planted To fight for those whose freedom you granted.
Without your sacrifice, their cause would be lost But you carried onward, no matter the cost.
Many horrors you had endured and seen. Many faces had haunted your dreams.
You cheered as your enemies littered the ground; You cried as your brothers fell all around.
When it was over, you all came back home, Some were left with memories to face all alone;
Some found themselves in the company of friends As their crosses cast shadows across the land.
Those who survived were forever scarred Emotionally, physically, permanently marred.
Those who did not now sleep eternally ‘Neath the ground they had given their lives to keep free.
With a hand upon my heart, I feel The pride and respect; my reverence is revealed
In the tears that now stream down my upturned face As our flag waves above you, in her glory and grace.
Freedom was the gift that you unselfishly gave Pain and death was the price that you ultimately paid.
Chase Webb
November 8, 2007
Hi I am doing a project for my class and i saw your picture and became interested in your place in the army.
August 22, 2007
There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.
Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.
I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON, a dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.
REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
Bear
August 18, 2007
Hey little brother. We miss you everyday and we know you're still here watching our 6.
I still wear the flag you gave me and I'll never not have it on my right shoulder. Valerie and a friend wrote a song for you.
If i get out of this, im getting the longhorn tatooed on my right shoulder.
I love you little bro
August 16, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Cpl LaForest and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
Nicole LaForest
July 5, 2007
I want to thank everyone who showed up to the memorial service at the plattsbrugh oval june 30th it was alot better than what most expected
Joshua Perkins
July 1, 2007
I cant believe hes gone. Matt and I were really good friends in high school. we were in the same ROTC class and hung out in our Delta class doing our work (mostly playing pinball and what not). I had not none that he had passed but will miss him much. I remember his suprise birthday party that we threw for him. I'll never forget his friendship and his memories will live on threw each of us. Mathew was an honorable man and thats how i will always remember him.
Tammy Lacey
June 30, 2007
Below is a poem written by Mathew's mother Deborah Baughn for his memorials in Washington on June 5 and in Plattsburgh, New York on June 30 2007:
Unselfishly, you left your father and mother; you left behind your sister and brother. Leaving your beloved family, you put on hold, your dreams and your life.
On foreign soil, you found yourself planted to fight for those whose freedom you granted, without your sacrifice, their cause would be lost but you carried onward, no matter the cost.
With hand upon my heart, I feel the pride and respect; my reverence is revealed, my tears that now stream down my face, as our flag waves above you, in her glory and grace. Freedom was the gift that you unselfishly gave; death was the price you paid. Everyday you will be honored, loved and cherished; my son, our nations soldier with love your mother.
Mike Kelly
June 30, 2007
My heart goes out to Mathew and family. He looks like he was a fine young man who was taken away from us far too soon. I pray for his family to be shed of their grief.
ROBYN GARSIDE
June 28, 2007
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST SYMPATHIES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. GODSPEED AND SEMPER FI.
A PROUD MARINE MOM
shawnee (Austin, TX)
June 22, 2007
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there... I do not sleep.
I am the thousand winds that blow...
I am the diamond glints on snow...
I am the sunlight on ripened grain...
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you waken in the morning's hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of gentle birds in circling flight...
I am the soft star that shines at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry-
I am not there... I did not die...
..
June 21, 2007
“Soldier”
Written to Honor the Service of Our Fallen Soldiers
Soldiers write history…they pay the price
Many miles distant, you live the life
Entered the Battle of our own free will
Out of Duty for Country, and we’d do it still
We hope and pray that all will find peace
In God, in the flag, in memories of valor
Gone now, our pride and courage you see
“An Army of One” our motto forever
Willing to risk all for love of our Brothers
We’re still Your Soldiers…and we showed the way
Our Lives too short, now pray for the others
Lived free died Heroes in lands far away
Deep within souls all cherished our Service
We’ll always have what some never know
Courage and Honor, our names forever
Lived life with purpose…just our time to go
We march in the Heavens with Honor and Glory
Missions accomplished we fought the Good Fight
Many years from now…we’ll tell the full story
Until that Day we will live in the Light
Our lives we laid down in a land far away
Still watching o’er you this night and by day
No need to talk…just know we are with you
There in your hearts and we hear what you pray
Yes we are your soldiers
Our lives we laid down
Still We guard o’er you
Still Duty bound
Entered the Battle of our own free will
Out of Duty for Country, and we’d do it still
We’ll always have what some never know
Lived life with purpose…it was our time to go
Bert Eskridge
June 20, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Kevin Haynes
June 15, 2007
I was in the Army with Matt. Matt and I both arrived to Ft. Lewis at the same time. We were put in the same unit together. We became friends instantly, ever since then we were always together. As the unit grew, our group of friends grew. Matt's friendship is something to always cherrish.
Cynthia -Cindy- Vega
June 15, 2007
I am sadden to learn of the death of LaForest.I knew LaForest in high school in ROTC. He was always in high spirits.LaForest was always smiling.To Mathew's family, I am so sorry for your loss and my prayers are with you.LaForest will be missed and he will live on in our memories.
LaForest, you will be missed.
Liliana(Chica) Cobb
June 8, 2007
LaForest a part of you will always live in me deep inside my heart. Ill never forget your smile that was as warm as the sun. You were one of my best freinds and I know that i will see you again. I love you! To the Laforest family, my thoughts and prayers are with you.God bless you.
Amanda Jones
June 8, 2007
You are in my thoughts and prayers. I haven't known him for too long, but he was a dear friend. I love him as a brother and hope/pray that God will always take care of Matt. May his soul be watching over us.
Sarah Ervin
June 6, 2007
Many prayers went out yesterday from the memorial, and one was from me and my family wishing your family nothing but the best. You will be in our thoughts and prayers..
Shannon Smith
June 6, 2007
Our prayers are with your family as you grieve. I said a special prayer for you yesterday at the Memorial Service held here on Ft Lewis to honor him & his fellow fallen soldiers. You will always remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Csilla Lyerly
June 6, 2007
To the Family of Mathew LaForest,
I am very deeply saddened by your loss. I know how terrbile your loss feels... my husband, CPT Sean Lyerly (HHC 36 CAB)is your son's 'neighbor' ...
I will be praying for you during this difficult time. If you need anything, don't hesitate to contact me. ~Blessings~
Brenda Gutierrez
June 5, 2007
It saddened me to know that we lost yet another soldier from this area to the war in Iraq. My heart goes out to the friends and family of Spc.Mathew P. LaForest in this time of great loss and sadness. I too lost a loved one in Iraq recently (Spc. Darrell Shipp 1-25-07). Thank you for your dedication to our freedom and to the ultimate sacrifice you gave to insure freedom for all. You may be gone but you will never be forgotten. You will always be a Hero. God Bless your family and friends. My prayers go out to you all.
Pamela Brochstein
June 5, 2007
Thanks for all you gave for your contry.
Kristen Norwood Hullum
June 5, 2007
I am so saddened to have to bring another family into this "Gold Star" club. Our family lost my brother, Sgt Byron Norwood USMC, on November 13, 2004. While everyday has been filled with grief and loss, it has also been filled with pride and honor knowing that Byron died in service to our great nation. I pray that your family may feel the comfort in also knowing that Mathew is an American hero, and he gave his life for something far greater than his own. I am proud to know that he is to be buried today just a few short yards from my own brother, as well as two other Fallen Heroes, Capt Sean Lyerly and SPC Yari Mokri. I will visit Mathew every time I visit my own brother.
To the siblings - if you need to talk to someone who understands, please feel free to email or call me. I am in touch with a huge number of other Gold Star Siblings who will love and comfort you.
Kristen Norwood Hullum
Proud Sister of USMC Fallen Hero
Sgt Byron Norwood
KIA 11-13-04
Fallujah, Iraq
Nicole Laforest
June 5, 2007
we will all miss you. you were a special person and you will never be forgotten. i love you
Pat Perales
June 5, 2007
I am very saddened to hear that your son is gone. My son is in Iraq now, so my heart is with you. Will be praying for your family that God will help get you through this difficult time and for all our brave soldiers who are still far from home.
Kimberlea Henderson
June 4, 2007
My prayers go out daily for Matthew's family. I am so sorry for your loss. My husband Spc.Henderson was there with him in Taji. My husband was friends with Matthew and misses him tremendously. I would like to thank you for all your son has done for my husband and the rest of us. He is a TRUE HERO. GodBless.
Lance Lee
June 4, 2007
You're forever in our thoughts and although I want to tell you how much it means to me that you died protecting us, I will get to tell you soon! You are our strength!
Tom Boone
June 4, 2007
Mathew sounds like he was a great person. Trumpet player, snowboarder and soccer aficionado.
I'm very sorry to hear of your loss and my prayers are with you and your family.
Lloyd Navarro, USA
June 4, 2007
I send my deeply felt sympathies to the LaForest family. Having stomped much of the same ground in which your son patrolled, I can personally tell you that each moment of coalition presence in the area was a moment in which the Iraqi people experienced the freedoms which we all enjoy. This was PFC LaForest’s gift to humankind as a soldier who volunteered for the call to duty and as person trying to make things better for others. While each who serves and gives the last full measure diminishes us all, I am sure that all who knew Mathew LaForest cherish fond memories and his comradeship to honor him.
Valerie Williams
June 4, 2007
To the Laforest family,
My heart is so sad to know Mathew is gone. My son is still in Taji and just told me the news. My son, Chandler, and Mathew came to be very good friends and Mathew made such a big impression on us when we enjoyed his company here in Colorado last winter. I am still having trouble understanding he is gone. My heart is with you in mourning the loss of such a fine young man. He was a model warrior who gave all and will be missed forever.
peggy Ducharme
June 4, 2007
To The Laforest Family
Our hearts are saddend with yet another fallen hero .which will never be forgotten .God Bless your Family .And my the lord be with you
Tom Gugliuzza
June 4, 2007
My heartfelt sympathy to the LaForest family in the loss of Mathew. I did not know Mathew, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you. Mathew you are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom
"To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~
Chuck Murphy
June 3, 2007
Traci and I would like to offer our sincerest condolences to the LaForest family. There is no time in a parents life that it is easy to lose a child.
Aaron King
June 3, 2007
To the LaForest Family, while I never knew Matthew, I was very saddened to hear about Matthew's self sacrifice. I wish you all the best in this difficult time.
Ryan Boyd
June 3, 2007
Matt was a nice guy and a good friend. It is sad to see him go so soon.
Mileyva Ortiz
June 3, 2007
To my great friend and the brother I never had. I'll miss you.
Mary Balbirnie
June 1, 2007
Another hero fallen, thank you for your service, for keeping the wolves from the door Matthew, May God bless and keep you , may he ease your families pain, To the family thank you for such a wonderful person, so brave a true hero to me,,,my heart is heavy I just came from the wall Matthew has joined my father Jim who left us in a jungle far away in 1966,,God bless the heros...
Nelson Williamson
June 1, 2007
Laforest, you've always been the calmest guy I have ever known, even in the stickiest of situations. You can't imagine how at a loss I am to find out your gone man. I have so much I had to thank you for. I even think you contributed to me and my wife finally getting married. I remember when I got the X burnt onto my arm. You weren't there, but after I showed you, you got one the very next day...this X that I bare on my arm is for you buddy, but now I don't consider it an X...not since you died...I consider it a cross...and I'll gladly bare yours. God speed Mathew LaForest.
Eddie Johnson
June 1, 2007
May God be with you and your family forever.
MB
June 1, 2007
Thank you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Laura Lee MacDonald
June 1, 2007
Dear Mark and Family,
We are so sorry to hear about Mathew. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time of sorrow.
Sincerely,
Laura Lee and Alexandra MacDonald
(Formally from Fair Haven VT)
Mark LaForest
June 1, 2007
I'd like to thank everyone who has signed Mathew's Guest Book. Seeing everyone's wonderful comments is helping us get through these tough times. Mathew was a wonderful son. No father could be more proud. Thank you for your wonderful comments, and may God bless all of you.
Chris Cayea
June 1, 2007
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
The Blue Star Mothers & Dads Clinton County
June 1, 2007
To the family of Mathew Laforest: We offer our hearfelt sympathy for your loss of a beloved family member and a brave soldier. We are forever grateful to Mathew for serving his country with such honor. Please know that we are in the community to support you in any way you might need. God Bless You!
Sue and Bruce King
June 1, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. You will be missed by all. Thank you for your courage and bravery.
Chris
May 31, 2007
To the Matthew LaForest Family,
My family and I would like to express our deepest sympathy to all of you. We didn't have the honor of knowing your brave child but we will always be grateful for his service to our country. Your family will remain in our prayers for a long time. We are truly sorry for your loss. May the happier memories sustain you during this difficult time. I'm sure if the world could attend his service they would, unfortunately we cannot but we will all be with you in spirit.
Mike Laforest
May 31, 2007
to my nephew I can not put into words how proud of you I am. I will miss you.
Love
Uncle Mike
TSgt Jamie & Mrs. Ann Walker
May 31, 2007
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me. Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007
Deb,
Although we didn't personally know Matthew, we know that he is among the bravest members of our society as he chose to become a soldier in the greatest military in the world. Rest assured that he is in a better place now and his loss is felt not only by you and yours but by every person that wears a uniform. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God bless!
Jared Ackerman
May 31, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with the families of Mathew in this time of sorrow. May god help you through and remember all the good times you shared with Mathew.
Alan and Kathy Baughn
May 31, 2007
With thoughts of deepest sympathy for the Loss of your beloved son and our courageous hero Mathew.
Your son has changed our world in ways big and small and left it a better place.
We will never forget his ultimate sacrifice defending our freedom.
May God bless you and Mathew always and give you peace.
Linda Clifton
May 31, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Mary Walsh
May 31, 2007
Thank you for your service to our country and peace to your family and friends.
Cindy
May 31, 2007
Debbie & Family,
Our heartfelt sympathies to you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May your beautiful memories of the time you shared with Mathew bring you comfort and peace,as he will always be in our hearts.
May God's Love and Peace sustain you.
With love, your neighbor & friend
Cindy &family
Trudy Lowe
May 31, 2007
My heartfelt sympathies to your family. My heart breaks with each new name added to this list, and I am saddened by your loss. Know that you are surrounded by prayers, grace and the deep gratitude of all who live in freedom. My God hold you in his arms and grant you peace. Please find joy in the memories of your loved one and comfort knowing so many are holding you in their hearts.
Debbie Garcia
May 31, 2007
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Kelners
May 31, 2007
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Amy Tippie
May 31, 2007
To the family of Mathew - my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Mathew is and will forever be a hero. God Bless you. A proud mother, Spc. TJ Carrillo, KIA Baghdad, Iraq, 06-28-2005
Debbie Baughn
May 31, 2007
I want to thank everyone who has expressed such loving thoughts to our families. It fills my heart with love knowing that so many people care. This site will be my strengh when the times get difficult and lonely. We should never forget the men and women who are doing what they do best for our country when called upon.
Thank You,
Debbie Baughn
Don & Norma(Sample) Rabideau and Family
May 31, 2007
To All of Mathew's Family:
We send our heartfelt sympathy and prayers in the loss of your loved one.
Also, we give thanks for the ultimate sacrafice Mathew gave to help preserve FREEDOM for all ---
MAY HE REST IN PEACE...
Sincerely,
Carol Cline
May 30, 2007
Know in your heart that Mathew is a true hero and will never be forgotten. All gave some, some gave all. Rest in peace Mathew. You will be missed by everyone’s life you have touched.
To Mathew's family, as the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family, friends, and all Americans for the sacrifice of one of your family members for our freedom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort in the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father.
Leslie LeDuc
May 30, 2007
Dear Family & Friends of Mathew,
I'm am sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts & prayers. Be proud of Mathew and fill your heart with loving memories of him. He will be with you and watching over you.
Proud Marine Corps Wife
Shay Young
May 30, 2007
Loforest-I will miss you so much, i thought of you as one of my really good friends. You know we love you and words cant express how much we will miss you, and how much of a hero you really are to us. Rest In Peace dear friend, I will see you at the crossroads. Love always, Xavier and Shay Young
PHYLLIS YOUNG
May 30, 2007
TO THE FAMILY OF MATHEW , I KNEW AND WORKED WITH MEL HIS GRANDFATHER.SUCH A WONDERFUL,CARING MAN.I CAN SEE HOW MUCH MATHEW RESEMBLES MEL. MATHEW WENT FORTH FOR OUR FREEDOM.WHAT A BRAVE YOUNG MAN HE WAS.
Stephen Lim
May 30, 2007
Mark and Family,
My deepest condolences on the loss of your beloved son. Matthew gave the ultimate sacrifice for this country. You can be very proud of Matthew for being such a brave HERO. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
June
May 30, 2007
To the LaForest Family: I wish there were some way to give you comfort and peace on the loss of your beloved son, but only time and precious memories will help you. I lost my Marine brother in Viet Nam in 1967 and memories keep my family going. Your son paid the ultimate price for our freedom and for that I thank him and all of our other brave soldiers from the bottom of my heart.
A proud Navy Mom
June
Sally Walker
May 30, 2007
Debbie, Jess & Brandon. You are all in my thoughts & prayers at this sad time. Remember all the great times together with Matt, he will always be with you. You can be very proud of him.
Allen & Jeannie Langevin
May 30, 2007
Debbie & Family,
We are deepely saddened by your loss. Mathew was doing a great service to our country and will be remembered as a hero. Although we never met him, he sounds like a wonderful young man that would have been a pleasure and honor to know. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Phyllis Duprey/Kirby
May 30, 2007
To the family of Mathew Laforest.. I grew up in the Peru area but live in East Texas now. My prayers will be with you during this traumatic time. May God Bless you all!!!!
Marcie and Jason Goltz
May 30, 2007
Mark and family,
Our sincere condolences for your terrible loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Ronn Massie
May 30, 2007
God bless the family and friends of Matthew.
You will all be in our prayers.
Thank you Matthew for being such a brave hero.
(In remembrance of Cpl. Joey Cantrell 4-4-07)
John Welch
May 30, 2007
The LaForest Family:
I didn't know Matt, but was friends with his Grandfather Mel and worked with Uncle Ansel....So sorry for the family's loss of a "Great Patriot"
Stephanie & Jaime Medina
May 30, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family in this time of need.
Heather Clark
May 30, 2007
I'm so sorry for your loss. I met Matt through a mutual friend last Christmas. He was a very sweet and funny young man. I know this loss will be felt by many.
Melinda
May 30, 2007
I am truly sorry and saddened by the death of such a young man. His service to his country is greatly appreciated and will be remembered.
He paid the ultimate price to ensure freedom and for that I thank him and all the soldiers serving everywhere.
I pray that God will give this young man's family and friends strength in their time of need.
God has a very special place in heaven for this fine young man and I, and every other American that owes him a debt of gratitude, have a place in our hearts for Matthew and every other soldier that has fallen.
May God bless you all.
Kimberly williams
May 30, 2007
To the Family of Mathew Laforest,
Our prayes are with you all at this most heart breaking time, Mathew will not be forgotten, he is a Hero to all.
From a proud Army mom of a depolyed soldier to Iraq.
Kim Williams, Peru, N.Y.
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