Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Matthew Kelly Obituary
A memorial service will be at 5 p.m. Friday at Cornerstone Church, 10431 Brayton Drive.
Matthew was born July 19, 1975, in Georgia. He worked at the Elmendorf Air Force Base Exchange for the past 10 years in the electronics section, where he had vast knowledge of all electronics, especially video games and systems.
Matthew loved snowboarding, video and computer games, dragons, books and photography -- especially taking pictures of his family. He loved his whole family, whose members are extremely close, and his many friends.
"Matthew had a loud voice and great personality," his family recalled. "He always made everyone laugh. He was always there to help anyone who needed it. He was an organ donor, and in death will keep helping many more people.
"Matthew was greatly loved by everyone, especially his family, and he will be very greatly missed. He will be forever in our hearts."
Matthew is survived by his wife, Jennifer Kelly, who carries his unborn son, Matthew; sons, David Kelly of Anchorage and Aaron Kelly of South Dakota; parents, Floyd and Marsha Kelly of Anchorage; brother and sister-in-law, Michael and Krista Kelly; nephews, Shawn and Jonathan; niece, Samantha, all of Anchorage; and many friends.
Arrangements are with Janssen's Evergreen Memorial Chapel.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Kelly
Jennifer Kelly
May 30, 2009
Well, This is my last entry. I want to start by a little prayer...Lord, I praise you for all you have done. I thank you for taking Matt into your forever loving and everlasting arms. Please bless all of Matts friends and family and guide them to you so when your are ready for us, we can all be together in heaven...AMEN
I want to say Thank you to everyone again. Time flies when you miss someone. Matt was a young, wonderful man who had many plans. He lived well and will be remember by all. I will talk about him so much to his children so they know who he was and how much he loved them. Still saddens me to wake up without him.
His living family...I hope and pray that they know he watches from heaven guiding us. We can't hear him but know that he is there. Well some of us can still hear his voice. I hope that never goes away.
Mike his brother has printed this guest book from their last entry. I have copied the rest to print and add it to the book. I can make copies if anyone wishes to have one. Please email your address to [email protected].
If anyone wishes to call us. Please feel free to @ 1-907-929-0375.
I MISS YOU!
You are my missing puzzle piece. It will be complete when we are completed.
James Wilson
May 18, 2009
Okay,
I've tried to post this story a few times but for one reason or another it never seems to make it through. Once, on the way to work, I was in traffic behind Matt. He was in his little pick up with the music cranked!! There was construction and we were stuck at the intersection of Boniface and DeBarr I think. Matt was pinging!! I could see him in his pickup desperatly trying to find a way to get out of traffic so he could use and alternate route. I was trying to get his attention by honking my horn and waving at him in his rear view mirror. I was waving out the window at him. Anything to get his attention. Finaly traffic opened up and he jumped on the gas, out of the single lane of traffic, took a left turn and was out of sight. Now if I had been able to get his attention I would have told him not to worry about being late for work because I was there to verify his alibi. So I stay in the lane and show up to work and about 10 minutes later Matt comes in all sweaty and hyper!! So I proceed to ask him where the heck he's been. I told him that I had come down Boniface too and there was no traffic or construction!! MAN WAS HE HYPED UP!!! I think I made some suggestions for some relaxation techniques and I let him off the hook pretty quickly though...
James Wilson
May 18, 2009
Jennifer,
I was touched by your latest entry. I just wanted to let you know that everyone who has any kids has the fear at one time or another that they might be getting it wrong. That's normal. I just want you to know that as long as you have family around you and you include them in your sons lives you have very little to fear. I know it's hard for you to raise those two boys on your own but lean on family when you need to. That's what they are there for. I don't have to tell you that you have to keep going every day, one foot in front of the other, for those boys. The rewards at the end are immeasurable. In a way I envy you because I am not in a position to raise my sons. I know it's hard for you but enjoy it while you can because before you know it they will be grown and out of the house. My oldest is graduating high school in 3 weeks!!!
Your wife forever!
May 15, 2009
To everyone, It will be a year in 19 days!
To Matt, I miss you so much, it is hard with you. I do not know what to do sometimes. I am trying to be strong and everyone says I am, but it hurts. When I talk about you I smile because I know that you are happy with no pain watching over everyone you love. But when I talk to you, I cry so much it hurts. I want you with us. I wish you could hug me and tell me it is alright. To kiss you again, to watch you sing when you think I am not looking. Mostly I wish could be here in PERSON for your sons. It is not right have you taken from them. They will know of you but not you. It saddens my soul to see David cry because he misses you so much. I am worried that I cannot raise them well without you. I fear that I am doing it wrong. I love you, babie!
Jennifer Kelly
October 25, 2008
This is just a note to let the friends of Matt know that his son was born on Oct. 15, 2008. He was exactly 10lbs., @ 1:06am. We miss him always and forever.
Matthew Stephen Kelly II
Looks just like him! God Bless!
James Wilson
August 16, 2008
Hello AAFES Family,
THis is probably inappropriate and I hope you all will forgive me but this is the easiest way to reach as many of you as possible. Former Sports Store/PowerZone associate Janis (Woodall) Morales lost her father to a heart condition during her move from Anchorage to Las Vegas.
James Wilson from PowerZone
August 14, 2008
Wow, I really thought I had gotten over this. But upon reading Katie's comments and reflecting on some of the others I found myself shedding more tears. I guess you never know how someone has impacted your life until something profound occurs. Then I take a quick glance to the right of the screen and see where it says "This guest book is maintained by *FIENDS* and Family of Matt Kelly"!!! That gives me a chuckle. Especially since I'm the idiot who wroted it!!! To all my AAFES family I miss you all and it has been great reading your comments here. To those of you who have called me and e-mailed it has been awesome hearing from you!! I REALLY need to get back to Anchorage soon.
Katie Hoover
August 13, 2008
I am so sorry for your loss. I apologize that I only found out about Matt yesterday. I can still remember attending Matt and Jennifer's wedding. Working with Matt always made the work day more fun at the BX. He was always courtious and respectful. I can remember when I was pregnant with my first child, Matt was one of the few guys that I worked with that would carry my stuff to the car or help me when my battery was dead. I will miss him, god bless those he leaves behind.
James Wilson
July 7, 2008
I was thinking about Matt today as I find myself doing quite often. Any time there is a new video game or new gaming system about to release I find myself thinking about Matt and how long it will take him to get his hands on it. He was SOOO pissed when the PS2 came out and thought employees weren't gonna get a chance to get one. I mean let's face it, he was just a big kid. And I mean that in the kindest way possible. He had such a passion for electronics and gaming and music and snowboarding. I remember having a conversation with him at one point. We were talking about the pending birth of his first child with Jennifer and he said he was definitely going to make sure his kid (girl or boy) knew how to snowboard! And how if it was a girl he was gonna name her "Picaboo" just like the girl in the olympics! Many times we would compare notes on how stressed we got in Electronics at the BX because we would find ourselves alone on the floor being assaulted by customers!! Sometimes it would seem like you were the only one in the whole department. We had to take a pen and pad to the floor so we could take that mile long hike to the stockroom and get 6 different TV's. Then half of the customers would be gone when you got back!! Or when you needed a TV but you couldn't find a manager to drive the forklift to get it down fron the rafters!! I've got so much more. I'll miss him a lot!!!
Ric Hamel
July 6, 2008
This is not the note I expected to be writing today.
Over the weekend I found an older address book and decided to write lost friends. I should learn this lesson. In searching for Matt I found this. I am so sorry for your loss.
Matt and I worked together quite often when I was the Hitachi Rep for AAFES ALASKA. He made working with some of the more difficult managers a lot of fun. We got to know each other quite well.
I will miss him.
Krista Kelly
July 3, 2008
Matt leaves behind many great memories and stories. He is dearly missed and I'm looking forward to seeing him again someday. May God Bless you Marsha, Floyd, Mike, Jennifer, David, Aaron, and soon to be baby Matthew.
Michael Kelly
July 2, 2008
I miss my brother alot. He was an awesome big brother. I know the Lord is taking good care of him now but, I wish he was here. I feel so alone without my brother, as in, I'm the only child left of my family. In a way I feel like he was my twin, that half of me is gone. Alot of times I still can't believe he's gone. I just want him back!
I like to thank everyone that was able to make it to the hospital. My brother had so many awesome friends. It still touches me to this day just how many peoples lives he was a part of.
I know he is with all of us in our hearts and minds. I can't wait 'til that day I see him again. Just one of the good things that came out of this is, I am now taking better care of myself so I won't end up like my brother. I have a different perspective on life now. I realize that you need to live your life everyday as if it were your last. You just might not wake up one day.
I love you so much Matt! I am so proud to be your brother. My prayers go out to my mom and dad, Jennifer and David and Aaron. May God be with all of us.
Jennifer Kelly
June 16, 2008
I just wanted to write and say THANK YOU!
Thank you Matt, for being the best husband, father, and friend anyone could have!
Thank you to Marsha and Floyd for raising the most wondering person in the world! Also, for helping me and mine with everything!
Thank you Aunt Theresa for singing so beautifully! And helping out with everything!
Grandma for being there and everything you have done.
The rest of my family and friends for supporting me!
Thank you to all who wrote to and about Matt! And all those still going to write! Also those who want to write but cannot find the words.
But most of all Thank you to our LORD Jesus for taking Matt in your arms and welcoming him into heaven, also letting him have no more pain or sorrow. I know he is in a great place and I will see him again! Thank you God for giving me the most precious gifts my children, David and Matthew.
God bless everyone!
Kimberly Kuntz
June 12, 2008
I met Matt when I was about 8 years old, he kind of seemed like a big brother from the BX, I constantly would go in and buy new things for my cameras, anything from the actual camera to a new camera card and he was always there to give his advice on what would be the best one for what i was looking at doing. I remember going in last October and needing to buy a camera for my little sister when just a week before he had sold me a video camera and him asking 'what do you need?' and i said 'a camera!' and he replied, 'another one!!! you just bought one last week!' It still makes me laugh when I think about it. I'll always remember Matt being the one that helped me along my way in understanding what camera to use in photography and finding just the right one from using his own experience. He was there for anything....even when you were shopping, he'd come up and make sure you were alright because you had a sad look on your face, and if you needed to find him, you had NO problem with his projective voice (which is good because I would loose him sometimes in the store when he went to find something for me.) I'm going to miss Matt, alot.
I'm really sorry for your loss.
Charlotte Shelton
June 10, 2008
It has been a while since I've seen Matt and family but it doesn't wipe away the sadness of losing such a wonderful person. To Marsha and family May you lean on God in this time and allow him to heal you. To Matt may God bless you!
Christine Trevino
June 9, 2008
Matt is truly going to be missed! I have known Matt and his whole family for over six years, my heart goes out to them during this time. I know that something like this is never easy, reach out to God and he well help guide everyone through this horrible time. RIP Matt!
Sayuri Jackson
June 9, 2008
I worked with Matt several a long time ago at Central Check-Out, but years later, I find myself fighting tears. He always let me page him by name and would always be there. It's a silly thing to remember, but it mattered. Even after I came back to the BX just to chill, he was never too busy to say hi or help me find something. I can't imagine what the family is going through, but I hope the thought that people will remember Matt as kind soul will serve as a comfort, however small.
Theresa Rubey
June 9, 2008
My deepest sympathy to all of you. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Matt was a wonderful person and will be missed greatly.
Michelle Gillett
June 8, 2008
Matt was an excellent, caring individual. I had the pleasure of working with him for 3yrs. at the BX. My heart and prayers are with Matt's family. He will be greatly missed, and all the memories I have will remain in my heart. R.I.P. Matt, GOD Bless.
Brian Wemmerus
June 8, 2008
To Jennifer, Aaron, David and Matthew,
My deepest condolences are with you as you make it through this difficult time. Matt was a great friend and a warmhearted soul who brightened the room with his presence. He and I spent many days closing at Carrs or gaming the nights away a dozen years back, and I remember them all with great fondness. Our shared memories will keep Matt with us for all time. Love you man - -
Kellie Aylward
June 7, 2008
May God bless you and hold you all closely during this time of grieving! Much love!
Carol Gilmour
June 7, 2008
The memories shared at Matt's service yesterday made it absolutely wonderful. You could feel the love for Matt all thru the room. Though I do not have the years of history with Matt my husband Rob does, I did spend time with him and his family. I have heard hundreds of stories about the two over the years. Matt was a very good friend and a wonderful influence on his life. Matt was a funny and caring man, he will be missed for a very long time. Please take comfort in knowing he is in a better place and we will see him again someday. My prayers are with his parents and his wife.
Kari Czajkowski-Spaulding
June 7, 2008
Matt's memorial service was beautiful. Matt touched many people during his life and many of us learned a ton from him whether it was about electronics, snowboarding, photography or parenting. But the one thing everyone learned from Matt whether they knew him well or just in passing is to laugh and love. Matt's laughter and silly jokes could make anyone laugh and he would always do his best to make the best of a "bad" situation. With Matt around, being sad or upset wasn't and option, because Matt would make his day's mission to make you change your attitude. Matt had a very generous loud laugh and an even more generous heart. He'll be missed deeply, but never forgotten.
Renee' Badger
June 7, 2008
Kelly Family, My heart and prayers go out to you. Matt will be greatly missed. He was always there to cheer me up when I was having a bad day, there to help me out when I was in need of help at central checkout, and could put a smile on anyones face that had a frown. I am glad I was able to get to know Matt during the time I worked at AAFES.
Andria Mchou
June 7, 2008
Jennifer and children, Family, Parents, Brothers and Sisters, I am so sorry for the loss that you have felt. Please know that Matt was extremely well loved and will be sorely missed, but he is still with us in as much as he can be. May love be with you in your time of grieving and always remember that he is watching and cares for us all.
Gala Smythe
June 6, 2008
Matt and our son, Scott, were friends for years. I loved seeing Matt as he was one of those young men who always greeted adults with smiles and hellos. I loved his smile. Even though I hadn't seen him in several years, he was always special. I know Scott will miss him terribly. I am so thankful they were friends who touched each others lives. God Bless.
Jocelyn Johnson
June 6, 2008
To the Kelly Family:
My heart and thoughts go to you. Matt was an amazing man with the ability to make everyone around him laugh. He could lighten my mood on the worst of days and it was just so amusing working with him. I knew him for nearly ten years and he was always this way; a blessing to be around.
I will keep all of you in my thoughts.
Brenda Ovalle
June 6, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time. Marsha I remember talking to you about Matt while we were closing the store. I hired Matt and he was like one of my kids. He will truly be missed by all new and old AAFES Associates.
Home Depot 1302
June 6, 2008
We are sorry for your loss your extended family at Home Depot 1302
Carmen McNutt
June 6, 2008
my deepest sympothies to the family. When I lived in Anchorage I would often run into Matt at the BX and he always made my day with a nice smile and a hello. I did not know Matt all that well, but it just goes to show that the smallest things make all the difference in someones day.
Larry Taylor
June 6, 2008
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Tracy Brown
June 6, 2008
My heart, condolences and prayers go out to the Kelly Family. Memories of Matt-a co-worker, a friend-with his excited voice, uplifting spirit, and kind heart will always be cherished.
Sue Bowden
June 6, 2008
Our deepest sympathy. Matt was a great guy and a warm memory. We played many a game together and my daughter still remembers him fondly.
Mark & Pamela Neely
June 6, 2008
My deepest condolences to the Kelly family. Matt's great personality touched everyone around him. If there is snowboarding in heaven, I can see Matt now putting on his gear and ready to take the hill. Miss you buddy.
Randis Monroe
June 5, 2008
We always had fun working in the PZ together. I learned most of my electronics knowledge from Matt that I still use today. Matt was a great guy and will be greatly missed.
Bill Dennis
June 5, 2008
To Jennifer and the family, my deepest condolances. Matt you will be truly missed.
Carla Rasnake
June 5, 2008
Dearest Kelly Family, Our family has yours in our prayers and in our hearts. Matthew will always be remembered as such a kind, smart, caring person. He will truly be missed by so many people. I was lucky to work with him -both as a fellow employee, and as a customer-. He always had a smile and something nice to say about everyone. Such a great kid.
June 5, 2008
Our hearts and prayers go out to the entire Kelly Family during this most difficult time.
Mary and Jerry Maranitch
(aunt and uncle of Krista Kelly)
Stacey Miller
June 5, 2008
Matt was a great personality! He will be missed dearly.
Bill & Judy Glafke
June 5, 2008
We wish to extend our sincerest sympathy to Matthew's entire family. He will live in your hearts forever being loved very dearly. We love you very much Marsha & Floyd, our hearts go out to you both during this very difficult time.
James Wilson
June 5, 2008
Floyd, Marsha, Jennifer Kelly and AAFES family and friends, I pray that you all find comfort in each others company at this extremely difficult time. As the miles between us grow so does the bond that drew us so. I miss you all and think of you often.
It's the custom in my family to gather and tell humorous stories of the loved ones we've lost until the wee hours of the morning. I don't know how much space I have here but I know we will always remember Matt for how loud he got when he talked about something that excited him! He would get so mad when we told him he was too loud. And I KNOW that all of us that worked the floor with him will always remember that if there was snow in the forcast chances were slim to none that he was coming to work!!! But you have to love him for being passionate about something that he absolutely loved to do!!! When I was supervisor there, Ron Corona and I would give him a hard time. I'd say to him "Matt you know there's snow in the forecast for tonight. Am I gonna see you here tomorrow?" He would actually try to convince us that he would but we ALL knew it wasn't gonna happen.
I remember how he would play the latest snowboarding video on the tv wall and lock the DVD player so we couldn't take it out!!!
I hope this brings you a smile even as you shed a tear. I know it did for me...
Matt, brother, I will miss you DEARLY!!! You are one of a kind!!!
Denise & Dave Rickenbacher
June 5, 2008
Life is still a mystery. We are born on earth only to die, sometimes way sooner than one can imagine. Our hearts go out to Matthew's Mom and Dad, his wife Jennifer, children, family and friends. Always remember wonderful memories never die. It is the smiles from those memories that live forever. May God Bless and comfort your family at this time of sorrow.
Michelle Heffner
June 5, 2008
I just wanted to send my sympathy to the Kelly Family. Matt was great to work with, always able to bring a smile and laugh to someone who needed it. I enjoyed my time working with him.
Sandra Knight
June 5, 2008
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Bob Harrell
June 5, 2008
In his short trip here he brought laughter and love and inspired his friends. In his departure, he left love in his wake and brought a family together. I'll miss you, buddy. But, I will see ya again...
Janis & Steven Morales
June 5, 2008
Matt, I am really going to miss you. We had our good memories from the bx & electronics dept. You will always be remembered by lots of people, we will never forget you. My heart, thoughts & prayers go out to you & all of your family.
Stephanie Barnes
June 5, 2008
I love you, Matt Kelly. I will miss you more than words can say. No one could make days brighter than you. Rest in peace, my friend.
<3<3<3
Corinne DeRouin
June 5, 2008
Matthew helped my fiance and I pick out a TV a couple of weeks ago, and he was so wonderful to work with. This world has lost a very kind man, and our condolences go out to his family.
Olga Khann
June 5, 2008
To The Kelly's family, I Pray that God will give you all, the comfort and peace in your hearts in this moments of sadness. God Bless you
Cicely Harvey
June 5, 2008
It has been an honor knowing Matt. Our thoughs and Prayers are with the Kelly Family.
Miss Me, But Let Me Go
Author Unknown
"When I come to the end of the road,
and the sun has set for me.
I want no rites in a gloom-filled room.
Why cry for a soul set free?
Miss me a little—but not too long,
and not with your head bowed low.
Remember the love that was once shared.
Miss me, but let me go.
For this is a journey we all must take, and each must go alone.
It’s all a part of the master’s plan, a step on the road to home.
When you are lonely and sick of heart, go to the friends we know.
Bear your sorrow in good deeds. Miss me, but let me go."
Sandy Crisel
June 5, 2008
I know the heart ache the Kelly family must be feeling now, our prayers are with you all. I have known Matt for a very long time, as he went to school with my daughter. Everytime I saw Matt he was quick to show me pictures of us children, he loved them dearly. My condolences to all of Matt's family and friends.
Susie Brown
June 5, 2008
To the whole family, I am so sorry for your loss. Matt was a very special soul, although I didn't know him as well as others, I know what a huge impact he has had on Scott & everyone he came into contact with. I will miss his huge, boisterous laugh most of all. My thoughts are with you all....
Jeff Norris
June 5, 2008
My deepest sympathy goes out to the Kelly family. You are in my heart and prayers. It was a pleasure to work around Matt. Though I only knew him for a few years he will be greatly missed. I can't imagine visiting the electronics department and not seeing him there. God be with you Matt!
Shelley Strauss
June 5, 2008
"Words..
however kind..
can't mend your heartache..
but those who care..
and share your loss wish you..
comfort and peace of mind..
May you find strength..
in the love of family..
and in the warm embrace..
of friends.."
I'm deeply sorry to hear about Matts passing. He was a wonderful friend, and touched the lives of many. I was one of the fortunate, to have Matt as a friend. My heart breaks to hear that he has moved on. My heartfelt condolences go to Jennifer, their children, parents and the rest of Matt's family.
Helen wilson
June 4, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Geraldine Moreland
June 4, 2008
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Shylo Seaman
June 4, 2008
You will be greatly missed Matt!
Robin Duclos
June 4, 2008
I wanted to send my sympathay's to the whole Kelly family. I enjoyed the time I got to work with Matt at the Base Exchange and feel honored that I was envited to his wedding to Jennifer. I will miss his laughter and his boisterous voice.
Showing 1 - 58 of 58 results
Make a Donation
in Matthew Kelly's name
Memorial Events
for Matthew Kelly
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.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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 Kelly's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
