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Matthew Liebal Obituary
Matthew graduated from Montville High School where he excelled in cross country and track, setting a school record and achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. Matthew completed his undergraduate degree at Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pa. At Dickinson, Matthew earned All-American in cross country; and All-American in track for the 10,000-meter, where he broke the school record. In 2019, he was inducted into the Dickinson Athletics Hall of Fame. Matthew was actively involved in Reserve Officers' Training Corps and upon graduation, he was commissioned in the United States Army, 1st Cavalry Division. During his Army service, Matthew was twice deployed to Iraq. His service earned him multiple decorations, including the Bronze Star Medal for his heroic achievement and the Meritorious Service Medal for his outstanding service to the United States. Matthew's army career sent him to Fort Smith, Ark. as an ROTC instructor where he met his bride, Jill. Following his honorable discharge as captain from the army, Matthew continued his military career with the Arkansas Army National Guard where he achieved the rank of major. Matthew furthered his education at the University of Arkansas earning his MBA. In 2019, Matthew and Jill were blessed with their son, Benjamin.
Matthew is survived by his wife Jill; their son Benjamin; parents, Dennis and Kathryn Liebal of Oakdale; twin sister Heather of Chicago; sister Rebecca of Quincy and her fiancé David Coffey; grandparents, Bernadette Liebal, Virginia and Al Ray, and Richard Worden. He also leaves behind his father-in-law and mother-in-law, John and Wanda Johnson; brothers-in-law: Bryce and his wife Lindsay, Trent and his wife Shayla and Grant and his wife Jennifer; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Ray Liebal.
Services with full military honors were held in Fort Smith, Arkansas at the First Baptist Church and the U.S. National Cemetery. Matthew was a hardworking, dedicated, courageous, caring and loving man. He will be forever missed by all who knew and loved him.
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Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Liebal
Sponsored by Edwards Funeral Home.
Sam, Elaine Headley
February 4, 2020
Dennis, Kathy
We are so sadden to here of your loss. He was a good son you can very proud of him. Let us know if you need anything.
Michael & Kelly Fantacci
February 4, 2020
Dennis, Kathy, Heather & Beckie.
We are so sadden by the news of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, and here if you need anything.
Barbara McCarthy
February 3, 2020
Kathy, Dennis, Heather and all the family,
I am so shocked to read this. I knew Matthew when he was a student in my class at Oakdale School, always such a sweet, energetic an cooperative little guy.
Why God called him so young is something we will never understand but hold on to His love that God will hold you in His hands and bring you some measure of comfort during this sorrowful time.
With love, prayers and sympathy,
Judy Abrams
February 3, 2020
I'm so very sorry and saddened to hear of such heartbreaking news. I knew Matthew as a young student in elementary and middle school. He was an outstanding young man and a fantastic athlete. My heart goes out to his family. I am grateful for his military service and the sacrifices he and his family made. May the Lord comfort you all in your time of grief, and may the happy memories of Matt bring you joy and warm your hearts.
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Tobey Worthington
February 2, 2020
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Matt. He was a kind and dedicated young man. My heart breaks for all of you. May you find peace.
Barbara & Ron Hayman
February 2, 2020
So sorry to hear about the loss of your son and brother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
Denis Lacroix
February 2, 2020
Dear Kathy and family, no words can adequately express my sadness and sympathy for your loss. May the God of all comfort grant you love, peace and strength at this difficult time. In prayer I send condolences.
Albert Mac Dade
January 24, 2020
Matt's intelligent, pleasant, & capable help was a big help in the technical & social sides of doing business. He infused tact & grace into all transactions.He made it all enjoyable. His service to country is honored & appreciated. Deep condolences to his wife & family as we share your loss.
January 23, 2020
Dear Kathy, Dennis and Family,
We are very sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely, Lois and Pete Spielman
Jose Lopez
January 23, 2020
Sending my deep condolences and prayers to the Liebal family. I had the pleasure of knowing and working with MAJ Liebal when he was a platoon leader for D Co. 1-5 CAV, 2nd platoon Loose Cannons. He was my platoon leader in 2008 and in Iraq 2009. One story I would like to share is from before we deployed.
We were stationed at Fort Hood, TX and during that time I was a young soldier. I had gotten into trouble that my future in the service was uncertain. I took responsibility for my actions and apologized to LT Liebal and my platoon. One of the reasons why I was able to remain in the service was because of his recommendations, as my platoon leader during my hearing.
I will always be grateful to him for believing in me and giving me a second chance. I admire his leadership during that rough time of mine. I have applied everything that I've learned from that experience, specially his leadership qualities. When I'm faced with a tough or similar situation with one of my soldiers, I always go back to my memory and how LT Liebal handled my situation. I try to make the best decision possible. I hope to be a great leader one day, as he was.
MAJ Liebal was a great person. He was a great platoon leader who showed compassion, made deliberate decisions, and believed in second chances. I will never forget you sir for helping me and believing in me. Loose Cannons, Mad Dogs, Black Knights!
Jose Lopez
Katie
January 23, 2020
I am truly saddened by the news of Matt's passing. Matt was always kind and greeted everyone with a smile. My heart goes out to his family at this time of grief. I wish all of you peace and comfort.
January 22, 2020
RIP Matthew. You were always an amazing runner; and outgoing with everything you ever did. My thoughts and prayers are with your Family.
Dan and Debbie Leblanc
January 22, 2020
Dennis and Kathryn We are very sorry for your loss. Prayers go out from our family to yours.
Jesse Wallace
January 21, 2020
Matt,
I remember you being one of the first persons to greet me when I arrived at 1-5 CAV. I never forgot our passionate debates about baseball. I also remembered your bride Jill and how you spoke highly of her. God is a God of justice and love that will bring compassion to all who seek Him. It's a shame that your time with us is short, but you go ahead and begin working on the mansion for Jill and your baby. May my Lord keep you, hold you and embrace you tightly. And just as we weep, He the Great Creator weeps for us, and our pain, (John 11:35).
CH (MAJ) Jesus Wallace
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