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Matthew Manger-Lynch Obituary

Manger-Lynch, Matthew Byram Born in Milwaukee on September 28, 1978. A tragic bicycle accident in downtown Chicago ended his full and promising life on February 24, 2008, at the young age of 29. He leaves to remember his too brief but accomplished and creative life, his wife Elizabeth, brother Luke, parents Barbara Manger and William H. Lynch, sisters-in-law Kathy Lynch and Megan Gleeson and her husband Brandon, brother-in-law Rob Gleeson, parents-in-law Dr. Robert Gleeson and Jane Gleeson, Uncle Robert E. Manger and Aunt Betsy Manger, cousins Dylan Manger and Fritz Manger, Aunt Cynthia Osowski, Aunt Jacquelyn Lynch and Uncle Bruce Lynch. Matt attended Roosevelt Middle School and graduated from University School-Milwaukee, WI 1996. As a youth Matt attended Camp Manito-wish and later worked there as a camp counselor. He was a dedicated saxophone player, participating in several groups, including four - years in the UW-M wind ensemble for high school students. Matt graduated from Macalester College, St Paul, MN 2001, majoring in anthropology. On December 18, 2003 he married Elizabeth Gleeson. He graduated from the Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Institute, Paris in 2004. Matt began his employment at Barbary Fig, St. Paul, MN and continued at Le Grenouille in New York City and at Ambria in Chicago. He was a partner in Mandolin Catering in Chicago. Matt was a young man of great exuberance and many enthusiasms. His energy and passion for life and his creativity led him in many directions. He was an avid cyclist, fisherman, chef, Packer fan, wine collector, sausage maker and committed outdoorsman. He loved sailing, swimming, snowboarding, canoeing and cross-country skiing. His contagious zest for life affected everyone around him. He was a loving husband, brother and son. Visitation will take place on Thursday, February 28, 2008 at St. Christopher's Episcopal Church, 7845 North River Road in River Hills, from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM. A service in celebration of Matt's life will follow at the church at 4:00 PM. Interment will be private. In Matt's memory, memorials may be made to the YMCA Camp Manito-wish, Box 246, Boulder Junction, WI 54512, or to the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation, 9 W. Hubbard ST, Suite 402, Chicago, IL 60610-6545. FEERICK FUNERAL HOME Shorewood (414) 962-8383 Condolences may be sent to: www.feerickfuneralhome.com

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

Published by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel from Feb. 26 to Feb. 28, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Manger-Lynch

Not sure what to say?





Michael Vernon

May 21, 2008

Matt's wife and family,

I never met Matt, but after seeing the memorial mounted at the intersection of Lincoln & Irving Park, I looked online to find more about him. I learned that, like myself and my wife, he was a graduate of Macalester. I am so sorry for your loss. He sounds like a wonderful man and my heart goes out to you all. Even online, I can tell that he was deeply loved.

Pat Blackmon

March 11, 2008

Barbara, My heart goes out to you. I understand. Pat Blackmon

Duffy Hutchins

March 11, 2008

Manger Lynch's:
The news of Matts passing has hit me very hard. I think of all the wonderful adventures that Matt and I had together. Matt's smile and zeal for life inspired myself and many others. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Margaret (Kathy's aunt) Otvos

March 9, 2008

I was schocked and saddened to hear of Matthew's untimely passing. My prayers and heartfelt condolences go out to your entire family.

lindsey pearlman

March 6, 2008

elizabeth-
i am so shocked and heartbroken by the news. here for you if you need anything at all.
-lindsey pearlman (monty's sitter)

"Chip" Combs

March 5, 2008

Dear Matt's Family,

Although I have never met Matt, we shared a few common passions: for life, for bike riding/racing and for Manito-wish. I pray that wonderful memories will help ease the pain of loss in some way.
Please know that the Manito-wish Community is thinking of you and praying for you.

Lindsey Kriete

March 5, 2008

Manger-Lynch's:
I am living in Sweden right now and the sad news about Matthew came to me very quickly from several mutual friends in Milwaukee. I am deeply saddened about Matthew's death, especially since I saw him just recently in Marquette, MI for the Ore to Shore bike race along with Micah and Bill. He was full of life and passion for biking. My thoughts are with all of you. With Sympathy, Lindsey Kriete

Marie and Steve Fox

March 3, 2008

To the Manger-Lynch and Gleeson families -- We are thinking of you all and send you our deepest condolences. We're so grateful for all of our fond memories of him from USM and Manito-wish over the years, with his constant enthusiasm and joy in life.
Sincerely,
Marie (kohler-cabot) and Steve Fox

Sara Dunn (Coffman)

March 3, 2008

Dear Elizabeth and Gleeson family,
I am so sad to learn of this tragic news. Please know that my mom, dad and I are thinking of you and Matt's family during this very difficult time. I am so sorry,

Suzanne & Gary Heath

March 3, 2008

Elizabeth:
We were so sorry to hear of Matt's passing and stunned by the news. We knew you from the Larrabee Street Dog Park and remember some fond times with you and Matt and Montey. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Suzanne, Gary, Magnus & Payton

Jenn Schaal

March 2, 2008

To Matt's Family,
My deepest sympathies. Matt and I had mutual friends growing up from Roosevelt, and later were reunited performing with GMYWE at the University of Milwaukee. We traveled to Europe together in 1994. The Matt you describe in the notice is the Matt I remember. A very special guy. Please know how many lives he touched.

Sincerely,
Jenn Schaal

Julie and Jay Jones

February 29, 2008

Luke- wanted to send you and Kathy a virtual hug here. Wish we could be there to give it in person. Our thoughts are with you and the entire Manger/Lynch/Gleeson family during this difficult time. Always know that we are here for you.

Kristi and Drew Richmond

February 29, 2008

We were so saddened to hear of your loss. I have such fond memories of working with Matt at Manito-wish. His smile and love for life were contagious. Our deepest sympathies to all who knew and loved him.

Barbra Luce-Turner

February 29, 2008

I met Matt when he was at Ambria. He truly revelled in the experiences of life. He loved his family so happily. After Ambria closed, I wondered where Matt would wind up because I knew that I would want to dine there. Such a tragic loss of a very good and happy soul.

Patrick & Eliza Harrigan

February 29, 2008

Luke, Elizabeth, Barbara, and Bill:

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this unbelievably difficult time. Matt was truly one of a kind, and I hope his zeal for life will continue to inspire us all.

Julie & John Wolf

February 29, 2008

Dear Elizabeth & Family,

Our sincerest & heartfelt sympathy in your loss of Matthew. We pray with God's help you find solace & peace.
Julie & John Wolf

Bryan Rowes

February 29, 2008

I posted this on another website before I found this, but I want to make sure it reaches you, so I'm reposting it here:

I was a friend of Matt's in college. I haven't kept in touch with Matt, or even contacted him since then. I learned about his accident from the alumni ultimate frisbee list-serve which of course made me very sad. So I followed all the links that were sent to me and read all the things Matt has been doing. It made me really happy to find out about all the fun things he has done. Paris, New York City, Chicago- that is great. I'm sorry I wasn't able to hear about all of these great adventures from him. In my mind I can picture him telling me about his experiences and everything he has been up to and it's even better than all the great articles that have been written.

I really wrote in to share my condolences. It's really sad what happened to Matt and I just wanted you to know that I and lots of other people are thinking about him and his family right now.

Sincerely,
Bryan Rowes

P.S. A sausage and wine shop is a wonderful idea- I would have shopped there.

Caroline Barrow

February 29, 2008

My heartfelt condolences to all of you. Remembering the antics of Matt and crew in (and outside) the hallways of USM, with his constant smile and frequent laughter, may the memories keep you smiling. May his exuberance transfer to all of us, helping to live our own lives that much more fuller in honor of Matt's 'all in' philosophy.

Corky & Peggy Burgard

February 28, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Matthew at this time of great tragedy.

Julie & Jon Hassert

February 28, 2008

Dear Elizabeth,
We are so sorry for your tremendous loss. Our hearts ache for you and your family...We are especially thinking of you and praying for you today as you remember and celebrate Matt's life.

Rose Daitsman

February 28, 2008

Barbara, Bill, Luke and all the rest of the family. I grieve with you and send my wishes for you all to find the strength to sustain you in this difficult time.

Christopher Kyle Schmid

February 28, 2008

I knew Matt a little through Luke and a little through Schuyler. He, as everyone else seems to agree, had a lot of exuberance. Just a very vital person. I remember a canoe trip with him and Schuyler down the Milwaukee river a very long time ago. It was a beautiful day and we had a great time. My heart goes out to the whole family.

February 28, 2008

To the Manger-Lynch Family,

Our thoughts are with you.

The Burdick Clan in Seattle

Dirk Jensen and Annie Aggens

February 28, 2008

We are deeply saddened by the loss of Matt. There are no words that will bring comfort, but we are thinking of your family and Matt's friends. Grace and Peace.

The Geisler/Jaehnert Family

February 28, 2008

We grieve the terrible loss in a wonderful family, and wish there were words to ease your sadness. Words may fail us, but your love will always sustain you.

Scott Baker

February 28, 2008

Elizabeth,

Know that my heart goes out to you in this unbelievably tragic time. I am so sorry, Matt was a great guy and you both became good friends and neighbors. If there is anything that I can do, don't hesitate to call - you know where to find me. If you need someone to stay with Monty anytime, let me know.

Vicki & Buz Reed

February 28, 2008

Barb
and Bill, Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days
ahead. If there is anything we can do for you please let us know.

Cynthia Scoggin

February 28, 2008

Dear Elizabeth, Barbara and Bill:

Betsy let us know of your tragedy immediately. I remember talking to Barbara and Matt on the lawn looking over the lake at Dylan and Alisons wedding, and he took my sons waterskiing. We feel for you--as I said to Betsy "a knife in the heart". I know you will all find a way to keep him as a strong and daily memory.
Cynthia, Jim, Brendan and Gabe

Lynn Kauffman

February 28, 2008

Dear Elizabeth and Family,

My heart aches for you for this unfathomable and tragic loss. May your love for each other give you strength, comfort, and support. I am so very very sorry for the unimaginable pain and loss you have been dealt.

February 28, 2008

Our hearts go out to all who knew and loved Matt. The strength to face each new day will come from all the friends and family that love you ...Our prayers are with you . Pam and Hunter Borisch

Neil & Jenny McNamara

February 28, 2008

Elizabeth and family,
It is with true heartache and sadness to learn of Matt's death. Still in disbelief, we wish you strength and courage to continue Matt's unbelievable excitement for life and all of the experiences he sought. Cyclists around the country - world - grieve with you.

Sandra and Derek Tyus

February 28, 2008

Derek and I wish to convey our deepest sympathy to your family.

Carol & Nick Dettmann

February 28, 2008

From far-away Sydney and after such a brief meeting, our sincere condolence on such a tragic loss.

Diane and David Buck

February 28, 2008

We are shocked and grieved to learn of Matt's death. Our hearts and prayers go out to Elizabeth, Bill, Barbara, Luke and the whole extended family. We send our deep and sad aloha. May we all have the strength to understand this terrible loss.

February 27, 2008

Barb, Bill, & Luke -
I am so incredibly sorry. I know words will do little to help at this time, but please know that we are thinking of you and wishing you strength.

-Luke Walrath & Betsi Morrison

February 27, 2008

We are so saddened to hear of your loss..of a husband, a son, a brother, and a friend. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time...know that the angels are with matt. Pam and Hunter Borisch

Nate Kraucunas

February 27, 2008

Dear Elizabeth, Jane, Bob, Barbara and Bill, please accept my heartfelt condolences, for your great loss.

Thelma Friedman

February 27, 2008

Please accept our deepest sympathy.

Terrbile loss......So sorry....

Thelma and Sheldon

John Reynolds

February 27, 2008

My sympathies to the family and friends grieving over this tragic loss.

Brad and Elizabeth Koeckeritz

February 27, 2008

Although we only spent a little time with Matt while he was visiting Jackson we enjoyed every minute. Matt was a great guy and an amazing talent. Our love and support to his family and friends.

Nicholas Nico Westlund

February 27, 2008

Peace be with You, one and all. You all will be in my thoughts and the quickness in my step as I pedal my way across this universe.

Sharon Chaplock

February 27, 2008

Dear Ones, We are so very sorry to hear of Matt's tragic accident. I will always remember the delicious "short eats" he made for AWE's event and how lovely Elizabeth served them with aplomb. Our hearts go out to all of you, and our prayers for peace and healing. God bless you - Sharon and Gwynne Chaplock

Lois Dee

February 27, 2008

Barbara and family
I am shocked to hear of your tragedy and please know that you are in my heart and my prayers at this difficult time. Words cannot lessen your grief, but I wish for strength for you and the knowledge that you will always have him with you. From all your friends in Professional Dimensions.

Serena Pollack

February 27, 2008

Elizabeth, Luke, and all of Matt's family and friends:

I am so incredibly sorry to hear about your loss. While I haven't seen or spoekn to y'all in some time, I will always remember Matt's smile and zest for life. Maybe 15 years ago I sat next to Matt on a plane returning from spring break --- he talked about music (he had brought his guitar on vacation), and movies, and camp; it wasn't a life changing conversation but it left a permanent impression of what an incredible person he was. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Dr. James Rohan and Staff Chicago Style Smiles

February 27, 2008

Elizabeth, Family and Friends,
We are sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do at this time to help. Matthew was always a patient we looked forward to seeing. He will be truely missed.

Joan Kinateder

February 27, 2008

I did not know Matt, but saw his notice in the paper. I have a son around Matt's age and can only imaagine what your family is going through. My heart is aching for you. As a mother, I share your in your sadness. I send your family, my love.

Katie Harrigan

February 27, 2008

I am so sorry to hear about Matt's death. I have great memories of him at Manito-wish and am so sorry for this terrible loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Charles Masson

February 27, 2008

To Matt's relatives, Elizabeth, and his friends
I want you to know how the entire family at La Grenouille, those who worked with him, those who knew him share the brightest and fondest memories of Matt.
"To know him was to love him." -
With our heartfelt sympathy, Charles Masson and the entire crew at La Grenouille.

February 27, 2008

Cyclists everywhere are shaken by this. Our hearts go out to you...

Eric Christiansen

February 27, 2008

Barbara:
My heartfelt condolences to you and your family at this tragic loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
With deepest sympathy,
Eric

Barbara Barrow

February 27, 2008

Libby called to give me the shocking news of sweet Matt's all-too early tragic death. How utterly, completely heartbreaking. I cry with my daughter, fondly remembering that delightful, exuberant dear friend's visits in High School years. My tears join yours too, his loving family, wife Elisabeth, and in-laws, as well as Matt's many friends who grieve and miss him.

May you be blessed with God's peace as Matt frolics with the angels.

Susan and Jay Davies

February 27, 2008

We didn't know Matt, but our daughter Siri and son-in-law Jared spent last week with Matt and Elizabeth in Mexico and they are just heartsick. Our sympathy goes out to your families.

Robert Rawind

February 27, 2008

The Cyclist

Broken and bruised, you soughed
where you didn't belong.
Movement became imperative,
but acquiescence, ready to be
solaced with a Solemn Interlude,
brought the cogency of Requiem.
Maintain'd by Tremendous Gleam,
somnolent sonance awaits
for the Mystical Bequest
of Somatic Accentuation.
by
Robert Louis Rawind

I dedicate this to Matthew, his family, and all who knew and loved him.
But why would a poet go out of his way to write about such sadness?
Did I know him? No.
But I was there. I saw. And now I love more. God bless !

anon

February 26, 2008

leaving ain't fair- you know
parting ain't just

Andrea Stoeckl

February 26, 2008

My heart goes out to Luke, Elizabeth, the Manger-Lynch, and the Gleeson families. We are all saddened to hear such news and it truly is obvious that Matt has touched many, many lives. Keep his spirit alive as I know you will. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers as you all heal. Andrea, USM '93

Kim Borisch-Mathews

February 26, 2008

The Hoelter/Borisch/Mathews/Singh families would like to extend sympathetic thoughts to Matt's extended family. We hope your wonderful memories of Matt will sustain you through these difficult times and ultimately let you reflect back on a great young man.
Kim, Lindsay, Amanda, Heather, and the rest of our clan

Michelle

February 26, 2008

I am so sorry to hear about Matt. I last saw Matt when we attended Roosevelt together. Looking at the pictures and comments posted about him, it's very clear that he continued to be the adventurous, fun loving person I last saw 15 plus years ago. I can tell that Matt is very much loved and will be greatly missed by the many people whose lives he has touched. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Peggie Mallery

February 26, 2008

We will remember Matthew and his part in celebration of Luke and Kathy's rehearsal dinner in Jackson, WY and, yes, the exuberance!
Our hearts go out to all of his family.
Most sincerely,
Peg and Tuck Mallery

Betsy Popkin

February 26, 2008

Dear Barbara,

I was so sorry to hear about your son Matt's passing. Although I never met him, I'm sure the exuberance and love of life others have mentioned came at least partially from you. I know you have wonderful memories of him. My heart goes out to you and your family.

Betsy (Alk) Popkin

Lee Rosenstein-Gregory

February 26, 2008

Elizabeth, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Matt. We(7th floor) are so shocked and saddened when we heard the news. If i can do anything for you, please let me know. My thoughts and prayers go out out to you and your family.

Lee Rosenstein-Gregory
7th fl-720 n Larrabee Two River Place

Joan Michaels Paque

February 26, 2008

We would like to express our heartfelt
sympathy to Matt's wife, parents Barbara and Bill and to brother Luke and to all his other relatives. It is
incredibly sad to lose such an exemplary person at such an early age.
Joan Michaels Paque & Henry Paque

Noelle Tesmer

February 26, 2008

I am so sorry to hear of Matt's death. I have fond memories of him from our days at USM. My thoughts are with you during this painful time.
Sincerely, Noelle Tesmer

Shaina Robbins

February 26, 2008

I am thinking of all of you. Matt was so kind and generous. I always truly enjoyed my time with him. I am proud to have known him. I am so sorry for this horrible loss. With my warmest regards,

Matt at '08 Packer Game

February 26, 2008

Amanda Lawton

February 26, 2008

I will always remember that twinkle in Matt's eye, his beautiful smile, and his ardent desire to live life to its fullest, no matter the activity in which he was engaged.

I am deeply sorry for the Manger Lynch family's and the rest of the world's loss of such a vibrant and loving spirit. We will miss you Matt!

Mitchell Waller

February 26, 2008

It has been many many years since I have spoken with or seen Matt. I just happened to read an article about this terrible tragedy in the paper. Suddenly alot of old memories came flooding back. Trips to the Manger Lynch summer cottage and skiing in Michigan. I just wanted to wish by sincerest condolences to the Manger Lynch family and for them to know that Matt had touched so many lives, even those that were from a long ago past. I will keep all of you in my prayers and again I am so very sorry for your loss. MW

Shannon Robins

February 26, 2008

I am so sorry for the loss of such an amazing individual. I went to college with Matt and had the pleasure of getting to know what a truly talented, caring, and creative person he was. I know he will be sorely missed by everyone who's life he touched.

Sarah Jordan (now Lawton)

February 26, 2008

I knew Matt at Macalester and am deeply saddened to hear of his tragic death. I remember him as a funny, wise and inquisitive friend and can't seem to comprehend that he is gone. He had an incredible infectious laugh.

The most memorable time we shared was during a trip to Florida with a Marine Biology class. We spent the evenings riding bikes in the dark on the truncated bridge that spans the water between mainland Florida and the biological research station we were visiting. I'll always remember the exhilaration we felt. He helped me get through a difficult time in my life. He was very special.

Michael and Renee Crawford

February 26, 2008

Our deepest sympathies for your tragic loss from the entire Crawford family. You are in our thoughts during this difficult time.

Mona Watermolen

February 26, 2008

Dear Barbara, Bill, Luke & Elizabeth:
My heart aches for all of you. You are in my thoughts and prayers. The consolation I have is he was such a wonderful young man with all these accomplishments at such a young age. I'm sure his grandfather was waiting at heaven's gate with open arms. Your family has touched so many lives and it's an honor to have been acquainted. Please take care. God Bless.

libby barrow

February 26, 2008

All who were lucky to know Matt will remember and cherish his brilliant spark & contageous smile. I always think of him as one of my very dearest old friends and am comforted to think back on many fond memories of the great adventures we shared. Full of energy, fresh ideas and fun. My heart breaks for his family and so many loved ones. We can all take inspiration from Matt's perpetual pursuit of enjoyment in life and his ever-present spirit of adventure.

sunny williams

February 26, 2008

Dear Elizabeth, Jane and Bob,
Words cannot express the sorrow that I feel for all of you at Matt's shocking and tragic death. Even though I didn't know Matt, I do know the extraordinary and wrenching tragedy of losing a child.
I cannot imagine, Elizabeth, the depth of the pain you must feel. And knowing your parents, I know they have lost a son as surely as if he was their own biological child. I
send you all my deepest sympathy and my thoughts have been constantly with you since I first learned of
this tragedy. Love, Sunny

Kathleen Arenz

February 26, 2008

To Becky and all the members of the Gleeson family, and to Barbara and all the Manger-Lynch family, please accept my heartfelt condolences. I grieve with you.
Kathleen Arenz

Kathy Madden

February 26, 2008

Our prayers and thoughts are with you all, please know we are here for you,
Love, Aunt Kathy, Uncle Bill

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