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Bruce Matthews Obituary

Matthews, Bruce Erik, 42, NetApp software engineer, passed away Saturday, August 4, 2012. Bruce was his wife's best friend, his children's hero, was loved by all and inspired all who knew him. Devotion to God, people, adventure, fun and the Pittsburgh Steelers defined Bruce. Visitation, 7-8:30 p.m., Friday, August 10, Downing & Lahey Mortuary West. A private family interment will be followed by a memorial service at 2 p.m., Saturday, August 11, Central Community Church. Preceded in death by mother, Joan Walls. Survivors: wife, Laura Matthews; children, Gavin and Graci Matthews, all of the home; father and step-mother, Howard and Karen Matthews of Davidsville, PA; brothers, Steve Matthews (Jane) of Johnstown, PA, Doug Matthews (Laurie) of Navarre, FL; grandmother, Buelah Walls of Johnstown, PA. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Bruce Matthews Memorial Fund, c/o Emprise Bank, 8807 W. Central, Wichita, KS 67212. Tributes may be made to the family via www.dlwichita.com

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Published by Wichita Eagle from Aug. 8 to Aug. 9, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Bruce Matthews

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Kristin Richard

July 31, 2025

Thinking about Bruce today and the impact he made on so many!

Graci Matthews´s

September 15, 2023

Graci Matthews´s

September 15, 2023

Graci Matthews´s

September 15, 2023

It´s been 11 years of hurt and growth. I love my daddy with all my heart I can´t wait to see him when I finish my own race. -Graci matthews 15

Bev Ozanne

August 3, 2022

Hard to believe that ten years have passed since Bruce's heavenly homecoming. He is still missed and remembered by the Ozanne family. Thinking of you, Laura, and your family. Praying for continued healing and joy in your lives! Love and hugs, Bev and Steve Ozanne

An old Friend

February 6, 2013

Just thinking of you Laura. I hope you are going to be okay. My heart goes to you and your children. I still can't believe he is gone. Please don't let this change you.

Janella Van Zee

September 7, 2012

Bruce and Laura--I will always have special memories of when you led the singles ministry in Santa Monica, CA. I was there for less than a year, but you helped me find awesome roommates and definitely helped me grow as a young Christian. I was impacted by your love and service to God and I admired you both alot. Since moving from California, I loved hearing about what you were up to and especially about your growing family. I can't believe Bruce is gone and my heart goes out to you, Laura, and your children. Despite the saddness, I have joy and am inspired that Bruce "finished his race" faithful to God. I loved reading all the beautiful tributes left here and hope they bring much comfort. Bruce was such a blessing in my life and I thank God for him! Love always--Janella Van Zee

Miesha Bailey

August 27, 2012

Bruce~you were a wonderful man, husband, father, friend. It is very hard to say goodbye. I never told you this, but you were the one I wanted to be the minister at my wedding. I had a plan to fly you, Laura and the kids out, put you up in a nice hotel, and have a wonderful celebration. It would be my way to tell you "thank you" for being such a great man, role model, and leader. To thank you for your selflessness and upright character. For your kindness. I am so sorry this has happened. Oh, to turn back the hands of time...Laura, Gavin and Graci, know that you are surrounded with God's love and our love, and I pray it will help you to heal as best you can from losing such an amazing person. RIP, Bruce. With much love~Miesha Bailey

Cynthia Soffiatti

August 22, 2012

Laura,
This took me completely off guard when I learned of his passing... Both you and Bruce hold a special place in my heart. While you may find that hard to believe since we haven't spoke in such a long time, I want you to know you, Bruce and Gavin have been in my thoughts through the years. I will always remember Bruce from our Bible Talks and all the Volleyball we played. He was so much fun and Bruce had such a great spirit. Too I will always be grateful for all the work and care he graciously gave to my mother while she was still there in Wichita. I will never forget his smile and sparkling blue eyes. Hugs to both you and the kids. I will keep you in my prayers.

Cynthia Soffiatti

Tony Dalessandro

August 20, 2012

Our deepest sympathy to all of the Matthews families. I knew Bruce's father before he met his wife Karen who worked for me. Howard was a good friend and business associate for years. Sandra and I are so sorry for your loss.

Sandra and Tony Dalessandro

Judi

August 18, 2012

When I visited Wichita a couple of years ago, I knew there was one person that I just had to meet...Bruce. He had a great attitude and didn't take things too seriously. He always had that slightly sarcastic comment about the Dilbert-like situations that would occur at work. He really made me laugh.

Rusty & Vickie Prince

August 17, 2012

From 1991 to now. From military and the 3rd SPS to civillian. I remember our talks. I am thankful that God allowed Bruce to be a part of my walk. You and the kids and Bruce are in our hearts and prayers always.

Chris & Cindy Redmond

August 17, 2012

Cindy and I are so sorry to hear of your loss. I know there are no words that will ease the pain for you and the family. In time you will be able to smile again. Look to your memories with Bruce to fill your heart with love, joy, and happiness. It will sustain you.

our brief reunion in San Antonio in July

Andy and Tammy Fleming

August 16, 2012

Laura, Gavin, Graci:
We have held you close in prayer from the moment we heard the shocking news that Bruce had suddenly died. We could not believe it. Though Gavin won't remember us and Graci has never known us, please know that your family has held a special place in our hearts ever since we met you in the West Region of the church in LA. We have missed you and would have loved it if our paths could have crossed again, if we could have lived near you somehow once again, or you near us, if we could have served together as before. Your faith and love for life, your trust in God and his goodness, your willingness to work hard and meet challenges with hope and determination, have been just a few of the characteristics in your family that have inspired and strengthened us. We know God is with you. We wish we could be, in person, as well. We thank God so much for Bruce's life, for Gavin and Graci, and will continue to hold you close in prayer. Our hearts and thoughts are with you daily.

Missy Carroll Aranda

August 15, 2012

Laura and family,
Please know that Bruce's life touched many around the U.S. I remember your family from your time in West LA when we would have Singles meetings at your house. Much love and prayer are sent your way.

Bev Ozanne

August 14, 2012

Laura,
So sorry to learn of Bruce's death and have had you and your family in our prayers. I am so thankful at times of loss to be able to trust in God's care, mercy and faithfulness. I am certain that you are clinging to the hope of heaven and reunion with Bruce in your heavenly home one day! Hugs and kisses to you and your precious children.

Joanne Conradi

August 14, 2012

Laura and family,

Although I haven't talked to you in years I want you to know how extremely sorry I am to hear about Bruce's passing. You and Bruce made a HUGE impact in my life and will always hold a special place in my heart. Bruce was one of the nicest, kindest people I have ever met and I know he is in Heaven with that big smile and twinkling eyes. Please accept my sincere condolences to you and your two children. Love to you.

August 13, 2012

As a friend to Steve, Bruce's brother, he often spoke so highly of Bruce and your family. My heart truly goes out to you and your children and the whole family.I have been lifting you and the whole family up in prayer and will continue to do so. God Bless! Stephanie Carney

August 12, 2012

Laura,
With deepest sympathy from our family to yours. It is incredible to hear of the life Bruce gave back to God and, although we never knew him, we share his life's commitment and so feel connected to you both. A saint does not pass into the heavenly realm without being noticed. Stay strong, your brother & sister from the Champaign Church, Dave & Lisa

Marilyn Browne

August 11, 2012

Laura, Helen Keller once said "What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us." My thoughts and prayers are with you, Gavin, Graci, and all of your family during this difficult time. Know that you are loved and that you now have a special angel watching over you always. May you be comforted by your wonderful memories together and may time heal your heart~

Tabitha Lane

August 11, 2012

Laura,
I'm so sorry that this has happened! It's been a long time, but you two made such an impact on me and I'm grateful for it. Hugs to you and your kids! If you need anything or just to talk, let me know. You can find me on Bruce's Facebook friends list, or contact Joel Peed at the Eau Claire church.

Lori & Jimmy Allen

August 10, 2012

Laura, We love you and your family so much. You have had an impact on so many people us included. It is a testimony to how God uses you. No one will miss Bruce like you do. I know you will trust God and lean not on your own understanding. We hold his memory dear and near to our hearts. What a tragedy but also what joy he has made it to heaven. Love always,

Jan Watsabaugh

August 10, 2012

Laura,
You, Gavin, Gracie, and Bruce's family have been in my thoughts and prayers everyday. I pray that God will heal your broken heart.

Jenna Petty

August 10, 2012

Hearing this news broke my heart, My thoughts and prayers are with Laura and the family. Bruce and Laura you were so influential in my tough teen years and I will forever be grateful. everytime I imagine bruce I see his huge warm SMILE and I will always remember him that way. <3

Noah Malec

August 10, 2012

I will miss Bruce deeply but we all know hes in a better place and I pray for Laura and Gavin and Gracie everyday I remberber doing round ball for russia its a 24 hour basketball and he was there the hole time so long my brother we will meet again one day so save a place for me.

Roger and Carol Wiggett

August 10, 2012

Laura and family, please acept our deepest sympathies. I had lost track of Bruce over the years as we worked in different departments, but I will never forget the major contributions he made to our networked attachd storage project at Symbios (now NetApp) in the mid 90's. Bruce's research, tireless efforts and determination helped us achieve a major benchmark that allowed our project to continue in it's very early stages. Bruce was given a special cake for his extroidinary contributions to our project. Bruce was such a hard worker and all around nice guy. His smiling face and friendly hello's will be missed forever at NetApp and by all who ever met him. Our prayers are with you and your family.

Mark Smith

August 10, 2012

Laura,
May the God of all comfort hold you and the family close to him now as you go through this difficult time.
I thank God that he give us such wonderful gifts, the presence to enjoy them while they are here, and the strength to continue after he takes them away!

It is so hard to say good bye, so I will just say see you later.

Our Love and our prayers,
Mark and Carolyn Smith

Kim Thompson

August 10, 2012

Bruce Matthews.....There are no words to express the sorrow that I feel knowing that you no longer walk on this earth. My heart breaks for Laura who has not known a day without you for the past 24 years, for Gavin and Gracie who will not get to have you for the rest of their lives, for the grandchildren who will not know personally what a fantastic man you are. I love your family because you first loved me. There are not many like you Bruce. And though we know that you are in Heaven with Jesus, we are heart broken that your journey here with us has come to an end. Thank you Bruce, for your example, your love, your leadership and your life. I will always love you and your family.

Katheryn Shull

August 10, 2012

Dear Laura, Gavin & Gracie my deepest sympathy to each of you on the loss of your best friend & hero. Rest, knowing that Bruce is watching over you in heaven. God Bless You. (Laura, I'm Alyssa's Aunt, I last spoke with you & Bruce on field day & PWS)

Anne-Marie Broodryk

August 9, 2012

Bruce was a jewel on earth and now he has moved on to receive his crown jewels. He never judged, always loved and joked around often. He was a blessing to everyone around him.

Laura, Gavin & Gracie, my heart goes out to you and I am praying for you daily. May you find comfort in knowing how much he loved you! He spoke about you often with so much tenderness!!

Jack and Kathy Holsinger

August 9, 2012

Howard and Karen

I have just been informed about you terrible loss. Jack and I are so deeply sorry. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this sorrowful time.

If there is anything ya'll need please do not hesitate to let us know.

Jinchao Yang

August 9, 2012

It is so sad that we lost a great co-worker and friend. Bruce had been so easy to work with in all settings, he lit up people's days with his smiles. It is a total shock.

It is very hard for Bruce's family in this difficult time, please stay strong.

Rest in peace in heaven! You will be missed!

From
Jinchao Yang
(A NetApp co-worker and friend)

Steve & Keri Hiddleson

August 9, 2012

In times like these - words do not suffice. We are so saddened by the loss of a true man of God and yet encouraged to know that he finished his race and was victorious! Laura- please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and Gavin & Gracie. We love you.

August 9, 2012

Bruce, laura, words cannot express my sorrow. I can only say that your impact on me will never be forgotten. There is not enough time or paper to put into words what you mean to me. I love you, and will miss you dear friend.

Kelvin hicks

Donuts with Dad (Gavin & Caroline)

Carrie Dunkelberger

August 9, 2012

Gavin & Caroline, at your Church. Thank you so much for always inviting us!

Carrie Dunkelberger

August 9, 2012

August 9, 2012

Laura, Gavin & Graci, words cannot express how sad we are of Bruce's passing. It doesn't seem real. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you always. We love you all,
Carrie, Jeff, Bryan, CAROLINE, Evan, Reed, Jacob and baby Sarah

Donna Adams

August 9, 2012

Laura, My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.From what I remember about the two of you is your love you had for each other. Although you moved away long ago and we really didn't get the opportunity to get to know Bruce from what I have read in the guest book he was a remarkable husband,father& friend..Please take care of yourself and hug Gavin and Gracie tight..

Jennifer Ramirez

August 9, 2012

We are so saddened to hear of your loss. The last time we saw Bruce was at Gavin's field day at PWS in May. He was having a great time and really cheering Gavin & Alyssa on! He was SO proud of Gavin and just laughing up a storm!! We are praying for you and with you. All our love, Jen, Lance, Taylor and Alyssa Ramirez

Brandee Pangbrun

August 9, 2012

Words are hard to find. Thank you for letting me be part of your journey. I am thinking an praying for you Laura. I love you

Sue Erwin and Kim Wilson

August 9, 2012

Laura and family,
Please know that we were so saddened to hear of your loss. Just know we are keeping you in our prayers.

Pete & Karen Michinock

August 9, 2012

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

Lillian

August 9, 2012

RIP peace Bruce. Praying and Laura, Gavin, Graci and the rest of the family during this difficult time. May God comfort your in a way only He can.

Sridhar Balasubramanian

August 9, 2012

I've been trying my best to overcome the sudden demise of Bruce. He was such an awesome colleague, great inspirator and has been a very close personal friend over the years.

Incidentally, I was one of the interviewers when Bruce decided to re-join LSI (PT team) after being at CA for few years. I still remember and cherish his "thank you" note, that he'd sent me after the interview.

He was very talented individual, and an amazing team player. I keep wondering why life becomes so short for such a kind and loving human being.

In this sorrowful moment, our thoughtful prayers will always be with the bereaved family, enabling them to get over the enormous grief.

August 9, 2012

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May the God of all comfort give you peace and calm during this most difficult time. 2corth 1:3,4

Nash family

August 9, 2012

Our family extends it's deepest sympathy in the loss of Bruce. We never had had the opportunity to know Bruce that well but he made a great impression upon us. He is loved and will be greatly missed by all who met him. He will always live in our hearts and prayers. May the love of friends, family, and the Lord carry you through your grief. Ron and Helen Nash.

Tim Adams

August 9, 2012

Laura
I was so saddened to hear about the loss of Bruce. We didn't know him all that well but it was obvious he had a passion for life and love in his heart.

August 9, 2012

Laura, May God comfort you and your children through the coming days, months and years. You will always be in my prayers.

Charrisse

JLW

August 9, 2012

Good bye my friend. I am praying for the the ones you left behind. God please help them in this grief.
Amen.

Monarez family

August 8, 2012

We are deeply saddened by the death of Bruce.
Bruce was such a kind person, who will be greatly missed by all who knew him. This neighborhood will never be the same. Laura, Gav and Gracie you all are in our thoughts and prayers. RIP Bruce.

Fasil Bantelay

August 8, 2012

Bruce had been my manager for a year. He helped me understand the uniqueness of America in his own personality. He touched a life far away from America because he taught a lot for a man from Ethiopia.

I will be the best friend I can possibly be to your wife, though I know it won't come close to the friend you've been for her.

Charlene Diaz

August 8, 2012

Bruce,
The last thing I said to you was how much I loved hearing you preach, and asked you when your next sermon would be. You smiled, as always, humbly said "Thank You," and said you didn't know when you'd preach again. Six days later you left us. Two days after you left us, I listened to the last sermon you gave in Wichita. Titled, "Lets finish this race." I cry because I will miss you so much. I'm not sad for you, you got the better end of the deal here. But I will miss your smile, your laugh, your adventurous spirit, your love for my family, the look in your eye when you see your wife and kids. So many things. You made us feel so loved from the moment we came to Wichita, 3 short years ago. I have this precious picture in my mind of you forcing yourself to close the tupperware container of Oreos and put them in the fridge before you, or we, ate them all in one sitting! I wasn't sure if you were being disciplined, or didn't want us eating all your Oreos!!! I love you brother, so much. I miss you. Well done. You finished your race, and I will finish mine. See you there!

Kelli Lamar

August 8, 2012

Bruce ..
You helped make God attainable ..
You were easy to Love ..
Inspired me & others to simply Love ..
You were Real & Fun ...
Thru You Bruce & Laura ..
I wanted to be a Better person &
Feel Loved & Worthy as a human being & a child of God..
Thank You for ALL Your Love ..
Strength ..
Fun Spirit ...
Father & Brother like ways ..
For Your Smile
& consistent Love for God .. Laura .. Kids &
Everyone You Encounter ..
I Will Always Remember You ...
Love You Bruce ....

Kathy Sawyer

August 8, 2012

Laura, We love you and Bruce so much and words can not express our sadness. You are in our prayers. find strength in God and remember he is always on your side. Charlie and Kathy Sawyer

a oliverlane

August 8, 2012

You were very important to My husband..a confidante, a leader, a man of the Lord, our hearts & prayers are w your family & friends @ this time..<3

Brix McFee

August 8, 2012

A good friend that will never be forgotten. Awesome husband and wonderful father. I will never forget the times we spent together. You are now with the Lord and I bet enjoying every minute of it.

Hank Kaschalk

August 8, 2012

From a sweet precious little boy to a sweet caring young man. We were so privileged to have had "Brube" as a part of our family for all those years. We will always remember that laugh! Bruce would never fail to come see us whenever he would come back home to visit. For that we are forever thankful. He will always be in our heart as an adopted brother and son. We will never forget him. Our deepest sympathy to Laura and children, Howard and Karen, Doug and family, and Steve and family. You can all be so proud of such a fine young man. I know we are. Our prayers are with all of you.

Hank and Mary Kaschalk

Jennifer Hertha

August 8, 2012

My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. I didn't have the pleasure of knowing you as well as so many others. But, what I knew of you, I know you were a special man. The day I moved away from Wichita, you were one of the few guys from the church that came to help load the truck.. even that simple gesture meant so much to me, and truly showed your serving heart. May those who were touched by you never lose those memories. We now have another angel in heaven looking down upon us. Much love...

November 2003

Jerine Griffith

August 8, 2012

Laura,
I wish that I could be there with you and the kids this weekend; my heart is with you. David will be there. I can't express how truly sorry I am that Bruce is no longer with us in the flesh. The memories I have of the four of us bike riding on Venice Beach and hanging out will never be erased.
We love you and pray for you and the children.
Jerine

Terry Dieker

August 8, 2012

Dear Laura,
My deepest sympathy and prayers go out to you and your family. We were all so sad at PWS to hear this tragic news Monday morning when we came to work! We enjoyed so much visiting with Bruce when he came in the office to pick up Gavin. Gavin's face would just light up when he saw daddy. I know he is going to be missed terribly. So glad you are believers and have the hope and knowledge that you will see him again! May you feel God's loving arms around you.

Leigh (Kaschalk) Nichols

August 8, 2012

My dear "brother" Bruce. Words can't describe how sad I am - a piece of my heart is missing. We grew up together and I have always considered you my brother. I will always remember you with such wonderful memories. Over the past few days those memories have come flooding back. You had a great sense of humor, loved to laugh and had the most wonderful smile. You were an inspiration to so many and you will be sadly missed, more than you could ever know. My heart goes out to Laura and your beautiful children, Gavin and Graci, to your brothers, Doug and Steve, and your father and Karen. May God give them strength and comfort in the days ahead. Love you and miss you already, my dear friend.

"Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in Heaven where the love of our loved ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy."

Ian Schmitt

August 8, 2012

Bruce was an awesome hardworking and loving individual who helped bring people to know and love Jesus Christ. He also worked with people overseas in India. He did many amazing things just from what I have heard, and seen. I literally just hugged him for the first time last week at Men's Congregation, and I was really in shock when I got the call that he was no longer with us. I am deeply saddened for his kids and his wife, as well as his other family members. I'm sorry we didn't get to know each other on a more personal level, Bruce. I hope you are enjoying your time in heaven, and I will see you there someday!

Christopher Hayes

August 8, 2012

My deepest sympathies go out to Laura and the kids. I can honestly say that he was a great example to everyone and he has had an impact on so many people. I will cherish so many memories and am sad that he has left us so soon, but I celebrate the fact he is in heaven.

Fayyaz & Brenda Khan

August 8, 2012

Bruce was a gentle and caring soul that left us way too soon. He always carried a smile that will be missed immensely. Our thoughts and well wishes are with his family in these trying times.

Shonda Peterson

August 8, 2012

So Sorry for you loss, you all are in my prayers

Jason Yeoh

August 8, 2012

I only spoke to Bruce once or twice regarding work. He was the the amazing Manager I ever work with. He treated others with respect and always said "hi" to me at work. God bless your family.

Blerina Halili Boci

August 8, 2012

Laura- I was deeply saddened to hear about Bruce passing away, not sure if you remember me I used to go to Wichita Church of Christ you were my camp counsellor back in 1999, I just remember how sweet you and Bruce were together and the love and respect you had for each other was to be admired. I pray that God gives you comfort during this difficult time, you and your kids are in my thoughts and prayers.

Kim & Luis Salmeron

August 8, 2012

Bruce we will miss you dearly. We will always remember your smile.

Pamela Delaney

August 8, 2012

It was my honor to have had the opportunity to know Bruce and to work with him at NetApp. He was one of the "good guys" - always a smile, always time for others, clearly devoted to Laura and their children and a man who lived his faith. He will be missed and remembered.

Laura, Gavin and Graci, my prayers are with and for you as well as for all whom Bruce touched.

Betty Sherwood

August 8, 2012

Bruce,
You are the son I never had. You will truly be missed by many. I praise God for putting you in my life as you showed me how much fun life can be. You are a true example of what God wants us to become. Never have I met someone as loving or as loved as you are. God bless your family through this difficult time.

Sarah Hoaglan

August 8, 2012

My deepest sympathy to the Matthew's family. Bruce was the most amazing boss, mentor and friend.

I have great memories spending time with his family - - I remember the time I was pushing Gracie on the swing set at their house and she kept yelling, "Higher! Higher!" So, I pushed her a little bit higher and every time I'd look back at Bruce and Laura with this worried look on my face that I was about ready to push my boss's daughter up and over the bars of the swing set. We all laughed about it - she enjoyed the adventure just like her father.

I will miss Bruce greatly and will never forget the positive impact he had on my life - both inside and outside of the office.

Ray Jantz

August 8, 2012

Just wanted to express my sorrow. I am one of Bruce's co-workers who only worked directly with him for a short time. In that short time, it was obvious to me (and to all, I'm sure) that he was a solid, upstanding individual who was a pleasure to work with.

August 8, 2012

We hold nothing but the fondest memories of Bruce in our hearts. Truly he was, and is, a man who loved God and touched all by this same love.

Please know, Laura, that we hold you closely in our prayers and are sending you all the love and comfort we are able to muster.

The Myers'

"Death is but for a time. It cannot separate that which is eternal for love stands above all."

Chris Shroyer(Cober)

August 8, 2012

"Those we've loved the most leave us the very best memories!"
Bruce, you have left us with so many wonderful memories. You were a special childhood friend. I will never forget all of the times the three of us; Doug, Bruce and Chris spent at your house playing tennis, riding bikes, swimming,and watching the movie, Cadishack (more than 20 times). Fond memories of going to Pirates games with your brothers, Bob and the rest of the Cober clan will always be etched in my mind. You were a ray of sunshine and loved by many. I offer my deepest sympathies to your entire family. When I think of you now, I will smile imagining you in heaven with your arms around your loving mother, Joan. May God comfort your family and provide peace.

Kim Adams

August 8, 2012

Dear Matthews family:

Words cannot express my sympathy. I am just at a loss. My heart aches for you all. Keeping you all in my prayers not only now but in the future. What a gift we have all received from God who allowed our lives to be touched by Bruce.

Kim (Witeof) Adams, Class of 88, CTHS

Jim & Amy Cobaugh

August 8, 2012

Our hearts and prayers go out to the entire Matthews family. I remember watching Steve, Doug and Bruce when Bruce was only 5. Now we see a great man, husband, father and a witness to all that met him. Always that big smile. We know you'll be missed.

Linda Kohlen and Connor McCage

Linda Kohlen

August 8, 2012

My heart goes out to the Matthew's family. I lost my dad at a young age. I wanted to say that I know that your faith and your friends will be a great source of comfort at this time. I offer my prayers for strength. Bruce was a loving and compassionate man. He will be dearly missed by all that knew him.

Demetria Adams (Hall)

August 7, 2012

My heart truly goes out to the Matthews family. Bruce and Laura were a blessing in my life and I never forgot them. Bruce is definitely in a better place, I just can't believe that he is gone. Laura, you are in our prayers.

Nicole Baldwin (Kaschalk)

August 7, 2012

My family had the pleasure of growing up with Bruce. We spent so much time together - he was another brother to me and my siblings and another son to my parents. We will never forget his smile, his laughter, his friendship and what a caring and loving person he was. We miss him terribly already. Rest in peace my dear brother and friend. May god bless his entire family through these most difficult days.

Corey Kusher

August 7, 2012

My heartfelt sympathies to the Matthews family. Bruce was a good friend to me through high school. I've had a rush of memories of Bruce over the past few days, and it's hard to accept that he's gone. He's certainly in a better place but, he's left a lot of people missing him. I miss you Bruce.

Michael Konken

August 7, 2012

I don't have the words to completely express what kind of man Bruce was or what he meant to me. Truly a man who loved God, Laura, his kids, and everyone he knew. I have so many fond memories of the time I was blessed to know him. He will truly be missed. My prayers and thoughts are with you Laura, and your family.

Gardilia Rivas

August 7, 2012

Bruce,
How can I convey the sense of loss that I feel? You were a man from whom no one could expect malice or condescension. Your heart was so full of love for others, no matter their walk in life. I will dearly miss your encouraging greeting whenever I'm visiting my Wichita Family. Until we're all celebrating in Heaven, we'll be celebrating you on earth.

Laura,
In my mind and heart, I sit with you. (Job 2:13)

-Gardilia

Debbie Dodson

August 7, 2012

My heart is heavy in hearing of your passing. There is some comfort in knowing where you are - that wonderfully amazing place we all hope to be one day. I pray that your family finds comfort. Rest in peace, dear Bruce. You will be missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing you.

Rob and Janice Penas

August 7, 2012

Our condolence to the Matthews' family, you're in our thoughts and prayers.

Melinda Craft

August 7, 2012

I am still trying to wrap my head around this. Bruce was the kind of person we all want to be. I know he has been crowned with glory, but we are going to miss him so much, I can't even express it in words. Laura, Gav, and Gracie, we love you so much.

Jason & Elly Savoie

August 7, 2012

Faith is how I described your family. Your love for GOD is evident. We sends you our love & sympathy... from the Antelope Valley Church

Jill Odom

August 7, 2012

Words cannot express what kind of a man Bruce was. My sympathy to Laura, the family, and all of the many friends that he had. He will be missed.

Rowley Family

Lisa Rowley

August 7, 2012

Bruce was a great friend, husband, father and disciple of Jesus. Bruce was a shining example of 1Th 2:8 "We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us."

Rowley Family

Lisa Rowley

August 7, 2012

Kristin Richard

August 7, 2012

Bruce was one of my husband's best friends and was in our wedding as a groomsman! We will miss him dearly and are sad to hear of his passing. He was an incredible man of God and we learned so much from him!

Ellie Fox (Wrisley)

August 7, 2012

My memories of Bruce bring a smile to my face; of someone who was so kind, gentle, genuine, loving, fun and mischievous! A man after God's heart. My prayers and thoughts are with you Laura! With all your family.

Jason Niblack

August 7, 2012

Bruce was a shining example of goodness. He was someone I could talk with about anything, and feel comfortable doing so. A wonderful example of how to be a husband and father, and friend. My entire family is thankful to you and yours for everything you did for us in our time of need. You will be missed by many!

Nirmal Kumar

August 7, 2012

My deepest sympathy for Laura and the kids. Praying for you all. Bruce continues to be an inspiration to so many of us. I was touched by his warmth and friendliness. God bless you all

Michael Eck

August 7, 2012

As a neighbor of Bruce's it will be sad not having him around. One of the best people you could ever meet. Always willing to help you on a moments notice without ever asking what was in it for him. If we had more people in the world like Bruce the world would be a much happier and better place to live. RIP buddy you will be missed. The Eck's

Matt Forney

August 7, 2012

Words really cannot express the impact on my life from our friendship. The love and compassion that Bruce exuberated to everyone he came in contact with is something that has affected my life. I will always cherish all the great memories that made me laugh. I will miss you…….

August 7, 2012

Our deepest sympathy goes out to those left behind. David was a great example of a Christian man. He will be deeply missed. He is in his Master's arms now.
In His love, Greg & Anita Cullen

Jason Touchatt

August 7, 2012

I will miss my fellow Steelers fan and one of the best men I have ever known. Bruce, you were truly a man after God's own heart and someone who had a deep impact on everyone you came into contact with. We will miss you but look forward to seeing you in heaven. Love you brother!

Kimentha Wright

August 7, 2012

My deepest sympathy to all of you. May God comfort all of you during this difficult time, and provide His peace which surpasses all understanding.

Kirk McLeod

August 7, 2012

You loved life and adventure & were taken too early while riding the wind. Now you no longer need an air foil or rope - spread your wings and soar my friend! I will always remember you and our time together as brothers, and I miss you terribly. I love you my friend.

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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.

Funeral services provided by:

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10515 W. Maple, Wichita, KS 67209

How to support Bruce's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

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