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Gabriel E. Mattila
Gabriel E. Mattila
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Gabriel Mattila Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.
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Michael Mattila
February 20, 2020
Love You Uncle Gabe! I miss you!
Michel Mattila
February 20, 2020
Love You Uncle Gabe!
Ranny Mattila
November 14, 2012
Love you brother & miss you
Michael B
September 29, 2012
A good man and a friend. Four years but you are still remembered.
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Amy Higgins
September 6, 2012
I have been thinking of you a lot, especially this time of year.
Christian Mattila
June 24, 2012
Love and miss you Gabe.
Mary Khan
July 4, 2009
Hiwett and David, I just found out tonight through Robyn that Gabe has passed. My heart goes out to you. Gabe was very passionate about life. His devotion to his family went farther than any family ties could bind. I miss you guys.
zowdi O'Ryan
January 27, 2009
My Mom Askalu G. told me about Gabriel passing. so sorry to hear that. God Bless your family. My prayers go out to you.
Zowdi O'Ryan and family.
kevin peterson
November 10, 2008
I just found out and My thoughts and prayers go to the mattila family. gabe was fun and I will never forget that smile of his. He will be shooting 3's forever
Darcy Olson
October 10, 2008
Wow i was so deeply taken back when i found out about Gabe's passing! Such an amazing MAN! Always trying to put a smile on his face and others around him. His spirits too, he loved his family so much. If he had nothing else to keep him going please know he drew from the strength of you guys!!! I admire him and will always smile when I think of granolia!! May the thought of knowing that he is pain free help ease the rough days that follow this path!!!
MEHARI WOLDESLASSIE
October 3, 2008
IT WAS WITH DEEP REGRET I LEARNT ABOUT THE SAD DEMISE OF YOUR BELOVED SON GABRIEL. I WAS FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO VISIT HIM WHEN HE WAS IN THE UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL. I EXPRESS MY HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES ON THIS SAD OCCASION. MAY THE DEPARTED SOUL REST IN PEACE.
Betty Willard
September 29, 2008
To the family of Gabriel,
My deepest sympathy is being extended in the loss of your precious family member Gabriel. I worked with Sharron at ATK, and she shared with me the tremendous struggle that he went through. While I never met Gabe, he sounds like an amazing man and my heart goes out to all of you.
Kurt Knutson
September 29, 2008
Mattila Family,
I hold a very special place in my heart for Gabe and you all. Gabe was the greatest of friends. I will cherish always the memories, his attitude, and strength.
Best of Friends
September 29, 2008
Gabe, 05/24/1997
September 29, 2008
Jim Sapp
September 27, 2008
Dave & Family
Saw your son's notice in the paper and wanted your to know we have thought of you often. God's Grace to you during this time.
Michelle (Jansen) Radermacher
September 26, 2008
To the Mattila family,
I was saddened by the news of Gabe's passing. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with your family through this difficult time.
James Jackson
September 26, 2008
Sept. 26, 2008
My wife and I were deeply saddened by the news of Gabe's passing. Gabe was one of the kindest and sincere people that my wife and I have had the privilege of knowing. Gabe spent many hours at our home. My wife Panetta loved to have him in for meals, because he always loved to eat and comment on how good the meal was. Gabe was almost like a son to us. We loved to sit around and talk about our families. Gabe loved and cared about everyone. He always called and asked us how we were doing. Gabe was always there, when we needed a hand. He showed so much love and compassion for my wife, when she went through some serious health issues.
We were so proud of Gabe, when he was selected for the job with ICE. He worked so hard to get the job. Gabe was a pleasure to work with, and he will be dearly missed by Panetta and I. We know that he is now in the presence of our lord, and he is now free of pain. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Mattila family.
James and Panetta Jackson
Joshua and Dana Mattila
September 26, 2008
The Mattila family is very grateful to all of you for your thoughts, prayers, and support.
Gabriel touched many lives, and was the best brother, son, uncle, and true friend to all.
It is evident by reading all of the wonderful posts on this site, and the caringbridge site, that Gabriel was loved and respected by many all across the nation.
On behalf of the Mattila family, I would like to thank each and every one of you. We truly appreciate your support.
Thank you
Jacqueline (Sowada) Mulder
September 26, 2008
Dear Mattila Family,
I’m so saddened to hear the passing of Gabe. I went to high school with Gabe and I remember that he was such a joy to be around and always had a smile on his face. My thoughts and prayers go to you and your family during this difficult time.
Michael Brusacoram
September 25, 2008
When I lived in Int'l Falls, Gabe would come over for dinner once in awhile and we loved to have him over. His laughter was infectious and my lone daughter at the time - Annabelle - was instantly drawn to him. I remember one night it was getting late and we decided to go to a movie after dinner. The house I was renting had a small half-step at the bottom of the porch stairs and it was dark. Gabe took a hard fall onto the concrete but bounced right up as if nothing had happened, despite the sickening crack we all heard. I asked him if he was okay, and he just smiled, saying, "I'm fine, Mike, no problem, no problem." and he gave me the typical Gabe-slap to the back. We went to the movies and I noticed him fidgeting throughout the movie, yet he didn't say a word or complain. About a week later, at work, Gabe admitted to me that his ankle had swollen to twice its size and it was killing him the entire night! But he didn't say a word. He didn't want my wife or I to worry about him. That was Gabe...
Rev. Galen and Nancy Judy
September 25, 2008
To Gabe's Wondeful Family and Friends,
Our hearts are truly sorry for the loss of such a wonderful. loving and caring man! We met Gabe through our son and daughter-in-law- Jon and Jenny Judy while visiting in Int'l Falls, Minn. (They named their 1st born son Gabriel).
Gabe was known as a man of honor, trust and loyalty. What a wonderful legacy to leave behind.
Our church has and will continue to have Gabe and His wonderful family in prayer.
We are reassured that Gabe is in the arms of Our Loving Lord, and is free from all pain. God Bless your family.
Roxanna
September 25, 2008
I am sorry to hear of this loss. I was Gabe's classmate for criminal investigative training in 2006 and had the pleasure of spending a great amount of time with him. I always thought Gabe was such a beautiful person. He had great energy and positivity about him. I remember trying to teach him how to salsa dance one night. He was so much fun to be around and had such a sweet and gentle heart. He would always pump us all up and had the best attitude about life. Gabe, you will always be in my thoughts and we will all see you again someday.
Megan Green
September 25, 2008
I had the pleasure of meeting Gabe during training at FLETC. He was a wonderful man. My deepest sympathy to the Mattila family.
Denise Thales
September 25, 2008
Dear Mattila Family,
Words can not describe the loss of a son, brother,uncle and friend. Gabe was a amazing person. He will be missed dearly by so many. May God comfort you during this difficult time. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Love Jude, Denise, Regina & Ricky Thales
Beth (Fricke) Johnson
September 25, 2008
Dear Mattila Family,
I am so sorry to hear of Gabe's passing. He was a great person and a joy to know. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you find the strength to carry you through this difficult time.
Lisa Reinken
September 25, 2008
Mattila Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Gabe was a great person and i am honored to have known him. I have very fond memories of Gabe. When we moved to the neighborhood, there were not any kids my son's age around, but Gabe, Josh & Christian would take him out any play catch with him, take him to the park to play B-ball. Gabe is no longer in pain, sitting at the right hand of the Lord. His physical presence will surely be missed.
God Bless your family.
Joe and Kathy Ornellas
September 24, 2008
Gabriel was a wonderful man with a good heart and a warm smile. He walked into the waiting arms of God and our Lord cradled him and smiled. Gabriel isn't in pain anymore. My heart goes out to his family. May God bless all of you everyday with beautiful memories of your son and brother Gabe. We will see him again in Heaven.
Gabe and me (Barry Street) in International Falls, MN.
September 24, 2008
Derrik Olson
September 24, 2008
Dear Mattila family,
I use to work with Gabe from time to time when we would do container inspections on the railroad, it was a pleasure to see his smile come pulling up knowing the work that was ahead of us. We had alot of laughs together & it was my privilage to meet Gabe and to know him. I am so sorry for your loss & may god be with you in your time of need. May the lord be with you always.
Lisa Davis
September 24, 2008
Dear Mattila Family: I really enjoyed taking care of Gabe when he came into the hospital-we usually ended the evening with a good laugh and I will truely miss his smile. I am thinking of you and praying for your family.
Jim and Toni Kellner
September 24, 2008
No mere words can possibly comfort you in the loss of your son Gabriel, but please know that our thoughts, prayers and tears are with you now.
Angie (Lotze) Lepsch
September 24, 2008
Dear Mattila Family,
How sad to hear of your loss, a young guy. I remember him in school to have such a great sense of personal intergrity; not all display that so young. Gabriel is a beautiful name--our youngest is a Gabriel too.
Would have liked to have visited your family in person, but did not hear in time. Would have liked to show support for Christian, who happened to be in more classes with me in school, and Josh, who had Spanish with us. All of you are in my prayers. We can all pray and look forward to the day we get to see Gabriel's smile again in heaven.
All of my love to your family.
Jill (Burton) Nuebel
September 24, 2008
Mattila Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I have been following Gabe's journey on the caringbridge website. I was very saddened to hear of his death. My thoughts and prayers will continue to be with your family.
Tiffanie (Lowe) Ferance
September 24, 2008
Christian & Josh, I am so sorry to hear of your brothers passing. Please know that you/your family are in my thoughts and prayers. xoxo
Gabe's going away party, I'Falls
Marie Coulter
September 24, 2008
Dear Mattila Family,
There aren't enough words to properly describe just how wonderful Gabe was, he was such an amazing guy. I remember so many fond memories of my time in Int'l Falls working with him, as well as outside of work. He was always so kind and outgoing and would always be there to lend a hand and help out if you needed it. So strong, so thoughtful, and never judging, he was always there to listen and offer support and friendship. I remember so many times when he would talk about his family, so lovingly and with such pride; he was so blessed to have you all as his support, it meant the world to him. I remember how happy he was when he found out he was moving back home when he got offered the job with ICE; he couldn't wait to be with everyone. I miss him dearly already, and I can't even imagine just how hard this is for all of you. Take comfort in knowing just how many lives he's touched and will forever be apart of. I will carry only the fondest memories of Gabe, and I loved him dearly. May you all find peace and comfort during this time of sadness, and know that Gabe is no longer suffering. His memories will live on forever...
Peggy Kowal
September 24, 2008
Dear Mattila Family,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My heart and prayers go out to you.
Tedros Gebre
September 24, 2008
Our prayers, our thoughts, our tears, our hearts go out to you and your family.
Tedros and Gosia Gebre (Columbia Heights, MN)
September 24, 2008
Love you Uncle Gabe.
September 24, 2008
Chris Golob
September 24, 2008
Dave, Hewit, Ranny, Christian and Joshua - how deeply sadden are we all by the death of a wonderful and beautiful person. We all loved his charisma, smile, energentic love and nature for family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all of us. Our prayers, love and thoughts go out to all of you. Sorry I (Chris) cannot make the service. Please let us know if we can do anything for you and your family. We love you! Chris, Carl, Jackie, Joey and Danuta Rajtar.
Tim McCollow
September 24, 2008
Mattila Family,
Our heartfelt sympathy to you all!
Erny & Deb have shared many wonderful Mattila Family memories with us....
Let these memories help you through tough times ahead.... find peace in knowing Gabe's suffering is over and take comfort in the love of each other.
With Our Love & Deepest Sympathy,
Tim & Mary Jo McCollow & Family
Steve Rajtar
September 24, 2008
To the entire Mattila Family, Dave, Hiwet, Ranny, Joshua and Christian, i am deeply sorry for the loss or your son and brother Gabriel, growing up the boys were the little brothers i never had and we had alot of fun times growing up as neighbors and freinds, you all with be in my thoughts and prayers and I am sorry for not be able to attend the services.
thank you and god gless with love
Steven Rajtar and Family
Alex Ascencio
September 24, 2008
What can I say about Gabe that everyone else hasn’t already? He is a wonderful person with a great heart and integrity that everyone should strive for. What I can tell you is that Gabe was a great friend to me, and most impressively he made me feel like a great friend to him. I say this because I have been known to keep an arms length away from people, never getting to close. But with Big Gabe that was impossible, his friendly smile, up beat personality and his personal goal to ensure that everyone around him was doing ok and in a good spirits made him loved by everyone. As one of our class mates mentioned earlier Gabe was always the one to break the silence during a mood point and turn it around with his infectious laugh and great humor. In a profession were we sometimes see the worst in people it was and will continue to be a fresh of breath air knowing that people like Gabe are among us making this world a better place. Gabe, my brother I look forward to the day that we can share a laugh again in heaven. Until then I will cherish every moment we shared together. I will miss you.
MAHARI TESFAI
September 24, 2008
DEARE MATILLA FAMILY:
We are very sorry to hear of your loss.GABRIEL was the right hand of the family, helping his dad & mom at chili time with his great smile, working hard to please every one.
you will be missed.
GOD be with you and your family.
MAHARI,SEWIT,HANOS & SEM-(TESFAI family)
Christine Gillen
September 24, 2008
My thoughts and prayers go out to Gabe's family. So sorry for your loss.
Ruth & Rebecca Asbu
September 23, 2008
Dear Mattila Family:
We are so sorry to hear of this tremendous loss. Please accept our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We know his spirit and his memory will live and resonate in all of you. God be with you Dave, Hiwet, Ranny, Joshua, Christian, as well as his beautiful nieces and nephews. We miss you Gabriel!
Kay Mayer
September 23, 2008
To the Mattila Family,
We are saddened to learn of Gabe's death.
You are in our hearts and prayers during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Gary & Kay Mayer
(Eric's Mom & Dad)
Hidaat Ephrem
September 23, 2008
Dear Dave, Hiwet, Ranny, Christian, and Joshua.
It seems only like yesterday that I remember the triplets running around as toddlers. Quite a handful but filled the house with laughter. My heart breaks tonight to learn that Gabriel has passed away. There are no words I can say to comfort you in this darkest hour. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. May God give you the strength to withstand the pain.
With deepest sympathy.
Becky McCollow
September 23, 2008
To the entire Mattila family,
It has been an honor to be Gabes nurse and getting to know him and your family. I hope you will find some peace in the days to come.
Becky M, RN
Barry Street
September 23, 2008
The first time I met Gabe, it was when he poked his head in the supervisor's office to let everyone know he was back from FLETC and to just say hi. From that day on, whenever I was around gabe, my day was great. I look forward to working shifts with gabe. He was always bright and energetic. Hands down, Gabe was the best person I have ever worked with.
When my son was born, Gabe was one of the first to congratulate me and when he held him, it was as if he was holding his own son. He brought such happiness to my family while we were in International Falls.
Gabe, I miss you, man. But, knowing Heavenly Father has you in his presence now, that helps take some of the pain away, knowing that you are in good hands.
Dear Mattila family, please know you are in our prayers. Gabe was wonderful person. I know my life is better for having had the priveledge to know and work with him.
Gabe, my man, until we meet again. Know Amy, Jacob, and I love you!
Barry Street
US Customs & Border Protection
Dallas, TX
The cowboy's
Jonathon and Jennifer Judy
September 23, 2008
Dear Matilla family, I am so very sorry for your tremendous loss. Gabe was a wonderful, caring, loving person who was always there for you. We met Gabe in International Falls, MN back in 2003 Jon and Gabe were work buddies for Customs. Gabe was a big part of our lives in the Falls. We have so many nice memories of him. He always made us laugh, I can still hear him laughing and joking with us. We will truly miss him. Our prayers are with you all. May you find peace. Now we have one more Angel looking down upon us. love the Judy's
Senait,Yohanna,Winta,Freweini,Tsega Gebre
September 23, 2008
We are very sad to hear about Gabe's passing...he was a very kind, positive person who always made you laugh!!!And anyone who didn't know him missed out on a very good guy.No matter what Gabe will always be in our hearts..WE LOVE YOU!!
Renee Gast
September 23, 2008
My heart weeps for Gabe's loss. Your family is in my hearts and prays.
Donna Nguyen
September 23, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of your family. Josh, if there is anything I can do just ask.
Stacy Welle
September 23, 2008
I was in school with Gabe and enjoyed watching him play basketball. I am so sorry to hear about Gabe's passing. Your family is in my thoughts in this sad time.
Russ Blanck
September 23, 2008
Josh and all of the Mattila family: I am very sorry to hear of your loss. May you find comfort in each other at this difficult time. Srgt. Russ Blanck, Centennial Lakes PD
Kimberly Strong
September 23, 2008
There are no words... Please just know that I am thinking of you.
Jim Lewis
September 23, 2008
Gabe was an amazing person in every aspect. I'll always remember his sense of humor and the way that he would always put others before himself. I share this story from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Special Agent Training Program:
On the day that we started a long stretch on the confusing topic of Immigration Law, Gabe and several others took the opportunity to chat during a much needed break. There was a lull in the conversation as nobody wanted to admit that they didn't understand the topic for the day. Gabe could see the tension and confusion in our eyes and quickly stated, "How the heck did we get this job. I don't know about you guys but I have no idea what that guy is talking about." It brought about enough laughter to get us through the day.
I'll miss you my friend,
Jim Lewis
Ron Laabs
September 23, 2008
Dave, You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers, on the loss of Gabriel.
Nicole
September 23, 2008
It is still so new & all we see is the empty space, but that is not how it is in the landscape of the heart. There, there is no empty space & he still laughs & grapples with ideas & plans & nods wisely with each of us in turn. We are proud to have known him. We are proud to have called him friend. ~Brian Andreas
Gabe will be very missed.
Sonny Kilmer
September 23, 2008
Gabe was one of most sincere and genuine people I have ever had the pleasure of working with, or to have known for that matter. He will be missed. Our prayers are with you and your family during this trying time.
September 23, 2008
Ranny, we are so sad to hear of the loss of your brother. Losing a family member is one of the hardest parts of life. Enjoy life and share your love with your family. Our thoughts are with you and your family. May peace be with you.
Dawn (Curtis) Everling
September 23, 2008
I am so sorry to hear of Gabriel's death. I was a teacher at Nelson Elementary and Central Middle School, and have fond memories of all the Mattila brothers. With sympathy~
Stacy Schmidt
September 23, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you for your loss. Gabe was a wonderful man and I feel blessed to have known him!
Lisa Flatten
September 23, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family in this very difficult time. We are thinking about you. Love, Jeremy, Lisa, Emily and Olivia Flatten
Ricardo Rocha
September 23, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Angela Meyen Fye
September 23, 2008
The Mattila Family,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family in this very difficult time. May your great memories of Gabe comfort you.
September 23, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Mattila family. Gabe was an amazing person with an amazing personality. May you feel God's presence at this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
The Metcalf's
Reggie, Jennifer, Brooke, Micah & Dylan
Patrick Flannery
September 23, 2008
God bless you and your family has our warmest sympathy, you all are in our prayers.
Michael Kuhn
September 23, 2008
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts are with your family during this difficult time.
While we are mourning the loss of our fellow special agent and comrade others are rejoicing to meet him behind the veil.
Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in Heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines upon us to let us know they are happy.
Michael E. Kuhn
Resident Agent In Charge
RAC Sioux City, Iowa
Pastor Kerry Bender
September 23, 2008
It was a privileage to meet Gabriel and your family. I will continue to pray for your family. Please let me know if there is anything else that I can do.
Mark and Almaz Kowal
September 23, 2008
Gabe will be truly missed by everyone who knew him. He had a big heart and a warm smile. He loved Almaz's cooking and we always knew that we could entice him over with offers of Kulwa and Shiro. We'll think of him often and when we do we'll smile. We'll smile because he made our lives better and he'll continue to do so each time we think of him. He'll be a part of us always.
Barbara Kennedy
September 23, 2008
Dear Mattila Family-
My heart is absolutely shattered by your loss. Gabe touched so many lives during his short life. I feel truly honored to have been blessed with his friendship and I loved him like a brother. His smile will be forever etched in my memory. Gabe will live on through all of his family and friends who loved him so deeply. I offer my most sincere condolences to your entire family and I will hold you close to my heart.
Donna Beecroft
September 23, 2008
Lorraine, Ted and I are so sorry to learn of Gabriel's passing. His suffering is over at last. May the light of God bless you and your family during this time of sorrow.
Libby Cichosz
September 23, 2008
Gabe was such a trooper these last 10 months. He always showed his gratitude for the love and support of his family and friends. My prayers are with your family at this time.
September 23, 2008
Myself and family wish to extend our deepest condolences. Gabe will be remebered as a kind and good man.
The Dan Olson Family
Amy Kroth
September 23, 2008
My prayers are with your family. Your friends here at AKAL Security send their thoughts and prayers. Josh hang in there....
Donnetto DeAntoni
September 23, 2008
I am saddened to hear of this. My heart goes out to his family and friends. What I remember most of Gabriel is his insistent smile and energy, always positive and always pushing forward! He will survive in memory.
Nazeem Mohamed
September 23, 2008
Words are inadequate to fully express how we feel on the passing of Gaberial Mattila. We can only imagine the awful pain and deep sorrow that you, the family, is now experiencing. If there is any comfort in Gabe's untimely death it is the fact that he has lived an exemplary life, filled with rich blessings and aspiring ambitions.
On behalf of the Mohamed's family(Nazeem,Lelet,Bonita,Sibini and Justin)we offer our deepest sympathy and hope that during this critical time your family will find comfort in the one(God)who cares.
Joel Andrychowicz
September 23, 2008
My thoughts and prayer are with his family and those who were close to Gabe. He was a great person and will be missed.
Arthur Ross
September 23, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
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