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Matthew Fergus Obituary
Matthew James Fergus, age 26, passed away suddenly on July 20, loving husband of Melissa, nee Dopirak; beloved son of Terrance and Susan Riley Fergus; loving brother of Alanna Wydra and Erin (Rob) Scarpelli; dear son-in-law of James (Marcia) Dopirak and Karen (Chuck Currie) Dopirak; dear brother-in-law of Jennifer (Russ) Carr and Stephanie Dopirak; loving uncle of Luke, Nathan, David and Abigail; dear nephew, cousin and friend to many. Matt was a former college hockey star and an avid softball player and Cubs fan. Visitation Wednesday, July 23 from 3 to 9 p.m. at Cumberland Chapels, 8300 W. Lawrence Ave., Norridge. The visitation will continue Thursday morning at 10 a.m. until the time of Funeral Service at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Gift of Hope, 660 N. Industrial Dr., Elmhurst, IL 60126. Info, 708-456-8300 or www.cumberlandchapels.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Fergus
Sponsored by Matthew's Family.
Susan Riley Fergus
July 19, 2022
Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Matthew 19:14
Thank you Matthew James for your example of faith. You inspire us!
Jimmy Kieras
November 17, 2020
Prayers to you good buddy! Miss the days of swimming in my pool with the Larsen’s. Hope you are at peace and watching over your family. You are truly missed
Susan Riley Fergus
August 29, 2017
Matthew James, missing your Irish wit and loving you always.
March 6, 2017
February 17, 2017
November 17, 2016
Cubs win the World Series!!
Graceland Cemetery, Chicago - Chapel Hill
November 17, 2016
March 9, 2016
Miss You Matty
Matt Fergus Fan Club
July 18, 2015
Beloved Matthew, until we meet again, Together we live, laugh, love & pray, Always holding you close in our hearts.
Matthew's Mother & Dad
October 10, 2014
"You're our beautiful, beautiful, beautiful, beautiful boy."
St.Viator High School Hockey
October 9, 2014
Matthew's favorite toast to friends & family
October 9, 2014
Kelly (Murphy) Pena
May 16, 2014
Although, I didn't know your son...my deepest sympathy goes to your entire family. I was roommates with Melissa throughout College at WMU. Melissa if you read this my heart goes out to you. I know several years have passed since this tragic accident. Unfortunately, this is the first I have heard of it, since losing contacting. But I pray you and they family have found peace.
Sincerely with all my Love and Prays,
Kelly (Murphy) Pena
Cheryl, John and Ken Granell
May 7, 2014
May your heart find peace through the healing power of our Lord, Jesus Christ, the author of love and life.
Matthew Paulish
April 11, 2013
Still think about ya now and then when lacing them up to play hockey. Rest In Peace brother.
Alanna, Matt, Erin
Susan Riley Fergus
January 14, 2013
Matt, Dad, Melissa, Mom & #14 racecar
January 14, 2013
Matt, Alanna, Erin, Mom & Dad - Forever 5
January 14, 2013
Luke and Uncle Matt - Cheese & Crackers!
January 14, 2013
Owen Matthew
Susan Riley Fergus
January 14, 2013
Owen Matthew carries on Uncle Matt's cheese & crackers tradition. We love you more today than yesterday as you have loved us Matthew James!
Uncle Matt and Nathan
August 20, 2012
Phyllis Miskin
July 14, 2011
Keeping Melissa and the Fergus family in my thoughts and prayers.
July 12, 2011
Miss you bro. Life just ain't the same without you.
Fergus, Glibs and Rock!
Anthony Vaccarello
November 2, 2009
Melissa, Sue and Terry-
I came across this picture and wanted to share it with you. The BusBank has not been the same since we lost Matt. He will never be forgotten! Love you all.
Natalie Murphy-Goad
January 11, 2009
He will be greatly missed as he always had such a wonderfully magnetic spirit. I will continue to keep your entire family in my thoughts and prayers and pray for you to find some sort of comfort in the years to come. I firmly believe that he is looking after you all and skating happily in the sky above!
Dan Murphy
January 11, 2009
Sue, Terry, Alanna and Erin, and Melissa. We just heard of Matt's passing recently, through Viator's communication. So very, very sorry, our condolences to all of you.
Recall all of you, along with Matt, over so many Raymond's years. Memories to cherish.
Our best wishes, you are all in our prayers. God speed for Matt.
Dan & Marie Murphy (Vince and Natalie)
Karen Dopirak
October 17, 2008
There hasn't been a day that has gone by that I haven't thought about Matt. He has meant so much to our family and our daughter Melissa. **Matt is a person that you just loved!! He was very caring and thoughtful and loved life! Most of all Matt and Melissa loved and cherrished each other to the fullest! We have been blessed to have Matthew Fergus in our family today and alway! We love you Matt.. Love, Karen and Chuck
Susan Riley Fergus
October 16, 2008
Words cannot express how much our family has appreciated each and every entry in this guest book. There's many a day that I re-read what you have all written and am reminded of how our dear Matthew has touched so many lives. Your kind words, prayers and support mean so much to each of us!
Thank-you, Matt's mother
Stephanie Dopirak
October 10, 2008
Still thinking of everyone. I love you all.
Patrick Riley
October 8, 2008
Dear Fergus family,
Words cannot describe the heartache we all feel with the loss of Matt. My prayers go out to you all.
Ana Cetrone
August 5, 2008
I knew Matt (or 'Mergus', as I called him) for almost 3 years as a colleague. And I considered and trusted him as a friend.
You could always count on Matt for an honest opinion and a good laugh when you needed it. But what struck me the most about him--underneath all the playfulness--was a very mature young man that his family could really be proud of.
Melissa, there was never a doubt about how much he wanted to be with you and how proud he was in everything you did. He wasn't afraid to show this and I respected him for that. He loved you every day.
Thank you Fergus family for sharing Matt with us in life. You raised a good son and I will truly miss him.
Mona Kelly
August 4, 2008
Melissa,
Words cannot express how sorry I am for you and those who loved Matthew. We think of you daily and hope you will come back soon. Deepest Sympathy, Mona Kelly
Donna
August 4, 2008
To the Fergus Family,
I went to St. Raymonds with Matt...I havent seen him in many, many years....but I can still remember his funny nature and his laugh. Today I was told of his passing, and I know after losing my brother and dad, there is nothing anyone can say that will make this easier. Time wont either... but the memories and knowing that one day you will see him again WILL. I hope God grants you peace soon.
Love,
Donna Hrycenko
Brad Nowacki
July 30, 2008
Melissa and Family,
I am very sorry for your loss, please know that my thoughts are with you.
Dana Nowacki (Millard)
July 30, 2008
Melissa and the Fergus family,
I am so sorry to hear of your great loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jennifer Baustad
July 30, 2008
To the Fergus family,
I have never met Matt, but a friend of mine, Nancy, worked with Matt and talked fondly of him often. She always said how much fun he was and how he would keep her and her colleagues in stitches every day. I will certainly miss the stories. I hope, in time, your memories bring you comfort.
Michele (LaBrose) Lome
July 28, 2008
My heart goes out to Matt's family, especially his wife. I attended high school with Matt and always remember him as a happy, friendly guy. May you find strength in this time of great tragedy and joy in your memories. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Judy Barrett
July 25, 2008
Melissa,
I am so sorry to hear about Matt's tragic accident. I never met Matt but Wes talked about both of you all the time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Wes's parents, Judy and Verlon Barrett
Brian Small
July 25, 2008
Fergus Family,
We are deeply saddened by what has happened to a great guy. Our first day in the apartment you guys heard us listening to the cubs game and invited us up on the roof. I think it shows how welcoming and loving of a person Matt was. whenever I rode the bus home with Matt he was always friendly and we would always talk about the cubs. Matt will be definitely be missed. If there is anything we can do to help, please let us know.
Elizabeth Quinn
July 25, 2008
To the family and friends of Matt,
Matt had the incomparable quality of leaving lasting impressions on those of us who had the joy of knowing him. I hope there is some peace in knowing how much he was loved and that he will always live on. The essence and memories can never fade or die. It's sadly been some time since I saw Matt, but I hope those who were closer to him are comforted in knowing that his spirit and character touched so many people, that even years later he is still a strong presence in their hearts. He was a wonderful person and I'm so deeply sorry for your loss. May God's healing power help you through this very difficult time.
Kristen (Moorhouse) Speck
July 24, 2008
To Melissa and the entire Fergus Family,
Matt was loved by everyone he knew and those who only knew him a little. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. May your memories with and of Matt help comfort you during this extremely difficult time.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Kristen and Tom Speck
Andy Gappa
July 24, 2008
From the few summers I spent umping in the bar league while Matt played, I can honestly say he was one of my favorite guys. He was quick to help in any situation; he treated everyone he met as an equal; and he was one of those rare really good athletes that never talked himself up nor downed anyone else. His wife, family, and team are in my thoughts and prayers.
Emily Welker
July 24, 2008
Melissa and the entire Fergus family,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Robin Ann Sowizrol
July 24, 2008
Dear Fergus Family, I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Nick
July 24, 2008
Having known "carreer" Matt, I wanted to share with those who loved him most that he was one of the hardest working men I ever had the privilege of meeting. He arrived early and stayed late, truly paving a solid path for all his peers to follow. His ethic was contagious to those around him.
Lauren Komarek-Kucera
July 24, 2008
Melissa, I am so sorry to hear the the news. I just found out yesterday from Elana. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time. You are in my heart and prayers.
Cecilia and Team Cheap 'n Easy
July 24, 2008
To Melissa, family & friends of Matt...
We knew Matt from afar when playing softball with Black Rock & a few games of flippy cup back at the bar. He was so fun, always in good spirits, and always had a smile on his face! We are so sorry about this loss, and keep you & your loved ones in our prayers...
He is in good hands now, please believe that...
Theresa Heinemann (Fed)
July 24, 2008
Melissa,
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Scott Benjaminson
July 24, 2008
The entire Softball & Supper family wishes to extend its sincere sympathies to Matt and Melissa's family and friends. Fridays at the diamond and back at Black Rock aren't gonna be the same. We're holding you guys in our hearts.
Lauren Gauck
July 24, 2008
To the Fergus Family,
I haven't seen Matt since high school and now live in Tennessee, but had several people call me to tell me about the tragedy. I think that speaks to the kind of person Matt was and the impact he had on people during his life. I can't imagine what you all are going through; I am so sorry for your loss.
Melissa Mueller
July 24, 2008
To the Fergus Family,
I can not begin to express how deeply sorry I am for your loss. Matt was truly an amazing person, and he will not be forgotten by the many people's lives he touched during his life. The time and experiences we went through together contributed greatly to the person I have become and I will always remember him with love and happiness. I am thankful for the time I was able to spend with him and your family. My prayers are with all of you during this time.
Timothy May
July 24, 2008
My condolences to the entire family,
I had the opportunity to meet and play basketball with Matt on Wednesday and Thursday nights. Durring those breif encounters, he left a favorable impression on us all.
Bill Dolak
July 24, 2008
I am so sorry to hear of this tragic loss. I just learned of it today. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Terrilee Jenks
July 24, 2008
Dear Melissa and family,
Matt brought alot of personality when he came into 4 Treys where Jeffrey works. Jeffrey and Dave were deeply impacted by this loss. It's obvious that he was a very exceptional person and friend. I have had you continually on my mind since Sunday when I heard. I hold you in my prayers and love.
Jessica Schneider
July 24, 2008
To Melissa and the Fergus Family-
I cannot stop thinking of you all. My thoughts are constantly encompassed with how each of you are doing. You have been in my prayers daily. I believe that Matt's energy, character, and love is preserved in each of you. My deepest sympathy's for your loss. May God bless you with love and strength in this difficult time.
Kalyn Wilson
July 24, 2008
I wish I could see you clowning around the office or hear you say, "Hola, que tal?" or joke about crazy clients... You'll be greatly missed.
To Matt's family: Please accept my condolences and prayers during your family's time of grief.
Kevin and Tracey Dolsen
July 24, 2008
Erin and Family,
I am so very sorry to hear about Matt. I just heard this morning while up in Northern Michigan. Matt will always have a special place in my heart. He was such a special kid and brought so much joy to everyone around him. Please know that you are all in our prayers.
Jessica Kolk
July 23, 2008
I just wanted to extended my sincere condolescenes on your loss. I went to high school with Matt and always remember him with a smile on his face and always telling a great joke! I pray that God comforts you all during this time.
Brian Mueller
July 23, 2008
Fergus Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Matt's attitude towards life, his family, and friends has truly inspired me to live my life to the fullest. My prayers are with you.
Beth Zima
July 23, 2008
Melissa,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We are thinking of you during this difficult time.
Beth (Wightman) & Joe Zima
Stacy Howland
July 23, 2008
Dear Alanna and Family,
I am so sorry for everything you are going through. I cannot stop thinking about your tragedy. Please know you are in my thoughts and I wish you all the support in the world from each other and those around you.
Stacy Howland
July 23, 2008
Dear Alanna and Family,
I am so sorry about everything you are going through. I cannot stop thinking about your tragedy. Please know that you are in my thoughts and I wish you all the support in the world from each other and those around you.
Autumn Laidler
July 23, 2008
Melissa, I am so sorry for your loss, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Ali and Eric Cutler/Alley
July 23, 2008
I worked with Matt and he is one of the most considerate, friendly people I've ever met. What an amazing sense of humor, positive attitude and smile that man had. He was a true gift to this world and will be deeply missed around the office and on the softball field. We love you and offer our warmest condolences to everyone who loved and knew him.
Jes LaFevers and the Pit Crew
July 23, 2008
Melissa and Family,
Our sympathy goes out to you during this difficult time. Matt will be missed at the track but he will always be in our hearts.
Larry & Kathy Lange
July 23, 2008
Our hearts are full of sadness for your unbelievable loss of your beloved son, husband, brother, uncle, and to all a friend!
And now Matt is looking down, and so grateful for the WONDERFUL family he was blessed with!
May God Bless you all with peace
Bhree Nagel
July 23, 2008
My prayers are with you Melissa.
With deepest sympathies,
Bhree
Cheryl Quinn
July 23, 2008
I remember Matt as a little boy when Erin and Kati Quinn played basketball, and then as a charming "big" boy later on. What a sad loss.
Frank Trocchio
July 23, 2008
I wanted to offer my deepest condolences for your loss. I played Little League baseball with Matt and graduated from high school with him and I will always remember him as a fun-loving guy with a great heart. My prayers are with Matt's family.
tom lockyer
July 23, 2008
Although Matt and I didn't speak much after I moved away, the bond that we forged in school could never have been broken. I was lucky enough to tell Matt this: that spending time in the Fergus house and being a friend/brother with Matt truly impacted me and who I have become as a person in the most positive way imaginable. Thank you all for being so kind and loving to everyone of us. Even though Matt is no longer with us, he will never really be gone. A person of Matt's energy and love will live with all who were lucky enough to be blessed with a friend like Matt. My love and respect are with all of the Fergus Family, I love you all so much, again thank you all for every thing that you have given us.
Cork, Sean, Brad and Matt
July 23, 2008
Sarah Guski
July 23, 2008
Melissa & The Fergus Family:
Words cannot express how much Matt will be missed. Almost all of my memories from high school, up until most recently, involved Matt. He always made everyone laugh with his outgoing personality and was truly a pleasure to be around.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Susan Latala
July 23, 2008
Sue & Terry,
Joe & I are deeply saddened by the
death of your son Matt. We pray that you will find peace in all of your
wonderful memories. God be with you
& your family.Sue & Joe Latala
Patrice Scott
July 23, 2008
Erin,
My heartfelt condolences to you and your family for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Joe D'Urso
July 23, 2008
Melissa and Fergus Family,
I am so sorry to hear of Matt's passing. Though I never knew him in person, Matt and I had a very cordial business relationship by phone as he helped with travel arrangements for my Broadway traveling show throughout the states. We kidded each other as he was a Cubbies fan and I am a big Yankees fan and we kept each other up to speed on each team's progress. I could tell Matt was a good man from how he spoke, what he said in our conversations and in reading this guest book it seems I only knew the tip of the iceberg of a good guy.
I wish I had some words that could help heal but there is no doubt that Matt is in a place where good people go. I truly believe that.
My warmest thoughts to you all.
Best,
Joe D'Urso
James Eggert
July 23, 2008
Dear Fergus Family,
I am extremely saddened and sorry for your loss. I grew up playing hockey with Matt; his memory will be with me forever. He will be missed by everyone whose’ life he touched. My prayers go out to you.
Brad Sohl
July 23, 2008
Melissa and Fergus Family,
Matt was one of my oldest and dearest friends. I consider myself fortunate for having known such a bright, talented, personable and loving man. It is a testament to the way he lived his life that he will be missed by so many. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Robert & Sharon Czarnowski
July 23, 2008
We were saddened to hear of Matt's sudden death and are so deeply sorry for your loss. Matt was a wonderful person. Please know that you, his family, are in our prayers, as you continue to live your daily lives.
Julie (Buscemi) Neuleib
July 23, 2008
My deepest sympathies are with the Fergus family, especially Melissa. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Though sadly I didn't keep in touch with Matt after high school, I remember him always being kind to those around him. My prayers are with your family during this tragic and difficult time.
Rachel Ladd (Carpenter)
July 23, 2008
The Fergus Family
I am so sad to hear about your loss. When I think of Matt I think of watching him almost every summer day playing hocky from across the street in Arlington Hts. He was such a friendly and wonderful person. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Sandy Cochran
July 23, 2008
Melissa
I was in total disbelief when I received the message on my voicemail from your mom about the sad news. There is not much that one can say at a time like this....only that you are constantly in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that God will sustain you through this difficult time and that you can lean on Him. May you be assured of His presence as you weather this storm.
I am so glad that Earl & I were able to attend your wedding reception and had the privilege of meeting Matt. We were totally impressed with him and his outgoing personality.
As the days go by, Melissa, always know that I am only a phone call away. If you need anything, please call.
Love ya!
Scott & Loni Hansen
July 23, 2008
Melissa,
So sorry to hear about Matt. I still can't belive it. I am very glad that I got to know Matt the last couple of years on race weekends and always enjoyed talking with him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Linda and Joe Nagel
July 23, 2008
PLease know Melissa and the Fergus
family that you are in our prayers and in our hearts. May the Lord guide and comfort you through this difficult time.
Sheila Carroll
July 23, 2008
Sue & Terry,
You both are always in my thoughts, I will keep you and your family in my prayers. I love You.
Ale Gonzalez
July 23, 2008
I'm deeply sorry for your loss. Matt is one of kind and has made a huge impact amongst his peers. He's so well liked and meant so much to many that he will be dearly missed. He'll always live in our hearts and will never be forgotten.
Colleen & Bruce MacDonald
July 22, 2008
Melissa & Family,
We were shocked and so sad to hear about Matt. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this terrible, difficult time.
With Deepest Sympathy,
(Your Pit Neighbors)
The Welc's
July 22, 2008
Terry, Sue and Melissa
I cant tell you how saddened we were to hear of Matt's sudden death from Brad. Matt was a very engaging young man who touched all of us. Very hard to imagine what you all are going through. Know we are all praying for your family as you work deal with this loss of such a personable and loving young man.
Patti Fergus
July 22, 2008
Dear Melissa, Susan, Terry, Alanna, Erin, Rob, Luke and Nathan,
Matt was an extraordinary young man. He was charming, funny, and he lit up a room just by walking into it. There are no words to explain how sorry we are for your loss. We love you.
Aunt Patti and Uncle Tim
Adila Krndzija
July 22, 2008
Dear Alanna,
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please, let me know if there is anything I can do to help you at this time. You and your family are in my thoughts and my heart goes out to you in these days.
Mary Turner (COACH USA CHICAGO)
July 22, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
John & Betty Weidenbach
July 22, 2008
Words can never fully express the sadness we feel over Matt's death. We have been blessed to know Matt and see him grow into a fun-loving, faithfilled husband, son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle and friend. Our loving thoughts, prayers and concern go out to each and every one of you. Love you to pieces,
Paul Franco
July 22, 2008
Melissa,My wife and I are were sadden to hear about the loss of your husband Matt.We had the
pleasure to meet the both of you
while visting my daughter Stacy in Chicago.
Stacy and Wes often spoke
of you two.We were in Chicago last
last month,we were told you two
were of out of town,we came to watch your first softball game.
Matt will be deeply missed.You are in our prayers,may God be with you.
Paul and Cindy Franco
Lansing Michigan
Linda Good
July 22, 2008
Dear Melissa,
I am so very sorry to hear about this tragic accident. My heart goes out to you and your familiy. I hope you know your friends in Pennsylvania would be more than willing to help if there is anything we can do. Please keep in touch.
Matt and Melissa's Reception
July 22, 2008
Chuck and Ashley Jepson
July 22, 2008
Melissa and Fergus family, we are deeply sorry for your sudden loss. Matt is one of the most genuine people I have ever met and he will be greatly missed.
Gayle Butterfield
July 22, 2008
Dear Melissa and Matt's Family,
Our hearts break with the pain of your loss and ours. We place your precious hearts in God's hands and ask Him to comfort you and walk you through this.
With all our love and prayers,
Aunt Gayle and Uncle Mike
Kimberly and TJ Montgomery
July 22, 2008
Melissa and The Fergus Family,
We are so sorry to hear of Matts tragic and untimely death. We offer our sincere sympathy for you and all the lives Matt touched. We will continue to keep you and the Fergus family in our thoughts and prayers.
Sean, Carla & Annabella McAnally
July 22, 2008
Melissa and Fergus Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Matt was our dearest friend and a person who was loved by so many. We are fortunate to have had Matt in our lives and we will always keep the times we shared together close to our hearts.
Amanda Truppe
July 22, 2008
Melissa & Family -
My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. I cannot even put into words how deeply sorry I am. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I am honored to know Matt and consider it a blessing to have shared many laughs with him.
Melissa Lewis
July 22, 2008
Melissa,
I am extremely sorry for your loss and please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. God will give you the strength to get thought this unfortunite time in you life.
Melissa Wray
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