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Matthew Paul Whalen
Matthew Paul Whalen
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Matthew Whalen Obituary
Matthew was a graduate of Clinton Community College, obtaining degrees in Information Technology and Liberal Arts. He was a member of Phi Theta Kappa, a national honor society. Matthew graduated with honors and was a member of the President's List last semester. He went to a Billy Joel Concert on April 22, meeting Billy Joel through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Matthew enjoyed computers and video games.
Matthew is survived by his parents, Lawrence and Ann Whalen of Plattsburgh; a brother and sister, Patrick Whalen of Plattsburgh, Susan Whalen of Plattsburgh; his paternal grandmother, M. Lena Whalen of Plattsburgh; many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Matthew was predeceased by his paternal grandfather, Lawrence Whalen Sr.; his maternal grandparents, Mildred and Paul Jason; and his step-grandfather, Romeo Barsalou.
A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Thursday, Aug. 3, 2006, at 11 a.m. from St. Peter's Church in Plattsburgh. Burial will follow in St. Peter's Cemetery in Plattsburgh.
Special thanks to Dr. Alan Homans, Dr. Keith Robinson, Dr. Thomas Roland, Dr. Bruce Tramner, Penny Degoosh and the staff of the Vermont Children's Hospital.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Vermont Children's Hospital, Development Office, 111 Colchester Ave., Burlington, VT 05401.
Arrangements are with Brown Funeral Home in Plattsburgh.
This obituary was originally published in the Press Republican.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
A Friend
July 5, 2021
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Susan Whalen
June 29, 2013
Happy early birthday. I miss you!
Wendy Pelletier
October 28, 2007
Ann, I really wish that I had had the opportunity to get to know Matthew. I can tell from what I've been reading, and from the photo album, that he was an extraordinary young man. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to get to know him through this site.
Wendy
Mom
July 5, 2007
Happy Birthday Matthew, we love & miss you so much!!! You are in our thoughts every waking moment. Today , July 5, 2007, would be your 24th birthday. We are having a mass said at 12:05. Father John is away but Mons. Aucoin or another priest will be saying a mass just for you from your grandma.. I love you my son,
Keith Robinson
March 29, 2007
Dear Ann, Larry, Patrick and Susan,
Even though months have passed since we lost Matt, I still think about him. I will always remember his friendly personality, honesty, sense of humor, intellect, and love of his family. He loved you all so much. You gave him strength to fight and keep that famous positive outlook. He was a true joy to get to know and befriend. You have taught me the power of healing and love. I will always remember you and Matt. Thank you for letting me share Matt and the happiness he brought to everyone he met.
Kathy & Marlin
November 4, 2006
we love you matthew!
Alexandra Thomsen
September 13, 2006
I only had the pleasure of meeting Matthew a couple of times, but his engaging personality and love of life were easy to see. He clearly touched many people at the hospital with his courage, attitude and approach to life. His visits to clinic will be missed by everyone here. My thoughts are with all of you.
Thomas Roland
August 30, 2006
Dear Ann,Larry, Susan and Patrick, I will never forget your special son and brother. He touched us all deeply and from the beginning we knew he was very special. Your support and love showed us what a real family was all about and he knew how lucky he was to have you always by his side.I felt as though he and I had a special rapport too, even if I didn't get him to eat that broccoli. In this time of sadness for you all,I hope you take heart in knowing that you are a wonderful family and that Matthew will always be in your presence. I know that I will always remember him with great fondness. My best wishes to you all. Dr Tom
Lauren Lloyd
August 30, 2006
Dear Larry,Ann,Patrick & Susan,
I wish to tell you what a blessing it was to have Matthew in our lives. For such a young man he had so many great qualities. In his own way he was a great teacher. He showed great kindness, patience and such understanding for his age. He certainly left a mark on everyone that knew him. I believe God walked with Matthew to give him the strength to go through all he endured with so many obstacles that were put in his way. One thing we can be sure of is we have an angel in heaven watching out for us.
God Bless and all my prayers,
Love, Lauren
Trish Ward-LaFountain
August 27, 2006
Ann, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. I wish that I had known things had taken another bad turn. I've been so sick myself that I haven't been on-line keeping in touch with everyone like I should. Matt was very special to me. He was such a joy to have around. Clinton Community would not have been as much fun without his presence. He had an amazing artistic talent that I envied. What special young man! I will miss him. Thank you so much for letting me know. I just wish I had known sooner.
Jenny Hoelter
August 23, 2006
Dear Ann, Larry, Susan and Patrick,
My thoughts are with you these past few weeks, as you mourn the loss of Matthew--such a brave young man. I'll miss Matthew's sense of humor and his strength, but most of all his kindness and wisdom beyond his years. I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to know Matthew for a short time, and am priviledged to have cared for him. I'll never forget Matthew!
Penny DeGoosh
August 22, 2006
Ann, Larry, Susan and Patrick,
I remember Dr. Homans telling me about Matthew before I met him; he said "you're going to love him" and he was right. What struck me upon my first meeting with Matthew was that he was an extremely kind and warm young adult with such a positive attitude! What a role model he was for all, to face his disease with such grace, it is but one of the many wonderful attributes about Matthew I respected.
I remember last Christmas Matthew asking me what he could do for the patients of Vermont Children's Hospital. He said he wanted to "give back" because everyone had been so good to him. So after careful research, he purchased a video game for patients to enjoy during their time at the hospital. He brought it to clinic and did not want any fanfare over his thoughtful gift.
I will always remember Matthew, he has a special place in my heart, as do all of you. The world is a better place because he was in it and I am so fortunate for having known him.
Kathy Morton
August 16, 2006
Ann,Larry,Susan,Patrick
I am so sorry for your loss. Matthew was always so considerate of others. I remember when he helped me get a computer problem fixed by e-mail when I couldn't figure out the problem. He kept e-mailing me things to try until we fixed the problem. He took the time out of his busy day with work and school to help me through this. And I remember the time he came to visit me and didn't tell me he was allergic to cats because he didn't want to offend me, although he was sitting there sneezing his head off. That is the kind of person Matthew was, always thinking of someone else's feelings instead of himself. I just want you to know that he will be missed very much. Your cousin, Kathy
Al Homans
August 15, 2006
Ann,Larry,Susan and Patrick-
It has been a privilege to help care for Matthew! I admire and respect the way he did not let his illness interfere with his plans and education! We'll miss his smile and clever come backs in clinic. I was broken hearted to hear that his tumor had gotten the best of him. I hope we can all meet our end with such courage!
- Dr Al
Mom
August 8, 2006
To my brave & wonderful son MATTHEW
You never complained about your illness. You always said that somebody was worse off then you were. You were going through radiation & chemo, yet you contined to get A's & managed to get invited to become a member of ' Phi Theta Kappa' & make the 'Presidents list' even though somedays you did not feel so well. But you continued to 'go with the flow'. You always thought of others, such as the children at FAHC knowing they too were going through chemo & radiation. We miss you more then words can say. We love you so very much:
We will miss you in the morning
As we start another day.
We will always think about you
& wonder why you went away.
When the word is on the wire
& the dust is in the wind
We will searh our mind & think of you.
When the sun comes up like fire & the fire will burns our eyes, Something in you tells you that it's hardest in the morning, how time drags on.
August 7, 2006
The Whalen family,
Just know that our hearts are with you for this difficult time. Matthew was fighter,lasting this long. He as inspired us to live life to the fullest.
And now a poem written by stef:
Sometimes the pain is just too hard to bear.
It makes me wonder if you're really there.
In the first place, I don't know why you went away.
when I first heard, I didn't know what to say.
That day, you threw everyone off guard
Also, tore everybody apart
It seems your time hear just wasn't long enough
But the way you had to go was just really really rough
Since you've been gone, it hasn't been the same
You woke everybody up, making us somewhat sane
This day I will never forget
In my time knowing you, there isn't anything I regret
It'll never be forgotten, this day
And I hope I'll see you again someday.
Hope you enjoy that poem.
We made a donation in Matthew's memory.
If you need anything at all, please let us know
With Love,
Wayne,Ann,Stefani,and Rachel Lamora
JOAN BUX
August 7, 2006
TO MY DEAREST EMAIL FRIENDS. I AM VERY VERY SORRY TO HEAR OF YOUR LOSS.
MATTHEW I DIDNT KNOW YOU FOR VERY LONG BUT YOU HAVE BEEN IN MY THOUGHTS FOR THE SHORT TIME I DID. I RANG YOU WHEN YOU WERE IN HOSPITAL TO WISH YOU WELL.
DEATH IS SLEEP WITHOUT THE PAIN,
SLEEP ON MATTHEW UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN. JOAN BUX, AUSTRALIA
Laura Brubaker
August 7, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with you & your entire family as you grieve the loss of Matthew.
I only met Matthew briefly when he came to meet Billy Joel at the Civic Center and also didn't have the privilege of really getting to know him, but could tell just from spending a little bit of time with him that he was a kind and fun-loving young man with a courageous spirit.
You are in my thoughts & prayers,
Laura Brubaker
The Hartford Civic Center
Marissa Skibbe
August 7, 2006
My deepest sympathy to you and your family during this difficult time. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
As I only met Matthew for a brief time and didn’t have the privilege to really get to know him, I could tell he had such an amazing soul. It was such an honor to meet him and help him to fulfill one of his dreams. I will never forget the expression on his face when he met Billy Joel.
All my best,
Susan Whalen
August 7, 2006
I want to thank everyone for being so supportive of me and my family during this hard time.
Like every one has been saying to me,
I'm sure Matthew is looking down on us right now, and we have to remember him like he was, happy, funny, and brave.
He now knows just how many people whom his life has touched.
Brian and Sue Dench
August 7, 2006
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Please try and remember the good times.
Jan (Jazz) Lucke
August 6, 2006
Ann, Larry, Patrick and Susan,
Words can't express how sorry I am at the loss of Matthew. God wanted him just as he wanted Gene. All of Pitneyville will be here to support you in your great loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Rosemary Primeaux
August 6, 2006
I met Matthew in July of 2004, and we instantly became friends. I consider myself very fortunate to have had his friendship and love for over two years. He was a remarkable young man. Thank you for sharing him with me.
Matt before show began backstage, Hartford Civic Center, Hartford, Ct. 04/22/06
August 6, 2006
Matt during show, 4/22/06 Hartford, ct.
August 6, 2006
Matt during concert while Billy Joel dedicated 'We Didn't Start the Fire' 4/22/06 at Hartford Civic Ceneter Hartford, Ct.
August 6, 2006
Matt giving Billy Joel gifts from Vt. Childrens Hospital, from Penny DeGoosh , Dr Alan Homans & staff 4/22/06 at Hartford Civic Center.
August 6, 2006
Sue LaMora
August 6, 2006
Ann and Larry, Matt was a special person to me, I will alway remember that little smile of his when he was trying to "get me", and our talks when we were waiting for you to pick him up after work. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. I know Matt is not suffering any more and he is in a far better place. Dave and Sue LaMora
James Taylor
August 5, 2006
All my thoughts and prayers to you in this time of loss.
I had the pleasure of working with Matt for several months in Sam's Club Cafe', and during that time, we had become friends. We talked often about his college courses, movies, music, video games, and much more.
During our time working together, Matt and I had faced many different kinds of customers on a daily basis. We often shared and reminisced about members that would become angry for the smallest of reasons. Matt always reacted with kind-hearted frustration with these people, and always softened his frustration with a joke. You see, Matt truly knew how people should treat other people, with respect and with kindness. I never saw him waver from that, and I always respected that in him.
He was a genuinely nice guy, and I will miss his witty sense of humor, his honesty, our conversations, and his friendship.
I hope that you find joy and peace in the memories, as I am sure I will.
All my best,
Matthew before concert began at Hartford Civic Center, Hartford, Ct 4/22/06
August 5, 2006
Billy Joel & band members 4/22/06
August 5, 2006
Matt holding Billy Joel cd that was autographed 4/22/06 at concert in Hartford ,Ct.
August 5, 2006
Matthew & his dad holding song list, & poster..4/22/06 Hartford Civic Center, Hartford, Ct.
August 5, 2006
Matt & Dr. Keith Robinson at Billy Joel concert 4/22/06 Thanks Keith for sharing the concert with Matthew!!!
August 5, 2006
Matt & Billy Joel 4/22/06
August 5, 2006
Allan, Tina, Emily and Hayden LeFevre
August 3, 2006
Dear Ann,Larry,Susan and Patrick,
Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this sad and difficult time. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Emily wrote a little something about Matthew, Matthew Whalen, an inspriring young man! Remember Matthew throughout each day. Never let his spirit die. Celebrate his life! Take comfort in knowing that he is no longer suffering. He is in a wonderful world, where suffering doesn't exist. The angels in heaven will open the gates to welcome him home. It seems as though he has left you, but he hasn't. His spirit can now fill your hearts and home. Don't mourn for his death, celebrate his life and embrace his inspiration to never give up, because he never did!
Beth Friesen
August 3, 2006
Dear Whalen Family-
I enjoyed so very much taking care of your wonderful son. His great attitude and positive thinking allowed him to have the many good days he had despite his illness and the chemo. The wonderful part about my job is meeting folks like you! Matthew had a wonderful family and it was my honor to care for him!
take care -
Beth Friesen, CPNP
Sharon Sottile
August 3, 2006
Dear Ann, Lawrence and family,
My deepest sympathy on the loss of your dear son Matthew.
I am a fellow member of the Gene Pitney/Aussie group and wanted to express my support to Ann and family.
I have sent prayers for Matthew and will continue to send prayers for your comfort at this very difficult time.
With sincere sympathy,
Mrs. Newell
August 3, 2006
Patrick, Susan and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Please know you are loved and supported through this time of loss. May Christ's presence bring you peace.
Yvonne Gleeson
August 3, 2006
Dear Ann & Family,
Such a sad time for you all, such a beautiful young life now in the hands of a higher realm.
I can only send you my love and prayers.
I know you must have your family and friends around you in this time of need, but if there is anything I can do for you please let me know.
All our love
Yvonne Gleeson and Family
(Cairns, Australia).
Sheila Marshall
August 3, 2006
A very brave man. You will be greatly missed by everyone. God Bless you Matthew.
Susan and Brian Briscoe
August 3, 2006
Dearest Ann, Larry, Patrick and Susan.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all at this very sad time.
We prayed so hard that Matthew would recover but God must have wanted him for some higher purpose with him in heaven. He is now your Guardian Angel smiling down on you all.
Know that we are with you in thoughts even though we are far away. Love always.
Sister Kathleen DeBoalt
August 2, 2006
Dear Whalen family, I happened to look at the Press Repubican online today and saw Matthew's name. I couldn't believe it! I didn't know that he was sick. Please know that all of you are in my prayers. I remember Matthew so well in first grade and after that too. I know he will be greatly missed by all of you.
Catherine M. Gooley
August 2, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
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