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Matthew Chew Obituary
A graveside service will be held at 9:30 a.m. Friday at Dean Cemetery in Canterbury, followed by a celebration of Matthew's life at 11 a.m. at All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church, New London. Calling hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday at Byles Memorial Home, 99 Huntington St., New London.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations in his memory to The Hygienic Arts, 79 Bank St., New London CT 06320.
A complete obituary will be published in Wednesday's edition and also at www.Byles.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Chew
Sponsored by Ray and Jean Stanis.
Dan B
February 8, 2025
I still carry many memories of Matt. From making TMNT stick weapons at 8yo, to trying to watch a movie in his room in the basement while the music drowned everything out (sorry, Mr. Chew), to the Halloween parties at his apartments. I'll never forget you, my friend.
Rebecca Lundberg
October 27, 2019
Matthew, you will always have a place in my heart. RIP, Rebecca Lundberg
And to your family... my sympathies to you. I will always remember meeting you.
Rebecca Lundberg
November 4, 2016
I learned of your passing today, but more importantly, I learned of your life and how much you are loved and missed. Rest in peace where ever you are and know you will never be forgotten...but always remembered.Me ke Aloha no kau a kau. (With Love for eternity)Sincerely, Rebecca Lundberg 11-04-16
lauren james
November 23, 2011
rest in paradise!
Sarah Naylor/ Oberempt
September 16, 2011
I wish you were still here!! I have so many memories about you and I. There's not one day that goes by that I don't think or talk about you. You will always have a piece of my heart and it will never fade away. You always had way to make me smile. I will NEVER forget you Matt Chew.
Cathy Forgue
April 18, 2011
I have such great memories of Matt in my class at Ledyard Middle School ...such a creative, thoughtful, wonderful kid. My heart is breaking. Cathy Forgue
February 24, 2011
Marilyn:
As a mother who lost her child 3 years ago....I understand and share your pain and agony. I remember the times you spoke of Matt when we worked together on A3.
There are no words to convey the loss you and your family will feel. It is devastating.
As a mother....it will feel different. Not more than someone elses pain, just different because Matt was "your baby".
There are some small things that I found helpful when trying to grieve the loss of my son. Perhaps they could be of help to you also.
I am here....if the need arises. If you should want to talk or share your memories. I truly know the pain you will be facing. Contact me at anytime.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Donna Faragosa
Eileen Dolan
January 6, 2011
Marilyn, I believe I worked with you at Backus Hospital years ago, and our little boys Jim and Matt played together at the hospital day care. Every day you are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless You and your family.
Eileen Matthews Dolan, Norwich
(-=< Ray ‘n’ Mindy Hamilton >=-)
December 10, 2010
Dear Commander & Mrs. Chew, 2 Wives Pizza, and the entire Chew Family,
Didn’t know Matthew...or any of you, really, but this tragedy is so poignant, I’m compelled to offer our sincerest prayers and condolences to your family, as well as my efforts via my Ministry of Remembrance.
Understanding the hole left behind, regardless the inevitability or forewarning, pray this helps some wee bit...to allow...enable…the grief! So truly sorry to hear of your loss and this awful, sad turn of events. I’ve been sayin’ most-special prayers for strength, peace, and healin’ during this time of trial; you’ve all been added to m’dailies! God Bless your achin’ hearts!
When my mother died, even after a years-long battle with cancer, I was shattered by the loss…inconsolable…she was my mentor! I like to think that I got my character from my father, but my mind and its capacity from m’dear sainted mother!!! BUT, "If your faith assures you she's in heaven, then what are the tears all about?!?" I hold eternity dearly close...a cherished and hard-won prize...but, in the interim, that answer lies below.
SELFISH TEARS
(I EULOGIZE MY BELOVED MOTHER - MARCH, 1989)
Today we cry...must admit they're selfish tears.
You see...our faith assures your journey's done.
But it's not for you we mourn, at all, my dear;
It's for those of us you've left behind...alone!!!
We share your joy...share your happiness at rest,
Your painful fears now for forever stilled.
You've fought the good fight, passed the final test,
But you've left behind a hole that can't be filled!!!
So, until we each rejoin you some someday,
And, while your memory buoys us through those years,
We'll miss you...but continue on our way,
And, from time to time, we'll cry our selfish tears!!!
Ray Hamilton (c) March 19, 1989
Our sincerest condolences and prayers,
I’d also like to add, considering Marco Frucht’s post:
To a place where/
Joy will never end/
I’ll fly away!
Glenda Obrero
December 4, 2010
Marilyn, I'm deeply sorry about the loss of your son, Matt. I didn't know him but I feel the pain that you and your family must be going through. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Tanya Johns
December 2, 2010
he was a great guy!
Melissa Canova
November 15, 2010
Melinda-
Words cannot even begin to express how sorry I am for your family at this time. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers...
Allison Andreoli
November 10, 2010
I did not know Matt but his brother Mike is a very special part of our family and I am so very sorry that he and my sister Alex, his family and Matts many friends have had to suffer so great a loss.
My sincerest condolences to all of you.
Casey (Kiroy) Mixon
November 9, 2010
There will be an empty chair at the holiday table this year, but it will be filled with loving memories. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone who is missing Matt.
Donna
November 8, 2010
Matts family and friends, I did not know matt at all, but just reading this guest book breaks my heart,a parent should never have to bury a child,i had a dream last night and he was in it, the hairs stood up on my neck when i saw this picture in the paper, and if that dream is any indication of where he is right now his family should have no worries, hes happy, peaceful and watching over all of you, i really dont understand the dream and what it ment but there is something beyond this world that we cant even imagine, i'm not going to let it bother me anymore, it just is.....
Ogre
November 8, 2010
Though I may have not known Matt very well, I had the pleasure to chat with him on brief occasions while I lived in New London. From the first impression I felt that he was a genuine, kind person with a big heart. I would like to offer my condolences to Matt's family in this rough time.
Ogre
November 8, 2010
I didn't really get to know Matt from my short time in New London. However, I did know that he was a good hear-ted person who cared about his family and friends. I am sorry to here this loss. I would like to extend my condolences to the Chew family and his friends.
Jean and Ray Stanis
November 8, 2010
Rick and Marilyn,Our condolences to you and Mike at this time of sorrow.Matt was a great kid ,he was loved by so many ..you were the best parents any kid could hope for.God Bless you both.
Kate O'Boyle
November 8, 2010
There are no words to say... My prayers and thoughts are with Matt, his family, and friends...
Dawn (Epstein) DeCristofaro
November 6, 2010
Mindy -
I am soo... sorry to hear of the death of your brother. It is such a tragedy. My condolences go out to you and your family. May your fond memories of your brother help you through this difficult time.
- Dawn
Karen Whiton
November 6, 2010
I am so heartbroken over this senseless tragedy. Matt was such a kind and sweet person. He touched my life in the brief time I had the absolute pleasure of working with him at Chili's. My deepest sympathy to his family. You raised a wonderful son. I will always remember him and he will live on in my heart forever.
Ashlee Lindeborg
November 6, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Wendy Rodgers
November 5, 2010
Dear Rick and Marilyn,
I am at a loss for words...my heart goes out to your family. Matt will always be with you in spirit! With heartfelt sympathy, Wendy Rodgers
Kim Carrigan
November 5, 2010
Our heartfelt sympathy to all who loved him! He will live on in your hearts forever! Kim and Bill Carrigan
Kristin DeMuzzio
November 5, 2010
I cannot know the pain you feel.
I cannot share your memories or your loss. My words of sympathy are beneath measure, yet know that my heart reaches out with love to your hearts.
Memories of Matt will live on, filling our hearts with joy and laughter.
Jocelyn Marin
November 5, 2010
Matt,
I'm really angry your gone. So to relieve the fustration I ponder on the way you aren't so worried about anything any more. Your broken heart is put back together while you hold your girl Liz once again and watch over another mate. I'm going to miss you, remember you, and the world we once had together. I'll catch ya on the flip side. Big love! Peace&Emapthy
Kate Oates
November 4, 2010
"Unable are the loved to die. For love is immortality." (Emily Dickinson)
Matt, the warmth of your goodwill burns forever in the countless hearts you touched with your sincere smile, cheerful words, and joyful creativity.
ashlee
November 4, 2010
matt... you will always be in our hearts and forever missed and loved...RIP
Jessica Butler
November 4, 2010
From high school to the Oasis, I cherish the memories we have along with everyone else. Rest In Peace Matt <3
Jennifer Perry
November 4, 2010
"Look at the stars and how they shine for you.. Matt was a free soul, kind,respectable, sweet, loving. I could go on to describe him but there's not enough space to do him justice. He will be greatly missed!! <3<3
Tony Leckey
November 3, 2010
I did not know Matt but have a hard time accepting how such a young life could be lost. It was obvious that he meant an awful lot to so many. God bless his family and friends and comfort you during this time. You are all in my prayers, I promise.
November 3, 2010
Sorry to hear this terrrible news Lindsey, you are in our thoughts. Your family, Bernadette, Celeste, and Joann
Meagan Holmes
November 3, 2010
Ma'Chew!!!! I still cant believe its true. were gonna miss you kid. keep an eye on all of us, especially lindsay and james. say hello to all our other angels. you will never be forgotten.
Mike Robinson
November 3, 2010
Matt was a very special and gifted young man who was taken from us much too early. However, he will live in our hearts and memories forever. Love and God bless to Rick, Marilyn, Michael and Mindy.
maryanne pavlak
November 3, 2010
we want to share our condolances to the family and friends of matt. we only new him a short time , but we saw a special person there
Abbey Nicholas
November 3, 2010
My most sincere condolences to Matt's loved ones.
"To live in hearts we leave behind. Is not to die."
He will always be in my heart.
Cheryl lawrence
November 3, 2010
A parent should never have to experience the loss of a child. Our son was taken from us at 27 5 years ago and it is still like an open wound. Take care of yourselves and don't be afraid to talk to family and friends. Matt will be with you forever.
The family of Joey Lawrence
Krystal Hardiman
November 3, 2010
Matt had the most infectious smile, He was a wonderful person, always a pleasure to be around and I loved growing up with him in HS and hanging out randomly whenever we ran into eachother. He will be greatly missed by all.
November 3, 2010
Matt will be missed by his family, Aunts, Uncles and Cousins. He was such a special young man and we are so thankful to know that so many others knew this.
Bruce and Jean Cutshall and extended family.
Michelle Enos
November 3, 2010
Lindsay and Family, I am sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
jill greene
November 3, 2010
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Sue Perna
November 3, 2010
He was loved...
November 3, 2010
I had the pleasure of working with Matt at Chili's in New London for a few years. He was always a sweet, open minded, and loving person. This is a terrible tragedy and I am at a loss for words. I send my condolences to his friends and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time.
Sincerely,
Jillian Porter
Grant Hightower
November 3, 2010
An old acquaintance from Ledyard High...Great artist and talented musician, I hope that all who have been touched by him honor his life by living theirs out the best way they know how. Good travels in the next life my man, you are missed by many.
Matt with McCoy
Trish Cossia
November 3, 2010
Matt always had a smile on his face - and it always reached his eyes. So many will miss him - and so many have now been deprived of ever knowing him. RIP Matt - you will always be remembered with love.
Kalyn Palmer Caballero
November 3, 2010
I wish such a wonderful young man didn't have to go so soon. I didn't know my cousin well, but I knew he was special when I was able to spend time with him. My heart and prayers are with you. I love you all and wish I could be there with all of you.
Daniel Palmer
November 3, 2010
I am still in stock at hearing about Matt. Marilyn and I had lunch last week talking about her and Rick taking a vacation to visit their kids for a week or so. She had a big smile and we talked about her kids. Matt was well loved by all. I told my boys who met Matt when he visisted his parents in San Diego. My oldest son, Dylan got a connection with Matt and they played around on beach. He was taken aback by the sudden death that was unneccessary for our world. We will all miss Matt and his free spirit. God let his spirit fill us all with hope and promise for keeping him in our hearts always.
Amanda Bachand
November 3, 2010
There are so many great memories I've got with Matt that I couldn't even try to fit them in this small box.
There are so many good things to be said about Matt, it wouldn't be fair to try to fit them in this box.
But fitting them in my heart? Well, they're already there.
I will love and miss you every single day, Chew Chew. We all will.
“Love is stronger than death even though it can't stop death from happening, but no matter how hard death tries it can't separate people from love. It can't take away our memories either. In the end, life is stronger than death.”
Anne and Dave Palmer
November 2, 2010
We are devastated by the loss of such a beautiful young man. We are praying that his memory lives on in all those he touched during his life. Please let us know if we can help in any way.
Stephanie Hoffman
November 2, 2010
He was so handsome, and wonderful... it is sad to let such a beautiful soul leave this plane so soon. Missed and loved.
Leanna and Chloe Mingoia
November 2, 2010
thinking of you daily and hoping peace will come to all of us through this sad time. knowing your in a better place brings comfort to my heart but grievence to many souls. RIP love and well see you when we see you. my thoughts and prayers are with all of you close to matts heart.
Brandon Metz
November 2, 2010
deepest sympathies to your family during this terrible time. didn't know you, man, but my friends all say great things about you and what you meant to them all. enjoy your new life up in heaven and we'll all see you someday. until then, we take comfort in knowing that you're smiling down on us today.
November 2, 2010
Words seem so small compared to your loss. My thoughts and prayers go to his family and his friends.
Pat O'Leary
November 2, 2010
My deepest condolences to the Chew family. My prayers are with you.
Kelly
November 2, 2010
Matt you were amazing human with a lot of love for others.
Thanks for standing by me!
Now you have joined them and looking down on earth laughing a little louder and smiling with happiness!
Although you are truly missed here on earth by your family and friends.
Marco Frucht
November 2, 2010
One bright morning /
When this life is over /
I'll fly away.
Mary Cherry
November 2, 2010
I knew Matt as a student at Juliet Long School. He always had a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eyes. He was a dear boy then, and obviously grew into a special man. I feel his loss, and send my prayers and love to his family and friends.
November 2, 2010
We are saddened at the news that you have left this life, and that your family and friends will be denied seeing your joyful smile, but we are confident that you are with the Lord in the next portion of life, and that your memory and smile will be reflected on those who knew you and those who knew of you.
Rita ans Sean Moore, Waterford
Casey Raffield
November 2, 2010
You will be missed...
Heidi Larson
November 2, 2010
I did not know you. Your life and how it ended has affected me because I have children that are your age. They walk the streets of NL at night to go to probably the same events that you did.
I am sorry for your family`s loss and the loss of such a young soul.
Desiree Degrasse
November 2, 2010
Young, bright and handsome. This is all so sad. I am praying for all friends and family. He will be greatly missed.
Nellie Discenza
November 2, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Ryan Phillips
November 2, 2010
My sincerest condolences and sympathy to the family and friends. May God relieve your grief and bring peace to you all.
With Love,
The Phillips Family.
Denise Brouillier
November 2, 2010
In My Pocket
I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.
My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.
They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.
Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.
But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.
Mikey Giancola
November 2, 2010
To all who knew Matt, to all that live in our seemingly small downtown community. Let’s keep the memories of the people we've walked with close and allow ourselves to continue living life the way our lost friends would have wanted us to live. Remember: We are in this life together. Take care of yourself, and each other. Keep a sharp eye out for the neighbor you've passed on the street that you may have never spoken too, or the waitress walking home by herself after a long day. Most of all cherish each day we have together as if it we're our last.
Liz Levine
November 2, 2010
The light of your beautiful smile continues to illuminate those that loved you. Rest in peace and love.
Amy Sarcia
November 2, 2010
What is it to die but to stand naked in the wind and melt into the sun? And what is it to cease breathing but to free the breath from its restless tides so that it may rise up and expand and seek God unencumbered?
We love and miss you every minute of every day.....
Brensa Ammermann
November 2, 2010
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
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