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MADISON MATULA Obituary

MADISON RILEY MATULA was granted her angel wings on August 5, 2010 after a valiant fight against brain cancer.Her final days were spent surrounded by family and friends that Madi had touched in some small way, throughout her short, yet very memorable life.Known by family and friends as "Madi", she was born October 13, 2001 in Houston, TX. From the day she was born, Madi had a passion for life. She loved the water and took advantage of every chance she had to go swimming. She was a talented athlete who loved dance, gymnastics, snow skiing, horseback riding and soccer. Madi also had a creative side where she loved doing art and craft projects which she would in turn give to family members and friends as gifts. Being the proud owner of 3 dogs, 4 cats, 2 chinchillas and fish, she loved animals and was planning on being a veterinarian when she grew up. She had an infectious smile and always loved to play a good practical joke. She was a student at Bess Campbell Elementary in Sugar Land, TX, where she was a good student and loved spending time with her friends and faculty. But most of all, she loved being with her family and friends; Nothing brought her more joy, happiness and strength than being close to the ones she loved.Madi's life would seem too short by many, but for those who were touched by her, understood that the quality of life far exceeds quantity of time in which you live it. Her beautiful smile could melt the hearts of those around her and though she never spoke a word, her voice and thoughts could always be heard.Although Madi's illness made her appear frail, she possessed amazing strength and perseverance throughout her illness. With her courage she led us to believe that each day is a blessing and an opportunity to create lasting memories.With Madi's passing we remind others that her life is one to be celebrated, although we will miss her everyday, especially her smile, she will always remain forever in our hearts. Through her teachings about life, we were able to create wonderful memories and it has been a privilege to be her parents.Madi leaves behind many wonderful caregivers that provided love and support that enhanced her quality of life. Madi's love extends to her wonderful doctor's, nurses and caregivers. All of these special people, too numerous to mention, provided Madi with love and dignity in her life and also in her death.Madi is survived by her loving parents, Kelli and Kenny Matula; Grandparents Darlene and Allen Carlson; Grandmother Kathleen O'Brien; Aunt Rebecca Nelson; Aunt Erin Simper; Uncle Kevin Simper; Cousins Chandler and Travis Simper; and countless loving relatives and friends.We will be celebrating Madi's life with a visitation on Monday, August 9, 2010 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, 13001 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX. Funeral Services are planned for 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 625 Nottingham Oaks Trail, Houston, TX. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made on behalf of Madison to the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation (www.runfortherose.com), a foundation supporting brain cancer research at MD Anderson and Memorial Children's Hospital.

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

Published by Houston Chronicle on Aug. 8, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for MADISON MATULA

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Bobby Carr

August 27, 2010

I have never seen a child who had as much love for life as Madison. My Madison and her were two peas in a pod. They thought they were little DIVAS, and they ruled the world. We will miss her deeply and we love you guys so much. Please call and know that all of you are in our prayers. And most of all we know that miss Matula is watching over all of us. Probably laughing as we fumble through life.... We are truly blessed to have known her and loved her


The Carrs

Charis Christy

August 19, 2010

I was a friend of Madi's at school. She was really kind, and I loved her smile. Madi will always be in my heart, and I will treasure my memories of her.

I will pray for your family.

Jennifer Miller Grentz

August 19, 2010

My thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to the family.
Love & Hugs

Jennifer Miller Grentz

August 19, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Love & Hugs,
Jennifer Miller Grentz

Joyce Comegys

August 13, 2010

What a blessing it must have been to have known such a beautiful little girl. My prayers and condolences are with you and your family.
Joyce D. Comegys ( Baltimore, Maryland )

Simper Family

August 12, 2010

Take comfort in knowing that Madi is now a special angel to watch over everyone! We love you!

Madi & Courtney

Laurie Stewart

August 11, 2010

Kelli, Kenny & Aunt Becky,

You guys will remain in our prayers and memories of Madi will never be lost by those of us who knew her.

The ceremony yesterday was gorgeous and I am sure Madi was looking down upon all of us with a big smile!

We know that she is in a better place now and is at peace.

God bless you guys - Love, Gary, Laurie, Cody, Cory and Courtney Stewart

Lynn Meyer

August 11, 2010

Dear Kenny, Kelli and family - though I never met her, I have heard so many wonderful things about your beautiful girl. Your photo gallery was stunning and brought tears to my eyes. My heart breaks for you in your time of grief. Such a precious gift you had in Madi. She is now your guardian angel. I hope that your many wonderful memories of her will sustain you in the years ahead. I am so sorry for your loss. My very fondest regards,

Coco Bland

August 11, 2010

Kelli and Kenny,

I am so saddened to hear about the loss of Madi. She was a beautiful girl and you both gave her a beautiful life. She lived a lot of life in those few short years, please take comfort in the wonderful job you did as parents. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this awful time in your life. We love you guys - Coco and Bill Bland

The Sipes Family

August 10, 2010

Dear Matula Family,

You are all in our thoughts and prayers as you travel this difficult journey. May GOD continue to wrap you in HIS loving arms and comfort you while peace replaces your sorrow.
Love, Randy, Kelly, Savannah & Ashley Sipes

Dawn Pounders

August 10, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this very difficult time. Madi and her beautiful smile will be missed by all. She was a fighter and she will continue to touch everyones lives... The Pounders family

Marnie Konrad

August 10, 2010

We are so saddened to learn about Sweet Madison's passing.Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Madison's life and strength during her illness has had a profound impact on so many. She is and always will be a true inspiration. Thank you for sharing her with us all.

Tyra Damm

August 10, 2010

Many prayers of healing and peace for you all from the Damm family.

Sandra Soliz

August 10, 2010

One of my first introductions to Madi was listening to Kenny's story about Madi's awesome soccer skills (I think she was 4), and her equally excellent talents as a prima ballerina! The sparkle in his eye when he talks about Madi is infectious, and I always got a kick out of picturing Kenny cheering Madi on, no matter what she was up to!

What it must have been to be Madi and be so adored by her father and family... so unconditionally loved and supported from the day of her birth. That much love doesn't go away, she takes it with her, and it stays to help you remember and smile everytime you think of Madi and the joy she brought you.

All my prayers and condolences to you and your family.

The Prince Family

August 10, 2010

We've never met Madi (our daughter will be a new student at Campbell Elementary this year) but we are sooo saddened by her passing; our hearts ache for you. Judging by the photos of her life, though, Madi lived a full and beautiful life during her short time here. And we can only hope that knowing that brings you some level of peace and comfort. Please know that there are at least four perfect strangers out there praying that your pain will lessen with each passing day.

Patricia Stewart

August 10, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Kimberly Falcone

August 10, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this painful time.

Nita Sulak

August 10, 2010

Please know that all of you are in our closest thoughts and deepest prayers. God has blessed that sweet little angel of yours with an eternity in Heaven with Him. That is so special!

The Sulak Family
Guardian Angel Catholic Church

August 10, 2010

Dear Kelli and Kenny, I have never had the pleasure of meeting you, nor your beautiful daughter, Madi, but I feel as if I know you just a bit through my dear friend, Elfriede, who has shared your story with me over the last months. I am so very, very sorry for your loss, yet understand how proud and happy you are to be Madi's mom and dad. I know she is not hurting or suffering in any way now...I hope that is some comfort as you miss her so dearly. You and Madi have been (and will continue to be) in my thoughts and prayers. I hope your hearts hurt less each day and are able to smile more and more as you remember your special times together.
Sincerely,
Jill Merk (Stow, Ohio)

Ryan Tran

August 9, 2010

Kelli,

I am deeply sadden to hear about your loss. My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. Madi is a very beautiful daughter. I will always remember the time where she came into my office and gave me one of her creative artwork. God Bless,

Annie Smith

August 9, 2010

Dear Ms. Kelli and Mr. Kenny:

I, as well, am sad for the the loss of Madi, and I know that she is in the good hands of our gracious God. All her pain is gone, and she will be happy up there in heaven.

Lake Scalise

August 9, 2010

The Scalise family is praying for you, and we send our condolences and are very sorry to hear of this loss.

The Krause Family

August 9, 2010

Kelli & Kenny,

Our prayers are with you in your time of loss. Madi was such a sweet girl, full of smiles and laughter. She was a very special friend to everyone she met. Find comfort in knowing that she is with God now.. wearing those pink sparkly wings. :)

Love: Tina & Caitlyn Krause

Ray Hurley

August 9, 2010

Kelli and Kenny, I was very saddened to learn of the loss of your beautiful daughter. My thoughts and prayers are with you now as they have been throughout Madi's illness. Her years were far too short but the spirit you both nurtured is eternal.

August 9, 2010

Kelli - We are very sorry for the loss of Madi and we pray that the love of those around you help you through the days ahead. (The Englands, Houston, TX)

David Clark

August 9, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in your time of grief. May you take comfort in knowing that the spirit of Madi - a beautiful life, taken far too soon - lives on in those who knew her and loved her.

Ruthie Smith

August 9, 2010

Auntie Kelly and Uncle Kenny,

We had fun with Madi. We hope that the Holy Father will comfort you at this time.

Sincerely,
Ruthie, Annie, Jimmy, Lizzie, and Margie.

Faiza Smith

August 9, 2010

Kelly and Kenny,

I pray that GOD will hold you in the palms of His hands.

Joe Dandy

August 9, 2010

Kelli and Bill;

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. Madi was a ray of sunshine around the office. So very sorry for your loss.

August 9, 2010

I cannot begin to understand what you must be going through. Your lovely little girl will remain in our hearts forever. May God grant you peace as your angel is now in the arms of Jesus.

Brenda and Frank Manak (Sealy Texas)

Trudie Verret

August 9, 2010

Dear Kelli and Bill,
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Karen Simper

August 9, 2010

You have an angel to watch over you. May God give you strength and love at this time of need. She will always be remembered in our hearts and our minds. With love to the whole family.

Cherrie Etheridge

August 9, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

The Burkett Family

August 9, 2010

Although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear, just know that you are very close in every thought and prayer. We are sorry for your loss and we pray the love of those around you help you through the days ahead.

Robyn Ostera

August 9, 2010

Words cannot heal the pain of losing someone so precious. May God give you the strength to overcome the pain and may the memories of Madi and the love of those around you, help you through the days ahead.

Zach and Jill Savory

August 9, 2010

Kenny the last time I saw Madi was at Payton's 1st birthday party and she was playing and having fun; not a care in the world. The small time I spent with her I knew that she loved life and had a full spirit. She knew her daddy loved her with all of his heart. May her memories of loving life fill your heart.

The Burkett Family

August 9, 2010

Although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear, just know that you are very close in every thought and prayer. We are so sorry for your loss, may the strength of God and the love of those around you help you through the days ahead.

Melinda Sanchez

August 9, 2010

Kelli,
May the wonderful memories of Madi's life bring you a lifetime of smiles as her memory lives on in your hearts. A precious little angel that has now gone to join the angels in heaven. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones. Praying God's blessings for you all and a peace that He alone can give to sustain you through the days ahead. God Bless You.

Pat, Marie, Brandon and Nicole Hybner

August 9, 2010

You have a special guardian angel to watch over you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May God bless you.

Rami Kainer

August 9, 2010

I never had the privilege of meeting Madi but kept up with her progress through a member of my home team, Mike Reese,who requested prayers for her several months ago. So I did feel a bond with her and was so sad to hear that she had left us. Be comforted knowing that she is safe in the arms of Jesus who so loved little children.You and all who loved Madi will be in my thoughts and prayers

Petra and Ventura, Sofia and Lukas Lopez

August 9, 2010

Our thoughts, prayers and tears will be with you all. Madi will be always be in our hearts..our happy memories of her will prevail.

David Smith

August 9, 2010

Kelli and Kenny, I know that words seem insufficient right now. John Lennon wrote that life is what happens while you're busy making other plans. I know this doesn't fit into any plans you made. Outliving your child is never supposed to happen.

Those of us who were blessed to know Madi since she was born and to watch her grow into a beautiful and vibrant little girl will never forget her.

There is a higher purpose in this. I will leave it to God to reveal that purpose to you. I know He will.

In the mean time, please know that there are many who mourn with you. That Madi was so loved by so many speaks well of both her and her parents.

Andrea Alexander

August 9, 2010

Erin and Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May God's timely grace and mercy sustain you.

August 9, 2010

Kel, I am so so sorry for your loss. I couldn't find any words to express for your loss of precious daughter. My thoughs and prayers are with you. She brought so much joy, peace and happiness to the world, especially to my life. I am very grateful that Madi become part of my life right after i got to know her. She will hold a very special place in my heart and she is our precious little angle now. Love, Jasmine

Kim Childress

August 9, 2010

Kelli - Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Virgie Garcia

August 9, 2010

My deepest condolences and prayers are with you and your family.

Elfriede Neidert

August 9, 2010

Kelli: While my heart breaks for you and your family because of your loss, know that Madi is in a far, far better place and is no longer suffering and in pain. My sincerest sympathy to you all.

Beth Jacobson

August 9, 2010

Kelli, My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. We are here if you need anything, don't hesitate to ask.

Anna Lira

August 9, 2010

My deepest condolences to your family. May God bless you and your love ones during this time of sorrow.

Mitch & Jolayne Miller

August 9, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Tracy Ross (West)

August 9, 2010

Kenny - So sorry for your loss.

Magdalena Szczeglik

August 9, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family! Words fall short of expressing our sorrow for your loss.May the sorrow that you feel in your heart lighten by the love that surrounds you. Our deepest condolences for losing your precious little girl who brought so much joy and love into this world. She will forever hold special place in our hearts.
May you find comfort knowing that she is in God's loving arms.
Love,
Mag & Alex

Paula Casilio

August 9, 2010

For the Madi Matula family but especially for Kat.

I can see Madi now asking for pink wings instead of the standard issue white. She brought the greatest joy to all the lives she touched and a lot of us had never met her but feel we know her well because of her loving grandmother. She is at peace. God bless you in your time of sorrow, my prayers are with you.

Debby Snow

August 9, 2010

Dear Kelli and Kenny,
We are so saddened by the loss of your beautiful daughter Madi. I know there are no words to ease your pain, but I also know you will see her again one day. Until then her memory will live in all of us. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Lanie Rose

August 9, 2010

Precious Madi always will have a special place in our hearts. Brain cancer seems to take the best and the brightest. May her memory be as a blessing.

Brenda McMillan

August 8, 2010

Our prayers are with you during this difficult time. Madi will be missed dearly, but we find comfort knowing we have an extra angel in heaven today. She was an amazing little girl who touched so many lives in such a short time. We are blessed to have known her.

Kathy Dillard

August 8, 2010

Matula Family:
I am so sad to hear of Madi's passing. She was a special little girl. I loved being part of her life when I worked at Campbell in the Nurses office. When I had to leave there last year I missed her everyday. You are so right that Smile she had would light up your day for sure. Now she will light up heaven. She will never ever be forgotten.

Melanie Geis

August 8, 2010

To all the Madison Matula Family:
May God comfort you & keep you in His loving embrace during this most difficult time.

Deborah Warren

August 8, 2010

May God Bless you and your family in this time of sorrow, while the many memories of "MADISON" bring you comfort. You'll are in my thoughts and prayers. " A Caring Mother".

Michele Davis

August 8, 2010

Your family is so very special to me, watching you grow in love and sharing in the joys and the sorrows. May God carry you and comfort you and give remembrancesof the wonders and happiness your little angel brought to your lives. Love you all~

G. Parker

August 8, 2010

May God hold your precious angel Madi in His loving arms.

AJ Ramirez

August 8, 2010

The Madison Riley Family,
In time may you know your beautiful Angel Madi, budded on earth to blossom in Heaven.
May Our Father's compassion envelope each of you during this painful time and always!

susan williams

August 7, 2010

My prayers and love are to you Rebecca and your precious family

Jennifer Williams

August 7, 2010

Thoughts and prayers are with you guys!!!

Johnathan, Carrie, Aidan, & Katelyn Fraley

August 7, 2010

Your little angel has grown her wings, and now her memory will live on forever. As the weeks and months go by, Madi will be remembered for the vibrant young girl she was before this disease took over. Thank you for sharing her with us! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all in this impossible time.

Amy Angell

August 7, 2010

Our family sends our thoughts and prayers to you.

Robyn Hernandez

August 6, 2010

My thoughts and prayers go out to your family! Madison was such an amazing little girl who will forever hold a spot in my heart!

Kari Browning

August 6, 2010

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve. I will always remember the fun times we had with Madi here at the office. Madi will live on in my heart forever and I know that she will be watching over us everyday. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Please don't hesitate to call if there's anything I can do for you.

Camille Trahan

August 6, 2010

Kelli and Bill, my thoughts and prayers go out to you. So sorry for your loss

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