Search by Name

Search by Name

Matthew Butler Obituary

Matthew A. Butler Aug. 6, 1990~June 28, 2009 Resident of Antioch Matthew Arnold Butler was born in Walnut Creek, CA, on Aug. 6, 1990. Matthew lived, attended schools and grew up in Antioch, CA, all of his life. Throughout the years, he enjoyed music, video games, boating at Lake Berryessa, camping in the Sierras, snowboarding, skate- boarding and skydiving. He graduated from Deer Valley High School in June 2008, where he was a member of the Deer Valley Marching Band. Matthew just completed his first year of college at Los Medanos College in Pittsburg, while working for Starbucks in Antioch. Matthew was also a member of Boy Scout Troop and Crew 153, and was previously a staff member at Camp Wolfeboro. Matthew was confirmed at St. John's Lutheran Church in Antioch. A vigil held near Williamson Ranch Park, over 300 of his friends were in attendance. His MySpace page also shows hundreds of his friends! Matthew was loved and respected by everyone he met. Matthew is survived by his parents, Wayne and Eileen Butler of Antioch; and three other brothers, Michael Butler, Evan Butler and Trevor Butler. Matthew also considered Kathy Butler of Antioch as a second mom, who helped raise him. His grandparents, Arnold and Betty Jo Blumhardt live in North Highlands, CA. Matthew also has four aunts, Diane Goucher of Modesto, Charmaine Murphy of Groveland, Tricia Blumhardt of Leucadia, and Lynette Blumhardt of Sacramento. His uncles include Frank Butorovich of Hayward and Arnold Blum- hardt II of Citrus Heights. Funeral Services will be held Friday, July 3, 2009 at St. John's Lutheran Church, 1360 East Tregallas Road, Antioch, CA. Viewing will begin at 10am, with church services starting at 11am. Matthew will be buried at Oak View Memorial Park, 2500 East 18th Street in Antioch. All family and friends are welcome. A trust fund has been established with Wells Fargo Bank by his friends. Donations may be made to the trust fund, No. 3293281212, at any branch. Donations to the Mount Diablo Council, Boy Scouts of America, or St. John's Lutheran Church, in the name of Matthew Butler, would also be appreciated by the family.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Contra Costa Times on Jul. 2, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Butler

Not sure what to say?





Jason Batoog

July 30, 2014

We all miss you man. I was just across the street when this whole thing happened, and I didn't even know it was you until July 4th; when I ran into an old friend who told me where she had just come from.. I've been hating myself for years because of that. I just wanted to say, I'm sorry I didn't make it.. I would have if I'd known. The family still misses you. I know it's not until the 6th, but happy birthday man.

Butler's

April 1, 2011

Our son, we miss you and think of you every day. You will forever be in our hearts. Your love of life live on forever in us and all your friends. We love you Mom, Dad, Trevor, Mike and Evan

Garden of Peace

Mom

March 29, 2011

Kimberly Gasaway

March 28, 2011

Kathy, Michael, and Evan...praying for you all as you go through this loss.

August 9, 2010

I miss you every day, Matt. You were a great kid. Keep watching down on us. Love you like you were my own flesh and blood, brosef. <3

LindseyNicole

July 19, 2010

I remember all the fun times you and I have had in elementary school. Us and the "crew," we were a big group of best friends, like you'd see in the movies. I always thought we'd grow-up together and conquer all things with each other near by. Now look at us. I still cannot believe you're gone, Matt. This is one thing that's never going to leave my mind. Crazy how I was trying to find you on facebook, and got the news from Shane once I told him I saw you at the skatepark a few years ago. You were one of the most amazing people I've ever met. You will forever be in mine and many others hearts. We miss you so much. Glad you're in a safer place now<3

October 20, 2009

rip matt

Mom

October 17, 2009

My precious Matthew, All you wanted to do was grow taller. Now you are way above us all. I love you and miss you every single day of my life.

Samantha Canha

August 28, 2009

Its been two months today Matt. :( We miss you more and more everyday. Keep looking down on us with that contagious smile. We love you!

Stacie Long

August 6, 2009

Matt,

You were a big influence in my daughter Megan's life. You taught her how to live and laugh and cry. She loved you like a little brother. Thank you for sharing your life with us. Happy 19th Birthday. We miss and love you.

Eric Brown

August 5, 2009

matthew butler,
you were the best kid i knew. i only knew you for about 4 years but in that short time we bacame pretty close.. im sorry you had to go through that and my thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Megan Long

August 4, 2009

Matthew Arnold Butler
I feel so much but I don’t know if I will fully be able to express how much he meant to me. Even though I was older then him, he taught me how to live. He truly was wiser beyond his years and I am so thankful for the time we shared together. Matt reminds me of the poem The Dash by Linda Ellis.
…But he said what mattered most of all was the dash between those years…And now only those who loved her know what that little line is worth…
I hope one day I will be able to say I lived my life the way Matthew did, to the fullest with no regrets.

Amanda Murphy

July 17, 2009

Eileen and Wayne, this breaks my heart. I'm so sorry for your loss. I just saw this today and I'm devastated. I'll hold on to my memories of the cub scouts and the joy I found in Matthew.

Karla Salomon

July 17, 2009

Eileen and Wayne,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I am overcome with the pain you must feel. No words can ever give comfort to this kind or grieving but do know that we are all here to help you remember the joy and love he brought to your life and many many others.
Karla Salomon, Mike Austin, Matt Austin and Harrison Salomon

July 10, 2009

Wayne and Eileen and family,
I cannot imagine losing a child. My condolences and prayers are with you. Prayers, Lynn Edinger

carol peck

July 8, 2009

Dear Eileen
I just found out about Matthew passing, We are so sorry for your loss. I remember seeing matthew and nikki sitting together watching goosebump at kathys house. He was such a good and happy boy. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
carol and nikki cotter

R.i.p Matt Butler

July 8, 2009

This is a very sad passing of such an amazing kid.I cant even imagine the pain your family is going through, but my prayers & thoughts are with your family.But remember Matt's watching over us, so we have to stay strong for him.

July 8, 2009

Matt. No words can describe the hurt that everyone is feeling. We lost you too soon. We want you here, but obviously God has a bigger plan for you. He needs you up there, to watch out for all of us. I wish there was something that I could say to your family to help heal this hurt, but there isn't. Make sure every night, you go to them in their sleep and let them know you made it safely and you aren't hurting. We all love you so much Matt. Wish we could all see you again.

July 7, 2009

Dear Eileen, Wayne, and family,

We are so very sorry to hear about Matthew. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
May God bless and comfort you.

Janet Heiney, Bobby Heiney DV 2005, and Jessica (Heiney) Enriquez DV 2007

savannah bas

July 7, 2009

Im so sorry to here what happend it seems like just yeasterday we were all kids and he was running around with my two brothers Isaac and Jason playing army men in the durt pile on the side of our house. My prayers go out to you all. I know he is watching over us now.

Mel Pate

July 6, 2009

I am so sorry for your loss. Matt was great guy. He was in Marching Band with my daughter,they went to Winterball together in 2006, they went snowboarding and camping together.They planned on going parasailing together at Lake Tahoe in a few weeks.I didnt know him maybe as well as I should have but I did know this, he loved my little girl. He treated her like gold. He would have done anything for her. As a father that means everything knowing a young man is treating your girl with respect.He was a great guy. I will continue to pray for your family that someday God will ease all of our pain.

Jim Nichols

July 6, 2009

Wayne, I am so sorry for your loss, our prayers are with you and your family

Tami Harrison

July 6, 2009

Dear Wayne, Eileen, Trevor, Evan and Michael,

No one can know just what you.ve lost;
No one can undetrstand the cost;
But when you feel your energy drain;
Please count on us to help ease your pain.

Let us help you cope with grief;
We hope with time you'll find relief.
We can't replace the one who's gone,
But let our concern help you carry on.

We enjoyed the time we shared with Matthew through Troop 153 and will miss his adventuresome spirit. We share your grief at this unimagineable loss and are ready to help you in any way we can.

With love,
Tami, James, Jordan and Jared

Linda Edwards-LoGrasso

July 6, 2009

Dear Wayne & Eileen;

Words cannot express the deep Sympathy I send to you for the loss of your dear Son, Matthew. This, indeed, is every parent's worst nightmare. I experienced this when my parent's lost their daughter, my Sister. Please know that many prayers are being said on your behalf right now. We will pray for your peace, strength and family Love to be strong. May God Bless each of you.

Sincerely,

Mary Langlois

July 6, 2009

To the Butler Family, We heard of Matt's shooting after his memorial. We are deeply saddened about his passing. May you draw strength from one another as you cherish Matt's memorize for all he brought to you and your family, and to this world. Our prayers are with all of you in this difficult time in your lives. Dave, Mary, Bruce Brian and Amanda Langlois

Carol Laituri

July 6, 2009

To the Butler Family,
May God's grace surround and comfort you during these very difficult times. Please know that your entire St. John's family have our arms around you
and send you comforting thoughts.
Mike and Carol Laituri
Mindy Laituri-Godfrey and Bryan Godfrey
Michael and Brie Laituri

Brita Bleuel

July 6, 2009

We were out of town and only recently heard about Matt, we are so sorry for your loss and our prayers and thoughts will be with you for years to come. Matt will be greatly missed and our hope is that as time passes the joy he brought to everyone's life will give you strength. May God's grace sustain you during this difficult time - Brita Bleuel & Hollis Cooksey (St. John's)

aric bauer

July 5, 2009

dear family of Matt,
i myself did not know him but speaking for all the camp wolfeboro staff and boy scouts in general,
we pray to your loss

Jeremiah Simpson

July 5, 2009

R.I.P. Matt

Julie

July 5, 2009

I am in shock! I just found out that the death I heard about last week was my Starbuck's pal Matt.......I cannot tell you how much his sense of humor and smile will be missed. I know it will hit me again in August when we return to school and I am stopping in every morning- it just will not be the same. My prayers for comfort and peace are with you, I know God has him close.

Jill Lezer

July 5, 2009

dear Butler family,
i did not no matt but my friend did it is so sad what happen to him. i am so sorry for your life. look on the bright side matt is up in heaven with god now watching over you all the time. i am a dv student i just graduate this year. i know what your going thourg beacuse a girl in my class died to my freshmen year. so i know how hard it can be. i also know how hard it would be to lose a loved one because i lost my grandma last yeardue to a long illiness. i am here for you if you want to talk to me or just say hi. matt will be missed by many im sure. R.I.P matt butler Love Jill Lezer

Marialaina Batoog

July 4, 2009

Dear Everyone In the Butler Family,

We just found out a few moments ago about Matt. Matt was a very big part of our children'e early years. Matt, Jason, Isaac, and Vinnie. Watching those four boys brings back nothing, but great times.

We loved Matt as our own son. He was a wonderful person. The world lost someone very special.

Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Love and Prayers,
Marialaina and Michael Batoog

Patty Kruger

July 4, 2009

Dear Butler Family
You don't know me, but you do know my husband and daughter Sid and Michaela Kruger from church. Our deepest sympathies go out to you and your family at this time. Michaela considered Matt a true friend and will truly miss talking to him on myspace.
I heard a lot about Matt and he sounded like a wonderful boy. I think Michaela went to church just as much to see if Matt would show up as she did because she liked church. I remember they usually talked on Saturday nights and she would talk him in to going to church and then when she would come home on Sunday from church I would ask her "Was Matt there" If he wasn't we would all laugh and say "That's Matt". I remember one time he texted her as we were going to a volleyball tournament asking where she was because he was sitting in church and she wasn't there. We all had a good laugh over that one. She told me this week that Matt was the first person she told that she wanted to be a pastor and that although he was surprised he understood and didn't make fun of her over that. Matt was truly a great friend to her and I thank you for raising a great son and Matt for being a great friend to my daughter. Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this time and we will remember you and Matt forever.

Steffani Mercer

July 4, 2009

I struggled a bit with writing this because I cannot imagine the magnitude of your loss. It hardly seems enough to say Matt is loved and will be missed. My fondest memory of Matt is when he saw our grandson Aaron for the very first time, his face reflected the awe and wonder of his nephew... he was even more excited to hold him for the first time.

His kindness was only overshadowed by his loving and gentle nature.

My thoughts and prayers are with his family and all those who have been touched by Matt.

Steffani Mercer

Maija Ellis

July 3, 2009

Butler Family,

We are shocked and saddened to learn of Matt's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Although it's been almost 5 years since we've attended St. John's, we remember Matt as a sweet, happy boy. Our hearts go out to you.

God Bless,
Maija & Alissa Ellis & Carmen Conkel

Maija Ellis

July 3, 2009

Butler family,

We were shocked and saddened to here about Matt's passing. Although it's been almost 5 years since we've attended St. John's, we remember Matt as a sweet, happy kid. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

God bless,
Maija & Alissa Ellis & Carmen Conkel

Stephanie Burke

July 3, 2009

I'll never forget Matt. Listening to Pepper and Sublime will never be the same. . I pray that somehow he knows how much he will be loved and missed. My love goes out to the rest of the friends and family mourning this horrible loss. -

Tom McGruder

July 3, 2009

My family and I are very sorry for your loss. I can honestly say that Matt was a good humored, nice young man. He was great friends with my step-son and was at our house a lot. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you.

Stacy and Aaron Walrath

July 3, 2009

Our thoughts are with you and your family.

Janet Wyatt

July 3, 2009

May God's peace hold you up with his love and give you comfort in all the wonderful memories of Matt.

Dale, Sally & Anastasia

July 3, 2009

Eileen, Wayne and Family,
Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you.

Nicole Scola

July 3, 2009

my thoughts and prayers go out to your family. mike Evan Trevor and Matt have always felt like brothers to me. it just seems like Matt and my little brother were playing together at the beach here in Florida when he came and visited... i am so sorry for your loss matt was a loved young man!

July 2, 2009

We met you briefly at our great nices's wedding (RayeLeeAnn )and also at Danielle's. We are so sorry for your loss and our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God give comfort and peace.
Sharon & Ed Cherry (CHP Ret.3831)
Oroville, CA

Jude and Erika Pierotti

July 2, 2009

Eileen, Wayne and Family,

We cannot imagine what you are going through at this moment and words are just not enough to express how saddened we are with Matthews passing, Our heart and prayers are with you.

Steve Loyd

July 2, 2009

We're so very sorry your loss. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Steve & Cyndy Loyd and family

Marilyn & Hal Norman

July 2, 2009

We just want you to know our love & prayers are with you all.

Maurice & Bobbie Crossland

July 2, 2009

We only see a little of the ocean,
A few miles distance from the rocky shore;
But oh! out there beyond - beyond the eyes' horizon
There's more - there's more.

We only see a little of God's loving,
A few rich treasures from His mighty store;
But oh! out there beyond - beyond our life's horizon
There's more - there's more.

Thinking of you, knowing that God's love will bring peace to comfort your sorrow.


P.S. Although it has been awhile since I last saw Matthew, I will always remember the year he was my only Sunday School student...it was tough on Matthew, but we got through it

Sally Calisesi

July 2, 2009

Eileen and family -
I can't believe Matt is no longer with us. I have fond memories of seeing Matt at church and talking with him. He was a remarkable young man - always personable and pleasant.
God's peace,

Lori O

July 2, 2009

Eileen words are insufficient but just so you know we are here for you and are grieving with you.
Here is a poem for you and your family:

Miss me, but let me go

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 we once shared

Miss me - but let me go

For this is a journey that we must all 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 you know
And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds

Miss me - but let me go

Tami LaFleur-Rachwal

July 2, 2009

My heartaches for all of you there are no words to express the sadness. Matthew brought joy and laughter to so many people throughout his short life hold those memories close in your heart. Find comfort and peace in Gods Love. My prayers are with you All... Much Love To You

Ashley Walrath Skoro

July 2, 2009

Wayne, Eileen, Michael, Evan and Trevor

I am so deeply sorry for your loss. You are all in my heart and and in my prayers.

Cheryl Wight

July 2, 2009

Dear Eileen, Wayne, & Trevor,
I know how proud you are of Matthew and your deep love of him. I pray for God to bless you and comfort your pain. Please know we are here for you.
Love, Cheryl

Kiersten LaFleur

July 2, 2009

I remember Matthew as a sweet, always smiling little boy. I know he is deeply loved and missed by all. I am so sorry for your loss, for the boys, for the family. May God be with you all in this time of need, and may Matthew be your angel to watch over you.

MARILYN DEVENGENZO

July 2, 2009

Dear Eileen and Family,

I feel so helpless. I can only send my prayers and condolences to you, but prayers do bring strength and guidance. I truly wish I could do more. The loss of your precious son must be so unbearable. No parent should ever endure this pain.

Please focus on your loving, wonderful memories to help give you comfort and the strength to continue on for yourself and remaining family. members.

alicia johnson

July 2, 2009

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 1998-2009

Lisa & Mike Wilder

July 2, 2009

Eileen and Family -

Words seem so shallow at a time like this. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Christina

July 2, 2009

Matt you will be missed, we heard on Monday morning from your co-workers at Starbucks. Our prayers go out to your family.

Joe & Christina- Antioch

Jordan Harrison

July 1, 2009

Matt,
I miss u.
you were funny, brave and made people laugh. Now you can watch people from where you are at now.

Jordan Harrison

July 1, 2009

Wayne, Elieen & Family,
Sorry your lost.
Now you have someone watch over you all.

July 1, 2009

Wayne & Eileen-
I was so saddened to hear of this terrible loss, and I want you to know your entire family is in my prayers.

Words offer such inadequate comfort...but I hope that one day you will find a place of peace and comfort in your precious memories of Matthew.

Michelle Walker

Shannon Lothringer

July 1, 2009

Matt im going to miss you so much! i Still cannot beileve it. And i dont want to. You and my brother were great friends, and im going to miss your always happy, smiling self in my house. And summer was so fun last year, thanks for the great time, and memories from six flags i will never forget them (: And i remember everytime you came over you would watch the olympics, and we laughed about it. haha im going to miss you Matt!

Dear Butler family,
Matt was amazing and made my life happy when he came around. He was such a great person, who had his life going. He was such a polite person, you raised him very well. And i liked him so much, and he would wash his own dishes at my house all the time. Im sad to see him gone, but i will never forget him. and he is in a much better place now.

Kevin Taylor

July 1, 2009

Matt was one of my good friends, he will surely be missed by me and all that knew him. I will cherish the fond memories that I have of him. He certainly did not deserve this. May God guide you and give you strength during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

July 1, 2009

Butler family,
The memories we have of Matt through scouts are all fun-filled.
Our hearts ache for and with you.

The Potter Family

lori taylor

July 1, 2009

Matty will be miised dearly by me and everyone. Everytime I saw his bright smile it lit up my spirits.When I would come into Starbucks feeling down and out Matty always knew how to brighten up my day with hid laugh and his quarky little sayings.

Maris Bennett

July 1, 2009

I work at Deer Valley High School and knew Matt. He was a sweetheart, and I am shocked and saddened about his loss.
Please accept my deepest, heartfelt condolences.
My daughter, who is currently traveling, knew him also and texted me that she "still can't believe he's gone."

Noel & Lisa Looney

July 1, 2009

Eileen, Wayne & Trevor ~
Our prayers are with all of you. Please find strength and comfort in the Lord during this most difficult loss. Please if you need anything at all, we are here.

July 1, 2009

Dear Eileen, Wayne and family,
We cannot begin to express our sympathy in the loss of such a beautiful person. We are at a total loss of words to try to comfort you. Please accept our sincere love and sorrow in the loss of Matthew.
Bill & Maude Dean Hunt

Jim & Jean Newcomb

July 1, 2009

Wayne, Eileen and family. While we are far away, we have always kept up with everyone in the Boy Scout Troop. When word came out about Matt, we were so shocked, and feel for you. We remember Matt on those family outings with the Boy Scout Troop. Our thoughts and prayers are with you!

Kim McGruder

July 1, 2009

Dear Butler Family,
I knew Matt because my son Robert Lothringer and him were good friends. He had been to our home many times, and was always polite and happy. We are all very sad, and so sorry for your and our loss. We will miss Matt very much. He was a great kid

Jeremy Canha

July 1, 2009

I came to know Matt towards the end of high school and had already known your other son Trevor since middle school, both are outstanding people. I didn't know Matt as well as others but we shared a lot of the same friends, which he had many of. Me and my fellow Marines of 3rd battalion 3rd Marine Regiment here in Iraq have your family in our prayers, minds and hearts.

June 30, 2009

Dear Wayne, Eileen and family, I am very sorry to learn of your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Paul Wolowic

Kathy

June 30, 2009

I first met Matt when my daughter was in middle school and remember him as always making people smile. I saw him a few times when he went to Deer Valley and was still making people laugh. My kids knew him well and he will be missed. My prays are with you and your family.

Stacey Tucker

June 30, 2009

The Butler Family,

You son was one of the most amazing person i have met. He went to school with me and hung out with all of us everyday at lunch. Matt will be missed forever and we will never forget his smile, his personality, and his life. He has touched so many of us. I was at the candle light service last night and will be at the service on Friday. I am truly sorry for your loss. My prayers are with your family.

Ashley Jacobson

June 30, 2009

Matt,
Today i heard the news about you and i was in total and complete shock ... i kept telling myself it couldnt be true and that something like this wouldnt happen to such an amazing person like you. It feels like just yesterday you were stealing my keys to drive my car around the deer valley parking lot.....i cant help but laugh everytime i think of that... i always had fun going to starbucks to talk to you. i dont know if ill ever be able to walk into that starbucks and not cry.
im sad that i didnt get a chance to tell you goodbye....i'll miss you forever.
my prayers are with your family!!

R.I.P

Jim & Diane Yribarren

June 30, 2009

Wayne and Family,
We were so sorry to hear about the loss of your son. Our condolences and prayers are with all of you.

June 30, 2009

I have learned of the untimely death of Matthew from a note posted on-line by his grandparents, Arnie and Betty. I did not know Matthew personally but share the sharp pain of this tragic loss even from this distance. As a member of the grandparent's church-family, I too want to express my sadness for the death of this young man and support for his immediate and extended family members during this time of grief.

Darrell Broaddus

June 30, 2009

I have learned of the untimely death of Matthew from a note posted on-line by his grandparents, Arnie and Betty. I did not know Matthew personally but share the sharp pain of this tragic loss even from this distance. As a member of the grandparent's church-family, I too want to express my sadness for the death of this young man and support for his immediate and extended family members during this time of grief.

Angel Cruse

June 30, 2009

We little knew that morning, that God was going to call your name. In life we loved you dearly, In death we do the same. It broke our hearts to loose you, you did not go alone; for part of us went with you, the day God called you home. You left us peaceful memories, your love is still our guide; and though we cannot see you, you are always at our side. Your family cain was broken, and nothing seems the same; but as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again.
Matty was a wonderful young man!! He will be missed greatly!! I hope this poem will help The Butler Family in their greatest time of need. With all of our love!!
The Angel's

Nicole M

June 30, 2009

Whether or not we knew Matt doesn't matter so much as the fact that he didn't deserve to die and especially not that way. I did not personally know Matt but I know some of his friends and he seems like he was a wonderful young man. He will always be loved and missed. I'm sure Matt will always be watching over you as your guardian angel. I truly am sorry for your lose.

David and Evan Martin

June 30, 2009

To the Butler Family,
We only knew Matt through the OA group in our district but always considered him to be a fine young man. We are deeply grieved at your loss and offer our heartfelt prayers for your healing. God Bless you all from us and Troop 450.

Laura Barros

June 30, 2009

Uncle Wayne, Eileen, Michael, Evan and Trevor...

Our family is deeply saddened by your loss, that a tragedy like this has happened to your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Let us know if there is anything we can do to help you get through this difficult time. May God Bless Matthew, and keep you all strong.

Love,
Your niece Laura, Tom, Ashley and Allison.

TONYA

June 30, 2009

THOUGH I DO NOT KNOW YOUR FAMILY JUST THE TRAGIC STORY THAT HAPPENED. MY THOUGHT'S AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU. I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS

Danielle Flowers

June 30, 2009

Matt was an amazing young man. He touched every ones life. He will never be forgotten.

Billie Chandler

June 30, 2009

To the Butler family,
We are so sorry for what you must be going through. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We hope you are able to find some relief from your heart ache. God bless you!
The Chandler/Cudney family.

June 30, 2009

To the Bultler Families,
There are no words to express the sorrow that fills our hearts and home on this day.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to each of you.
With much love and affection-Angie, Jon, James, Nathan, Jessica and Kenny Deurloo
Guerneville Ca

Raquel Cruz

June 30, 2009

To the Butler family, I'm very sorry for your loss. I didnt get to know Matt that well but from what I got during our conversations at his work when I was sent there with 20drink orders he was an amazing person. He knew how to make me smile and brighten anyones day. He will me missed greatly.

June 30, 2009

My deapest sympothy for you Eileen and your family. I will pray for you that you may soon find comfort through such a hard time. May Jesus be with you and your family. With caring thoughts, Virginia Navarrette from the Bank of ECC., Brentwood CA

Gail Sasser

June 30, 2009

Wayne, Eileen and family,

Marc and I are so sad for you and your family. The love of a child will never end but his presence will be missed.

He has sent me to bind up the
brokenhearted...
to comfort all who mourn, and
provide for those who grieve...
Isiah 61:1-3

The Sasser's

D-tree/dimitri hpokins

June 30, 2009

Dear Butler family,
matt was a good friend to all the people at the skatepark.he would be the person to look at when your feeling down.were all gunna miss him and may he rest in peace.

Joshua Lopez

June 30, 2009

dear butler family ,
i am deeply sorry for your loss . matt was a great guy . he loved to have fun at the skatepark and makes us laugh when it would be quiet . matt always liked to do what he wanted to . he was an amazing guy that i will always remember in my heart . your family , and Matthew will be in my prayers . I'm so sorry this dark time has come into all of our lives . We all loved Matt ... I'm really gunna miss him . i will see you this friday .

With Sincere Love,
Joshua Lopez

Vincie Zaccone

June 30, 2009

Wayne and Eileen and family, I am with you in spirit, and am deeply sorrow for your loss.

Love,
Vincie

June 30, 2009

Wayne, Eileen and family, we are sending prayers for you all. I/we are still in shock about Matthew's passing. We are so so sorry that this has happened. We love you very much. Our hearts are with you and Matthew.
Love Carl, Janis and Christopher Ortega

DACER\JESSE OLIVAREZ

June 30, 2009

MATT WAS A VERY GEWD KID
HE HAD A GEWD HEAD ON HIS SHORLDER
HE WAS ALWAYS IN THE RIGHT STATE OF MIND ..
ITS SAD 2 SEE ONE OF MY FRIENDS HAD 2 PASS....
HE DID WAT HE NEEDED TO DO 2 BE A SUCCESFULL ADULT
BUT AS LONG AS INEW MATT HE ACTED MORE OF AN ADULT B4 HE WAS 18 ....
AND TO HIS FAMILY I AM DEEPLY SORRY 4 YOUR LOSS OF MATT...

Tiffany Jackson

June 30, 2009

I have not seen Matt in years, but we went to church together. my brother Jay Jackson and myself Tiffany Jackson, were in St. John Lutheran's Confirmation class with him. he was such a class clown. always had a smile on his face. he was always making us laugh and smile too. he was so full of life!! i am so so so sorry that this happened to your son. i'm not sure if you guys remember my brother and i, but we remember you. i will keep Matt and his family in my thoughts and prayers. and may God be with you and help heal your broken hearts.

RIP MATTHEW!

xoxo

MATHEWS VIGIAL

June 30, 2009

RIP Matthew Butler

June 30, 2009

you will be missed

June 30, 2009

Dara Stallcup

June 30, 2009

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May God Bless you all at this difficult time. My son Nick will miss his dear friend. Words can not express the sympathy that goes out to your family.

Al Wolden

June 30, 2009

Dear Butler family,
We are so sorry for your loss.


Al and Tonya Wolden

Gary & Cindy Gilbert

June 30, 2009

May God comfort your family during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Showing 1 - 100 of 142 results

Make a Donation
in Matthew Butler's name

Memorial Events
for Matthew Butler

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

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
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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 more
Resources 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
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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 more
Ways to honor Matthew Butler's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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