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Matthew Rich Obituary
Age 22, of Horseheads, formerly of Ithaca, died unexpectedly Sunday, October 19, 2008. Born in Ithaca, he was a graduate of Ithaca High School (Class of 2004) where he was a member of the wrestling and football teams. Following graduation from IHS, he enlisted in the US Marine Corps, graduating from Parris Island. Prior to his honorable discharge in 2008 at the rank of Corporal, he completed a 13 month tour in Iraq. He was totally devoted to the Marine Corps and at the time of his death he was considering re-enlisting. He enjoyed deer hunting and just hanging out, playing his guitar but most of all he thoroughly loved fishing. Matthew is survived by his father, Max (Carol) Rich of Horseheads; mother, Cynthia Rich of New Jersey; brothers, Derek Rich of Ithaca, John Cady of Horseheads; sister, Farron Rich of Ithaca; paternal grandparents, Albert and Janice Rich of Ithaca; maternal grandfather, Eugene Ryder of Williamsport, PA; maternal grandmother, Connie (David) Wetzel of Montgomery, PA; several loving aunts, uncles and cousins and many Marine Corps buddies, which are considered family. Matthew was predeceased by his great-grandparents, Albert "Jack" and Gladys Rich. Funeral services will be held at 6:00 p.m., Thursday, October 23, at the E.C. Wagner Funeral Home of Ithaca, Rev. Michael Grinnals officiating. Military Honors will be afforded by the United States Marines Corps Honor Guard at the funeral home. Friends may call from 4 - 6 prior to the service.
www.ecwagnerfuneralhome.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Rich
max rich
October 19, 2009
to my son it has been a year now and i still think of you every single day.we go through our everyday lives now without your big smile. i will never never forget you and the great times of your life we had. the trips to pa when you were a kid to the friday night football games when you were a senior, all great memories. the day you graduated from boot camp and getting your first salute as a marine.i,ll never forget the big smile and fishing so many memories such a short time.we will love and miss you forever and i mean forever matt love you and miss you dad
Patrick Thomas
May 19, 2009
I was deeply hurt to hear about Matt. Matt and I were room mates on New River for about 2 years and also while we were in Iraq. Matt was always there for me. Matt was one of the most motivated Marines i have ever met. All it took was 30 seconds the first time we met and we were instantly friends. Matt and his family will always be in my prayers.
Maya McMahon
February 5, 2009
I didn't get the chance to know Matthew as a young man. My memories of him are as a young boy who loved life. His energy and humor are what stick out most in my mind. He was a most loyal companion, who loved with all of his heart.
My prayers go out to his family. I am so sorry. We lost a hero, a friend, a son, a brother. Rest in peace Matt.
Jarred Barnes
December 15, 2008
Its a shame to loose a good childhood friend like matt. I always figured we would catch up when our paths re-converged and never really thought of any other possibility. He was a role model, and depending on the particular antic we were getting ourselves into, for better or worse. But not replaceable. I'll remember him and look forward to catching up, in the long distant future.
Cody Kulago
November 21, 2008
Hey i didnt know Matt but i have heard people talk about him and they said that he was a good man. I am sorry for your loss and god bless..
Connie & Dave Wetzel
November 21, 2008
Matthew....
This truly comes from our hearts. We were there when you were born. Everything from that point on until you were about 11 years old, we were apart of. What a joy to watch you on video thru holidays, birthdays and everything in between. To see your antics, your enchanting smile and those absolutely compelling brown eyes that could melt your heart when you looked at us. And then, through no fault of your own Matthew, we lost it all...11 years of you growing into the fine young man you became...and we agonize over that. The stories we've heard and read of how many lives you touched in your very brief time here on earth is remarkable. And just when you were trying to get the family back together again, God called you home, and we'll never know the why of it. You were, and always will be very much loved Matthew, To say we're going to miss you so much just doesnt touch on the huge void thats felt in our hearts right now. R.I.P. Matthew...till we see you again in heaven.
Your Grandparents,
Grandma & Grandpa Wetzel
P.S. You're still in the "Christmas Train" wearing your Marine Uniform you were so proud of, (you look so handsome!).
NJ & PA Friends
November 20, 2008
Matthew on leave from Iraq
Cyndi Rich
November 20, 2008
My Matthew,
I was truly blessed to be given a son as wonderful as you.
A man, who succeeded in every challenge, it's true.
A great-hearted friend, he was known by so many.
A loving son who believed in his family.
A dedicated marine who service his red, white and blue.
A honor he took pride in for me and for you.
A star has be registered with your name.
In honor of you, in the "Stars of Fame."
So many memories, and that handsome smiling face.
Rest in peace my son, your in a much better place.
I love you and miss so very much. You'll always be in my heart. Mama
Linda Howell
November 19, 2008
Dear Cyndi, Farron & Derek,
Words can not express my heartfelt sorrow for your loss. Matt was a kind, sweet boy who grew up to be a fine young man. Cyndi, my dear friend, I am here for you if you need me. My love and prayers to you all.
Linda
Joanne Oeler
November 18, 2008
Cindy, and Gene,
I only knew Matt a short time,but loved him like a son instantly.He was so sweet,and sincere about everything he did. I will never forget the time he came into my restaurant in his dress uniform, he looked so handsome,and I guess he wore it for me.My love and respect for you,Cindy, and Gene for raising such a wonderful boy.He will be sadly missed,but never forgotten.My sincerest condolances to the family. Your friend allways, Joanne
(Aunt) Norma Bower
November 18, 2008
Cindy, Derek, Farron,
My heart is filled with sadness, it's so hard to realize that Matt is no longer with us. I feel your sorrow and the pain of such a loss, but I know that Matt is in a wonderful place. You are all in my prayers.
Kyle Ryder
November 18, 2008
Matthew was a great man, and Marine, extremely dedicated to his family and his country. I was personally honored each and every time he called me from overseas to talk about the family, his future and the plans he had. To all of the family, friends and those who were just fortunate enough to have met him, celebrate his life as I know it is what he would want us to do. Matthew will be sorely missed, remembered and honored many times each year as a Son, Brother, Nephew, Grandson and Veteran. I am proud of his service and thankful for his life. "Fair Winds and Following Seas", we will meet again. Uncle Kyle
Kathy Troy
November 18, 2008
Cyndi & Farron;
Please take some comfort in knowing that while Matt loved, comforted and protected while on earth, he is loving more, comforting more and protecting more in Heaven as he will be with us all.
Be proud Cyndi of such a wonderful young man, first and foremost, always remember the good times. The bad times are in the past but the good times are ours forever.
Please know and remember that I am here for you always and forever.
May your life be filled with "pennies". I love ya!
Bill Gentz
November 18, 2008
Cyndi, I am so sorry to hear of your loss! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!
Meri Barnes
November 18, 2008
Cyndi & Farron ~
I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that you are always in our thoughts and prayers. We had some good times with all of you when we visited Ithaca.
Take Care,
Tom (Flea), Meri & the boys
(Logan, Haden & Gavin) Barnes
Barbara and Zakaiah Kasian
November 4, 2008
All,
I went to high school with Matt...he was one of the nicest people there- someone I would never forget! He was always everyones friend and always offered his ears if you were having a bad day. I just saw him at the mall over the summer- when he said hello I could barely recognize him since he had changed so much since high school! I absolutly cannot believe he is gone...he was a wonderful person and will always be missed. My condolences to all family and friends...
Darrell Barrett
November 3, 2008
To the Rich Family
Max, Cyndi, Farron, Derek,
I was deeply saddened by the news of Matthew's passing. I have many fond memories of growing up next door and how our families became closer than just neighbors. Matt grew up to be an outstanding young man. I got to hear many of his marine stories when he was in town to visit, or stopping by empire vision. My prayers are with all of you during this time. I love you guys.
Joe Ambrose
November 2, 2008
My dear sister, I can not begin to say what feelings of sympathy I have for you, Farrin, Dad and other family members and friends that were considered Matts loved ones. I feel very privledged to have spent that afternoon with him and you and Farrin. I was not only impressed with the quality of the beauitful children you have raised but also in person you have become. I am proud to have you as my sister and regret the miles that separate us especially in times like this. I LOVE YOU and pray for the comfort to enter your heart, the comfort only the Lord can provide. I close with sincere family felt sympathy, your brother Joe.
jim longwell
November 1, 2008
max,i can not imagine how it must feel to loose a son. I have two myself and would be devastated by such a lose. Hang in there. My prayers and thoughts will be with you. If you need someone to talk to give a call, 8462816.
Hillary Barrett
October 31, 2008
Dear Rich family,
My depeast condolences are sent to you and your family as I just found out this Wed. concerning Matt. We will be praying for you and your family Max. May God bless you and give you the strength to get through this period of life.
George & Stacey
October 29, 2008
Our deepest condolences to Cyn, Dennis, Matt and the entire Rich family. Although we just met Matthew upon his return from Iraq, our family immediately grew as Matthew became a part of our family. We talked and laughed and shared many philosophical points of view in my garage over Corona and Limon. It amazed me how much love Matt possessed for his family his country, friends and of course the Marine Corp at this early age. Many of us don't find that capacity at any age. Matthew, I think you know how proud of you we are to have had the courage to step up and make a difference for people you've never met. We will NEVER forget the grave sacrifices you 've made for us and this country. You are sorely missed and your light will continue to shine in our hearts and mind.
Janet Oliveras
October 28, 2008
Matt was a very good friend of mine, I served with Matt in the Marine Corps and was discharged the same time as well. Matt was my to go to guy, he always gave me such good advice and always was so helpful to me. I'll never forget all the jokes and laughs that we had together. I have many photos of Matt that his family may want to see so if you'd like please contact me. I'm so sorry for your lost it was a very big one for me.
Jan Hegedus
October 26, 2008
Cyndi, although I never met Matt, I have only every heard wonderful things about him. Words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss. You can take comfort in the way Matt touched so many people in such a positive way.
GySgt Matthew Carmon (Senior Drill Instructor, PLT 2097)
October 26, 2008
I was deeply saddened to hear about Matt from My father. He was one of my better recruits and was always looking to improve himself and those around him. My prayers are with you and your family during this time.
LaRue Forbes
October 26, 2008
Max and Family
It is sad to lose those who are so dear to us . . . but there is comfort in remembering their thoughtfullness, the times they made us laugh, all of their positive energy in all of their endeavors. Memoeies such as these will never fade with time, but will grow stronger through the years.
With Deepest Sympathy,
LaRue Forbes
Lisa Bontempi
October 26, 2008
Dear Rich family,
I am so saddened to hear about Matthew. I recall him from his years at South Hill Elementary while I was teaching there. He had such a great spirit!
Max, I just spoke to your mom about 3 weeks ago. Our childhood years on South Hill together, with our family and friends will always be special! I will keep your entire family in my thoughts and prayers
Mary Matosich
October 25, 2008
Max and family-
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Ellen (Brotzman) Tyler
October 25, 2008
Cyndi, Farron, Derek, and the Family of Matt,
Please know that I am thinking about you. The loss of Matt must be more than you can bear. Cyndi, I know that you love your children with all your heart, and my prayers are with you.
With heartfelt sympathy,
mary stein
October 25, 2008
To the family:
All the Steins remember that sweet boy. Our sympathies to one and all.
Laurie Ribble
October 25, 2008
I am deeply saddened when I hear of a loss so young and sudden. May you truly be trusting in God above that at this time, he will give you comfort and peace.
Hasani Zulu
October 24, 2008
to a good friend a teammate, I going to miss you. With the time that I got to know you he's always been nice and outgoing. He served as a marines anda friend and now n peace.
Carol Barriere
October 24, 2008
Dear Rich family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Cindi, I know how much you love your kids and how hard this has to be! May God bless you and keep you strong.
Penny Crozier
October 24, 2008
Matthew had more heart and soul than anyone I have ever known. He will forever be in all of our hearts. He has become our guardian angel as he always wanted to be the protector of his family and loved ones. We will always treasure our "Matthew Moments" as they will bring a smile to our face and help us get through each day. He touched more people then he ever realized and made this world a more special place. As my tears continue and my heart is broken I feel so honored to have been a part of his life. To watch him grow from a boy to a man and leave such a legacy is a journey I am so glad I was apart of. Even though you were a 6'2 Marine you will always be my baby. MATTHEW AS ALWAYS I WILL BE THE GREATEST FAN OF YOUR LIFE Love You Aunt Penny
Kriss Tagliavento
October 24, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
patsy hamilton
October 23, 2008
Max,
We love you so much.
Patsy & Dave
Beth, Ron, Shea, and Mackenzie Woodard
October 23, 2008
Max and Family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers and we are so very sorry for your loss.
Faye Inman - Hacker
October 23, 2008
Max and family, I'm sorry I never had the pleasure of meeting your son. From the sounds of it he was a wonderful young man and the world is a sadder place without him now. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you deal with this great loss. In time I pray your memories bring you peace, joy, and comfort.
Tom Bontempi
October 23, 2008
Max, my thoughts and prayers to you and your family!
Scott and Mary - Jane Fisher
October 23, 2008
With all our love, we will miss Matt very much. You are in our thoughts and prayers. There are no words that we can say to ease your pain. We are here if and when you need us.
A. J. AND VIRGINIA RICH
October 23, 2008
to max and carol, we will always remember matthew as a happy go-lucky kid. he was always doing what needed to be done,and never worrying about what it cost him.we were very proud of him when he decided to join the marine corp.he did his job to the best of his ability.we will always be proud of him and he will live in our hearts forever.
Phyllis, Bill & Michael Georgen
October 23, 2008
To Matt's Family,
We had the pleasure of meeting Matt and spending time with him during the month he spent visiting Sue and David Martin in Texas. With his charm, humor and wit Matt instantly became an extended family member. We extend to you our most heartfelt, deepest sympathy and pray that you are able to feel some level of comfort knowing so many others cared deeply for Matt and have been touched by his presence.
Laurie Jackson
October 23, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Mike Molino
October 23, 2008
Max, Cindy and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Leon Branchaud
October 23, 2008
Matt, you were a good friend and an even better Marine. It was a pleasure serving with you in Iraq, and i am glad that i was able to meet such a motivating Marine. Semper Fidelis
KC Danny Doug Davis Boys
October 22, 2008
Matt, we never got to know you that well, but every time we got to visit we were always looking forward to seeing you. I was fortunate enough to see when you came back from Iraq. And I will never forget us going to the movies and just hanging out. I will never forget you, you were amazing. -Danny
Matt like Danny said we didn't know you to well but when we did see you it was always a lot of fun. I never had an older brother to look up to so I always would look up to you. Matt you helped me try to stop messing around in school and get good grades and pushed me to keep doing wrestling even when i wanted to quit. you push me to be better and I'm going to miss you so much.- KC
Matt was a great man.He taught me a lot of things like respect and many other things.This was a sad moment for everyone especially me.After he got back from the marines i was looking forward to meeting him again i never got that opportunity.I cant believe this happened, i wish you were still here.
DEAR DOUG
Jill Bowman
October 22, 2008
Cyndi, Farron, Derek, Max & Familly; It is with great sadness & an aching heart that I send to you all my sincere sympathy. I feel privledged & truly blessed to have known Matt. He, along with that big beautiful smile, will be deeply missed. You will all remain in thoughts & prayers. God Bless you.
Rest in peace, Matt.
Ray, Nicole, Sarajane, Ray, John and Jackson Sullivan
October 22, 2008
We will miss you so much Matt. When I think of you I remember you looking up at me with those beautiful "moon pie eyes" that you shared with your brother. To this day you are the only kid I know who was smart enough to figure out how much fun you could have with a catchup package (in the back of your parents brand new car!) I will never cast another fishing pole without thinking of you bud! I had the honor and privilege to be with Matt when he accepted the Lord. His faith grew so much in the time that he served our country, and I have no doubt about where he is now. And when I get up there I am going to kick his tail. To Max, Cindy, Farron, penny, aunt Jan and everyone who knew and loved Matt, I thank God for sharing him with me, I am a better person for it. I pray that his zest for life, kind heart, and quiet peace will live on in my own children. Love you
Don & Janice DeLong
October 22, 2008
To Penny, Jan,& Max,
We're so sorry to hear about Matt's passing. He was a great kid. It was always nice to see the smiles on your faces when you spoke of him at work. He was such a polite boy to have conversation with. We will always remember him as the little boy that helped fill our swimming pool for the first time. He was just so helpful to his uncle Butch. He will be greatly missed by everyone. Our prayers are with you all.
Bill Moss
October 22, 2008
To The Rich Family,
We are deeply sorry for your loss. It was a joy and priviledge coaching him at IHS and even more so talking to him recently after his return from duty. We will miss him.Coaches Bill Moss and Mark Sacco
Katie Sczepanski
October 22, 2008
Max, Cyndi, Derek, Farron & Family - I was so sorry to hear about Matt. I will always remember him as a smiling little kid in your front window on Troy Rd. I wanted you to know that I'm thinking of you, and wishing you comfort... and whatever you need the most right now.
John McCrory
October 22, 2008
Cindy, Max and Family,
I could not believe it when I heard of Matt's passing. I saw him in the mall just before he went to Iraq. I was so proud of him , he grew up to be a very good man. He will be missed very much. My most heartfelt condolences to all of you, and may God bless you and give you peace.
Rebecca Wager
October 22, 2008
Penny & Jan and all of the Rich family- There are no words to say at this difficult time- but find some peace and comfort knowing that Matthew touched more lives in his 22 short years than some do in 100 years- Just reading just a few of these entries shows me that he is a wonderful guy. I do know how much he means to his family- he will be in heaven watching over all of you-
Tina Gohar
October 22, 2008
Dear Jan, Penny and Family,
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Words do not describe what you must be going through. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. I pray God will give you the strenth to move on with your cherished memories of Matt in your hearts.
Tina Gohar
Eloise Barrett
October 22, 2008
Dear Max and Family;
We are extremely saddened by the tragic news we received about Matt. I remember the last time I saw Matt, he was getting ready to leave for his tour of duty to Iraq. He stopped by the house to let us know he was leaving and asked that we pray for him. God brought him safely home, but that we would still lose this fine young man so soon is so tragic. Words can not express the sorrow we feel. Please know that even though we are in Florida now and can not be with you at the service our prayers will be with you and the family as you go through this most difficult time. It feels like we lost one of our own family members. As we sat and talked about the good times we've had together, a song played that touched our hearts, and I share it with you. "Earth has no sorrow that heaven can not heal, ...there's healing for your sorrow, there's healing for your pain, there's shelter from the rain... Lord send the healing, for this we know, there is a balm in Gilead to heal your soul. " May the God of peace comfort you and be with you in this dark hour of grief and sorrow. We love you all and we pray that the wonderful memories of your lives together strengthen you.
Love and Prayers, Bishop Darrell and Eloise Barrett
Nancy Breen
October 22, 2008
Max & the entire Rich Family, our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time,if only we knew why these things happen. I truly believe the Lord does not give us more then we can bear only time will tell why. From someone with experience Time does Heal. Much Love The Breen Family
Jason Roberts
October 22, 2008
My thoughts are with the family and wishing you peace through this difficult time.
Peggy Drake
October 22, 2008
Max, Carol and family - We are truly devastated by the loss of Matthew. Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Stay strong and we are here for you. With much love and sadness - Peg, Tom, Dan and Joe
Courtney & Mya Griffin
October 22, 2008
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. I went to H.S. with Matt, and he was always a wonderful guy. He seemed to always be smiling, and could make anyone laugh. I will always remember him that way. He was a very selfless individual, & the type of soldier that makes you Proud to Be an American. My heart goes out to the family, and friends in grief.
RIP Matt, you will be loved and missed always.
April, Nate Bradford
October 22, 2008
Matthew was a wonderful person. I met him starting a different school and he was one of the only ones there that stopped to talk to me and offer support/friendship. I'll never forget him and he'll be greatly missed.
Mac Forbes
October 22, 2008
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Colby Ceratt
October 22, 2008
Max and family-No words can express how sorry I am for your loss. Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Michael Benchoff
October 22, 2008
Max, Cynthia, and Family,
My name is Mike Benchoff. I was Matts' Sergeant and roommate in Iraq. I just wanted to let you know that it was a honor and pleasure to work with and get to know Matt. I got to know Matt more than any of my Marines and I consider him my brother. He used to tell me about Ithaca, Max and Cynthia all the time, so much that it felt like Ithaca was my home and Max and Cynthia were my parents. It saddens me that this had to happen to such a great guy and that your family has to go through this. If you ever need anything please email me and let me know. I am currently in Iraq but if you ever need anything I will make it happen.
God Bless and Semper Fi,
Mike Benchoff
Pat&Allison Martin &family
October 21, 2008
Max and family, Sending our deepest condolences. Hold on to the good times. May god help guide you through these times. Remember there are alot of people sending you love and prayers.
Stephanie Cushman
October 21, 2008
Max and family, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your son. I pray that God will comfort and hold you in His arms during this difficult time. Please know that all of us in Geneva grieve with you and are thinking of you.
JoAnn Bowers
October 21, 2008
Cindy, Max, and Family,
I was so incredibly saddened to hear of Mathew's passing.He was a great guy and the last time I saw him, he was getting ready to go into the military. I told him that his family should be very proud of him and I wished him well. I can still see that great smile and he gave me the biggest hug!
God certainly has one special angel now.
God Bless You All,
JoAnn Bowers
Zack B
October 21, 2008
My sincerest condolences to the family.
Matt was one of my best friends growing up. His intentions were always sincere and he had a good heart. While we lost touch around high school I consider him to be one of the best kids I knew. He will be remembered.
Michael and Emily Price
October 21, 2008
Max, you have been my friend and brother since second grade. You and the whole Rich family have been a second family to me. We have been through many tough times together but nothing like this. The passing of Matt breaks my heart as if he was my own. He will be greatly missed.
Phil and Sally Quick
October 21, 2008
To the whole family..We are so sad to hear of your loss, and can't begin to tell you how sorry we are. It's been years since we saw all of you, but you are part of our lives. Please know we are with you in thought and prayer. God Bless you all..
Bob, Kim, Lynnsey, Nicole and Katelyn Schramm
October 21, 2008
To the Rich Family,
We are very sorry to hear of your loss. Matt will be missed by all of us, whose hearts he touched. We have wonderful memories of Matt and may your memories bring you comfort. We had the pleasure of seeing Matt again a few weeks ago and it was great to see what a wonderful young man he had become. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Bob, Hunter, Yvette Kovel
October 21, 2008
Our Hearts go out to the Rich family, Matt will be missed by many friends and family, I enjoyed many good times with Matt, our deepest sympathy,our thoughts are with you.
SANDRA AND CLARENCE SHERMAN
October 21, 2008
WE HAD THE PLEASURE OF MEETING MATTHEW 2 YEARS AGO THANKSGIVING WHEN HE CAME HOME WITH OUR SON A FELLOW MARINE MATTHEW E. TUCKER. WE ENJOYED YOUR MATT VERY MUCH AND HE WAS A GREAT PERSON AND HE WILL BE MISSED BY OUR FAMILY. OUR REGRETS ARE WITH YOU AT THIS TRYING TIME AND KNOW THAT YOU ARE IN OUR PRAYERS AND I WOULD LIKE TO TALK TO YOU SOMETIME ABOUT THE FUN WE HAD WHEN MATT WAS WITH US. THE FUNERAL HOME WILL HAVE OUR PHONE NUMBER AND ADDRESS PLEASE CALL
Bev, Tim and Daniel Whittier
October 21, 2008
Max and Family,
We are so sorry to hear of Matt's passing. You are in our hearts and prayers at this time of sadness.
Darlise Barrett Singleton
October 21, 2008
On Behalf of the Barrett family, we send our deepest regards to Max, Cindy, Derrick and Farron. We lived next to you all for years and still hold fast the memories of the boys playing football in your yard. May God bless and keep you during your hour of sorrow. We are praying for you.
Bishop Darrell and Eloise Barrett, Darrell, Byron, Maurice, Darlise and Dominic
Gene (Pop Pop) Ryder
October 21, 2008
Matthew you are going to be missed. I wish I could see you right now but I know your in a good place. I'm so proud of all the great things you have completed in your life, God has truly blessed you and all that you have done.
I've loved you more than words can imagine and I am going to miss you always. With all my love and prayers.
Love Your, POP POP Ryder
Nancy Forbes
October 21, 2008
My dearest Max, Janice, Rich and family. I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. I know that I never had the priviledge of meeting Matt but I know you guys and I am sitting here writting this note with tears running down my face. He was so nice looking and I know how proud of him you all must have been and I know that he will trully be missed by his family. It all seams like such a waste when someone so young, so smart, and so good is taken away so suddenly and so tradicly. Again I say, my heart and prayers are with you all during this time of greef and loss. I wish that there was something that I could do or something that I could say to bring him back for you or help you through this but it is not in my power. Trust that God will see you through this and time will help ease the pain. I know that he will always be remembered and loved by you, and rightfully so.
With deepest sympathy, love and prayers, always, Nancy
DEBORAH PEQUIGNOT
October 21, 2008
YOU DON'T KNOW ME I JUST WANTED TO SAY I'M SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS AND THANK YOU TO HIM FOR HIS SERVICE IN IRAQ.
Rachel Colongeli Ford
October 21, 2008
Rich Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I was Matt's science teacher for two years and I can't tell you how much I enjoyed Matt as a student. His silly grin and enthusiasm made him one my most memorable students. The world has lost a very special person.
Sarah and Brad Hamilton
October 21, 2008
To the entire Rich Family,
My heart breaks for you right now. I wish we were able to attend his service, but we won't be. You are all in our prayers and we send our deepest love and regrets.
shannon schweiger
October 21, 2008
Max and family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. We are deeply saddened by this loss, Matthew will be missed by all. I am so glad I got to know him.
Al and Dory Sample
October 21, 2008
Dear Max and family--We are so sorry we cannot be with you to express our sympathy in person. Please know that we are thinking of you, and hold you in our thoughts and prayers. May your memories comfort you.
Annette & Kristen Annette Bartlow
October 21, 2008
My thoughts go out to your whole family. I have had a few great times with Matt visiting when on leave. Me and my friend from texas will miss him greatly.Matt was very fun and loving and sweet..Thanks for protecting our country!! we love ya Matt!!!
Abby Hatfield
October 21, 2008
Max, Tike, Jan, Penny, Mary Jane Albert and all other family. I feel the power of the loss of Matthew. I am so sorry for the loss of him. Keep him alive in your memories. With much heartfelt sympathy,
Tyler Salino
October 21, 2008
Dear Rich Family,
I'm deeply saddened to hear of Matt's passing. I can't be there to pay my respects but please accept my condolences, Matt and all of you are in my prayers in this tough time.
Pat Barr
October 21, 2008
Max and family -
Was so sad to read of Matthew's passing. I can’t fathom loosing a son, but you must be proud of all he accomplished in his short life.
Our thoughts and hearts are with you!
Pat Barr and family
Debbie Mahool
October 21, 2008
Max, Cindy and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know my prayers and thoughts are with you and may your wonderful memories help you through this difficult time.
Love, Deb
Norm Ellis
October 21, 2008
Cindi, Farron, and all the Rich Family, Words can not express how much I feel for your lost, Mathew is and always be such a great kid, one that I am very proud to have had the opportunity to know. With much love.
Love Norm, Amy and Derrick
Byron Barrett
October 21, 2008
Max, Cindy, Derek, & Fallon... Matt will be deeply missed. Growing up next door was the best thing a kid could ask for. You all were much more than neighbors, you were family. Not only did you open your home but you opened your hearts, we shared food and laughs but most of all we shared our love. Please know that we will be praying for you and your family, that your hearts will be comforted in your time of sorrow. With all our Love, The Barretts.
Melissa Gentilcore
October 21, 2008
Max and Family,
I'm sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Bonnie Farrell
October 21, 2008
I had the pleasure of meeting Matthew at his Kindergarten registration, I was the school secretary WAY back then. Matthew told me he was going to be President of the United States that day. I never once doubted Matthew was going to achieve great things. I was not surprised when I found out Matthew had become a soldier, he was destined for greatness in one form or another.
Matthew touched many hearts during his short life. I know he will forever be in my memories and in my heart.
The world has lost an incredible guy.
My thoughts go out to his family and friends.
Vern, Nadine & Dustin Morgan
October 21, 2008
Max and Carol we feel so bad for you and your family in this trying time. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers, we are so sorry.
Bud Baldwin
October 21, 2008
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Joe and Wanda Forbes
October 21, 2008
Max and family, You will never know how sorry we are. We loved Matthew. Know that our prayers and thoughts are with you all. Sorry we aren't going to be able to be with you. We love you all. Uncle Joe and Aunt Wanda
Eric Bowers
October 21, 2008
My condolences and thoughts are with the family.
Margaret Wood
October 21, 2008
Jan, Penny and families - I know the heartbreak you must be going through. Please be assured that the prayers of many are with you during this difficult time. I so vividly remember both of you talking about him during his time in the service and preparing boxes of "goodies" to send him. So tough to lose someone you love so much. Sincerely hope it brings you a little comfort to know so many are praying for you.
Joe & Agnes Tagliavento
October 21, 2008
Dear Max and the entire Rich Family, We are extremely sadden to hear of your son's passing. Please accept our sincerely condolences. Each of you are in our hearts and prayers.
Matt, Thank you for serving and God Bless you.
All our love,
Cindy Kemp
October 21, 2008
Max and family,
We are devastated by the loss of Matthew. He was very special to us and close to our hearts. We have so many fond memories of him over the years. He had grown into such a wonderful young man who will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Rodney, Cindy, Matt & Stephanie Kemp
Gerry Friedman
October 21, 2008
My condolences.
Melanie Ellis Rogers
October 21, 2008
Max & family:
I am so very sorry for your loss.
J M
October 21, 2008
Matt was a wonderful soul, he was compassionate, caring and always willing to lend a hand. He was a good friend, one who no matter how long it had been since you last spoke still cared for you just the same. My thoughts and prayers will be with his family in through this hard time. For Matt, here is a hearty OOORAHH! May you always know that you were loved and respected by many, and that you will be greatly missed, especially by me.
Patty Berarducci
October 21, 2008
Max, Cindy, Derek, and Farron,
I can not tell you how deeply sorry I am for your loss. I know the pain in your hearts is excruciating, and time alone will never lessen that ache. Your friends and families will be there to hold you up and help you through, to help you remember all the wonderful times you spent with Matt. As parents, you did a remarkable job raising an honerable, upstanding man. He remains a wonderful son, a terrific brother, and a protector of freedom to us all. We all thank you for having given us Matt to know, and to admire.
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How to support Matthew's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Matthew Rich's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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