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Matthew Miller Obituary
It is with deep sorrow that the family of Matthew Miller announces the untimely death of our son, brother, and friend in Huntington Beach, CA. Born July 17, 1972, he passed away March 28, 2009. Matthew was a bright light in all of our lives. He was the cherished son of Susan Hodge, Huntington Beach; Stuart and Judy Miller, Eureka; brother of David Miller, San Jose; Alex Miller and Nick Miller, Eureka.
He is survived by his aunts and uncles Don and Dian Moehnke, Eureka; Jim and Patty Ball, San Jose, CA, John Miller, Big Sur, CA and Mary Miller, Healdsburg, CA. He was the cousin of Shari Moehnke, Bill Moehnke, Michelle Gibbons all of Eureka, and Lori Anderson, Visalia; Katy Ball, Brooklyn, NY and Molly Ball, Santa Cruz, CA. He also leaves his beloved friend Sera and her daughter Giuliana of Florida as well as his three cats, Chino, Spunky and Gravy who were all very dear to him. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Mike and Ann Moehnke; Stuart and Ann Miller.
Matthew was born in Eureka, attended Pacific Union Elementary and graduated from Arcata High in 1990. Shortly after graduation, in the pursuit of sunshine, he made the move to Huntington Beach where he enjoyed the Southern California lifestyle. The out of doors was a big part of Matthew’s life, especially camping and ocean fishing. He was very happy when he and his Jeep were camping with friends at Big Bear, CA.
When he wasn’t rock crawling or four-wheeling, he could be found spending an enormous amount of time researching, tinkering and modifying his Jeep for the next outing. There was always something that needed to be done!
Matthew loved his family unconditionally and times together were always full of fun and laughter. His good looks, combined with his charming manner and quick wit endeared him to everyone who ever had the good fortune to know him.
A remembrance of Matthew’s life will be held at a later date in Eureka. Honoring the love of his cats, the family is requesting memorial donations be directed to The Sequoia Humane Society, 6073 Loma Ave., Eureka, CA 95503.
Rest in peace, my love. Your light will shine in our hearts forever.
Please sign the guestbook online at www.times-standard.com, click on obituaries.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Miller
Sponsored by Mom, Dad and Judy.
Mom
April 4, 2024
My only wish is that you are free of torment and pain and are spending eternity in light and love.
Serafina Bruno
April 4, 2021
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. Your always with us and I feel you with me.
Susan Hodge
April 4, 2020
2020. You have stayed in time-space where you were when you left us. We live our lives, moving further and further away from you, yet you remain in my heart as if it stopped beating the moment you died. Frozen in time, marking the moment, dividing life into two halves; before you, and after you. It's still too hard to bear.
Serafina Bruno
April 4, 2019
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Susan Hodge
July 17, 2016
Remembering you today, Matthew. Happy 44! I miss you still and always will. Hoping you are at peace.
Loving you..
mom
Summer
April 6, 2016
March never goes by without dreams of you and remembering you. In the dreams I always know you are gone, and that this is a special sighting. And we are always having fun and laughing.
Susan Hodge
April 5, 2016
I miss your smile. I miss your beautiful eyes. I miss your sense of humor. I miss seeing you and David, just being brothers together. Missing you is part of life now, like breathing. You live on in my heart, Matthew.
I love you always.
Mom
March 26, 2016
Matt,
I'm sitting in my garage soldering some wires for turn signals on one of my bikes. If you were here you'd laugh at me, then show me how it's done.
I think of you often, always with a smile. I'm sending you positives energy.
Take Care Buddy,
Chris B.
March 30, 2015
Matthew,
It's been another year of thinking about you and wishing you were here to touch and talk to and laugh with. We'll do it someday so don't forget us and how much we love you.
All my love,
Dad
March 27, 2015
Matthew, Not a day goes by that I don't think of you. I will never stop wondering why you left us; but will never stop loving you. I hope you are at peace, and in some way feeling us in your heart. I miss you with all my heart. Love,mom
Judy Miller
April 2, 2014
Matthew - Another year has gone by and I can still hear your voice . . . "Judith how are you?" We are all doing better, but it isn't the same without you and your charming manner and wit! Love you forever my sweet man.
Susan Hodge
September 24, 2013
Hello my dearest Matthew,
It's been too long since I wrote. We talk every day...and your picture smiles at me, reminding me always that you were so much fun and made me laugh till my sides hurt. Last week a friend of mine lost her son the way we lost you, and I put his picture next to yours so you can keep an eye on him. His name is Jeremy Wood, and his mom misses him dearly; as I do you.
Love you now and for eternity...
ma
A man and his Jeep!
September 20, 2013
Matthew,
It's been 4 years and not a single day goes by without me thinking of you and missing you. Would be great to have a chat sometime..maybe later. I know you are doing great things where you are now and are the life of the party.
Think of us and remember how much we all love you and miss you.
Love, DAD
SUSAN HODGE
July 17, 2011
My dearest Matthew...today you are 39 years old! I think of you every day and will never forget your smile.
mom
Susan Hodge
June 13, 2011
For more information, contact: Cheetah Club Committee, 1000 7th Street #19, Arcata, CA 95521, via email at [email protected] or find us on Facebook as "Cheetah Club." Donations may be sent directly to Northern Redwood Federal Credit Union, 1270 Giuntoli Lane, Arcata, CA 95521.
Melissa Matthis
June 12, 2011
Hello Friends and Family of Matthew...
I knew Matthew way back in 1993 for a brief period of time. We dated for a few months while I lived in Eureka - but turned out better suited as friends. I thought he was wonderful, smart, funny...he had this old car (cars aren't my thing since I can't even remember what kind it was) and had put a TV in the backseat to watch while at red lights! He was clever, and just one of the kindest people I've ever met. We drifted apart after I moved away to Arizona...I don't think I spoke to him since 1997 - but I thought of him often, and missed him. I went search for him recently now that we have the technology...and I was shocked and saddened to see his untimely death. I see in the comments there is a facebook club for him...but I can't seem to find anything. If someone could post the link here...I would like to see more pictures of him. I love the ones you have posted here. I have none, and haven't seen him for so long - except in my memory.
I am so sorry for the family's loss. I am heartbroken that he isn't here anymore. For a time, when we knew each other, I loved him dearly. And he was such an amazing person...that love for him has stayed with me over the years.
Susan Hodge
March 29, 2011
Matthew my dear son,
May you be at rest, your mind at ease, the deamons gone, the torture ceased.
I think of you every day, see you smile and the way, you used to be, so loving and smart, you were my light, you filled my heart.
I miss you more than words can say, but I know you are at peace this way...you did the best that you knew how, you knew we'd know your reasons now.
Be at peace, my love.
mom
I think you are talking to your dad in this picture on Christmas day, 2007
Susan Hodge
December 8, 2010
Hi Matthew...
It's almost Christmas, 2010. I remember the last two Christmas's we spent together. I am so glad we had that time. I remember Christmas morning,,,you were always so funny and fun.Sera and I talk a lot. I am glad you are watching over her and Giuliana. I will light candles for you too...and in the flame I will see your smile.
Love and miss you with all my heart...
mom
Sera Bruno
December 6, 2010
Hi! hun ~ Its been a while since I last wrote YOU; but you are always on my mind. Your smile and your quick remarks keep me smiles and my heart warm. Giuliana is getting so big so fast you would be amazed; well, I am sure you are already since I know you are watching over us. I will be lighting a candle for you on each holiday therefore you will know that we are thinking of you.
Love,
Giuliana & Sera <3
November 17, 2010
Matthew ~ Been thinking a lot about you lately and how much I miss you. I always loved talking to you and the way you called me Judith. I am so glad that I can still hear it! The holidays are coming around again and there is a huge hole without you. Love you, miss you! Judy
Blowing you kisses & Hugs..
Sera
May 27, 2010
Hi Matthew,
There hasn’t been a day that goes by that I don’t think about you and sometimes I spat out little says that you say or jokes. lol
I still haven’t been able to go back and look At pictures of us of all our great times that We shared together and with our families.
Every once in a while Giuliana will get on the phone to say hi to your mom.
Thank you for being there for Giuliana’s b-day and I felt
you there by my side it was incredible more so than, but I know you are always around.
Please keep looking after us and we both miss You so very much!
Debra deRaita
May 25, 2010
Hey, Sorry its been a while. I just wanted to update you and tell you the good news... we picked two girls for the award that honors you and others. I bought the girls journals so they could write and pens. Sean is helping with school books.
Our class reunion is in July. I really dont want to go knowing I won't see you or Lizett. You both will be missed!!! A LOT because you both made us laugh and smile.
I hope all is good and right for you! Watch over me and protect me because I know you are an angel!
Big hug,
Debbie deRaita
April 11, 2010
Miss you,
Debbie deRaita
Susan Hodge
April 2, 2010
Hi Sweetie...you will always be a light in my heart. Your smile brightens my days. I pray you are at peace...
All my love forever,
mom
January 19, 2010
Hey Mathew,
The meeting went very well! Judy even put pictures on facebook for us... which was sooo nice. I reeeally look forward to meeting her. She knows my dad! Smalltown. Anyways, I like to keep you updated and let you know what's up. Also to tell you that life here is not the same without you. Your humor is much needed in these hard times. Matt, if you have anything to do with helping with donations could you plllllease help me. I need contributions... I am trying to be patient but I am anxious to donate to other school programs once we reach our $3k goal. You understand...I am going to the Jackie Chan movie. I heard it is super funny and good. Meet me there for a good laugh. Big hug,
Deborah Ann deRaita
Teagan Cox-Bailey
January 12, 2010
Dear Matt's Family,
I'm so sorry to say that I just found out from friends about Matt. Matt and I go way back to Pacific Union and Arcata High. One of his teacher's; my father, Greg Cox enjoyed giving him a hard time. I will always remember his sarcasm and funny sense of humor. I always knew he would go far in life. My thoughts go out to you. He will always be remembered, especially this summer. He will be honored at our 20 year high school reunion.
January 11, 2010
What's up Matt? I just wanted to let you know that I spoke with Eric today!!! He is very supportive and is doing his part in the club. He will take care of contacting Sean, Shawn, Armand, Brian, Josh and Chris. All your friends will make sure that we pick the RIGHT person in Honor of you... because you are, were and always will be a great friend! We are having a meeting on the 15th. I invited all your family and they will be always included in the "Cheetah Club". Big hug!
Debbie Deraita your f/f
December 21, 2009
As we approach our 20-year high school reunion, our thoughts return to friends we have lost. A group of us have started a club in honor of the memory of Lizett Kawas, Dax McLaughlin and Matt Miller. We would love it if you would like to become a member and support the scholarship fund.
The Cheetah Club is a group of alumni high school friends and family members that together form a mentoring program for two graduates from Arcata High School. The goal is to raise enough money to offer one female and one male graduate $1500 each in scholarship money. The two students will be matched up with alumni club members to help support them with their career choices and continuing education. The program is designed to provide financial and personal support with the next big step in life.
The application for the scholarship will focus on friendship. The top GPA or most activities will NOT be the criteria. It is with great hopes that ALL seniors graduating will apply. We are looking for “good citizens” that need a break and have the characteristics to make a difference in the lives of their friends. Please notify the Cheetah Club committee if you are interested in reviewing the applications and selecting the scholarship recipients.
You can become a member of the club simply by making a donation. Any donation you make will go towards the scholarship fund and minor operational costs for the club. The scholarship will cover education costs such as trade schools, college tuition, books, materials or other expenses accumulated by students.
For more information, contact: Cheetah Club Committee, 1000 7th Street #19, Arcata, CA 95521, via email at [email protected] or find us on Facebook as "Cheetah Club." Donations may be sent directly to Northern Redwood Federal Credit Union, 1270 Giuntoli Lane, Arcata, CA 95521.
We are grateful to the families of Lizett, Dax and Matt for their support. Our thoughts are with them, particularly during this holiday season.
Peace, love and many blessings,
Debra Deraita
President
Holly Martel Freitas
Secretary
Eric Mild
Vice President
Tracy Helard-Shumard
Treasurer
November 30, 2009
Well Matt, I hope you are excited about being on facebook. Our club has its own fan club site. I have found pictures of us back in grade school that I am sharing. You and I were in the same classes a lot. I even found my high school autogragh book that you signed. It is priceless.
Again, thank you for being in my life and for making a difference. You are a good friend to all and the memories will last a life time.
Big hug,
Debbie D
November 25, 2009
hey Matt,
What an amazing family you have. They stepped right up to be a part of our "club". I know it is good for them because it is helping to heal and move forward with the chance to help 2 gradutes.
I want you to know that all your close friends have come through and are coming together to help me and Holly. Pacific Union has sooo many kind people.
Josh, Chris, Sean and Eric are all pleased to know that your family is appreciative and that they are soooo generous and kind.
Soooo, this holiday I am most thankful to YOU, Lizett and Dax. You continue to keep me strong and happy. Thank you for guiding me and continue to watch over me and my family.
I will NEVER FORGET you and I will make sure that the kids we chose know what kind of a friend you were and still are!
Big Hug,
Happy Thanksgiving!
peace, love and many blessings...
Debbie D
Debra Deraita
November 23, 2009
Well Matt its been over 20 years and now is the time to tell you how much of a great friend you were growing up. All the times you made us all laugh... We are all missing you during this time, BUT I know that you will be very happy that we will honor you, Lizett and Dax! Holly, Eric Mild and Tracy have formed a club. We want you to know that we will be giving 2 scholarships every year to Arcata High gradutes. Your name will be put in all the info letters so that next year 2010 will be our first mentoring program. Not only are we going to financially help students we will also be "buddies" to them and help with further education and career.
I know you would like the idea because you enjoyed being an 8th grade pal to a kindergarten student at PU. I remember... you had a fun time just by being in the kids life and you did a great job caring for him.
I am sorry that your family has lost you at such a very young age, but I hope that they can also move forward and heal knowing that you are going to be a BIG part of students graduating at AHS.
We will need some pictures of you so that we will remember your smile!
I will keep in touch and let you know from time to time what is going... I know that you are an angel in all our lives.
Big hug,
You will NEVER be forgotten.
Peace, love and many blessings,
Debbie Deraita
Amanda Sherrick
September 1, 2009
Susie and family, I am sooo sorry to hear about this! I had a few dreams with Matt in them, (you know I always was fond of Matt) and I thought I'd look him up to see what he was up to, I came to find facebook and looked for him there. And was told by my cousin Steve Malcomson, what happened. I am so sorry for your loss, I just can't believe it!... If I was there I'd give you all big hugs.
July 22, 2009
Susie, Stuart, Judy and the Brothers,
So deeply sorry to hear about Matt. Wanted to attend Matt's Memorial Service but was already committed to baby sitting. Sending you all A GREAT
BIG HUG.
Linda & Ed Mattson
Summer La Salle
July 5, 2009
Just put a bunch of pictures of me and Matt on my Facebook. Wish you were here so I could throw more food into your hair and piss you off.
Serafina Bruno
June 23, 2009
Matthew,
Your sarcasm and wit makes me loll everyday. I can’t stop thinking of all our memories we shared. I still can’t imagine you up in heaven. I am still waiting for your phone call so you can finish what I am thinking.
When I go thru our pictures Giuliana asks, who that is. I always tell her that is her uncle Matthew watching over us.
You are a Shinning Star
You are a shinning star waiting to be seen closer
I click you into my dreams like magic
You are the one that open my heart and fill it with love
The love for you will be inside me forever
My heart will always be open for you only
All I hold now is memories from the past
The world seen fill with tears and sorrow
My heart skips a beat cause you are far away
I can't wait to meet you up in heaven
Cause you are like a shinning star waiting to be seen closer.
We miss you so and you will always remain apart of us. I am sorry that we can’t be there to celebrate your new life.
Love Always,
Giuliana Alyssa Bruno
Sera Bruno
Judy Miller
June 21, 2009
A celebration of Matthew’s life
will be held
on Saturday, July 18, 2009
from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
at the home of Stuart and Judy.
Please bring a memory to share.
4363 Ridgecrest Drive
Eureka, California
(707) 445-2735
Rob Perkins
May 18, 2009
things were allways better with you around .the great times we all had back in the day will not be forgotten.
the Old Crew will miss you.
Dave,if you see this please give one of us a call (707)496-1634
Summer LaSalle
May 18, 2009
Just checking in, and still thinking of Matt. Sometimes he pops in my head, and makes me laugh.
Elliot Aran
May 18, 2009
God bless you Matt, you are in that bright red hot rod in the sky. Dave, please call me. (415)626-1433.
Matt and Sera in New York
April 22, 2009
Scott Paydon
April 21, 2009
I will always remember the kid who had a great laugh, a sharp wit, and quick to see the humor in any situation.
Peace and Love.
Ralph & Maggie Ricciardi
April 21, 2009
Dear Susie, Stuart and all the family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are so sorry. My personal memories of Matt are of long ago but through you Susie I knew him and the man he became. He was special and loved more than he knew. May God bless you and give you peace. With deepest sympathy.
Rosemary Hawkins
April 18, 2009
To "Glue" and family:
The Cottrell family sends our deepest sympathy to all of you on the loss of Matthew. He was such a good looking young man and while we didn't really know him we know that based on family history he was a kind, compassionate person;someone his Grandma Ann would have had great fun with. We cannot presume to know your pain but as time goes on I am sure that all the fun and good times with Matt will rise to the top and you will again be able to smile at the mention of his name.
Love, Rosie
Chris Barr
April 15, 2009
Matt,
Rarely a day goes by that I don’t say or think of something funny that reminds me of you. I look forward to the next time. I’m sad you’re gone.
Evon Stalker
April 15, 2009
Dear Susie,
So sad for you and my thoughts and prayers are with you to keep strength. Know you have lots of us caring for you at this time.
Beauty and the Jeep
April 14, 2009
Sera and Matthew - Soul mates forever...
April 14, 2009
The Miller Family...and then some....
Susan Hodge
April 14, 2009
Dave & Merry Ann Grow
April 14, 2009
Dear Susie, Stu and all the family,
Our prayers are with you all.
Love,
Brooke Epperly
April 13, 2009
Susie,
I am so sorry for your loss. My oldest son, Sean, recently passed away, so I know your heartache. Although the tears come often, remember all the love,laughter,and good times and try to smile for your son.
Deedee (Snyder) Vallerga
April 13, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Jerry Fisher
April 13, 2009
Stuart, Susie, and families,
sorry for the loss of your son. Prayers and condolences from the Fisher family...
John Peterson
April 13, 2009
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences.
Sera & Giuliana Bruno
April 13, 2009
Dear Susie, Judy, Stuart and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. We love you all very much.
Matthew~
It broke my heart to lose you,
But you did not go alone
Part of me went with you,
the day God called you home.
A million times I've thought of you
A million times I've cried
If loving you could have saved you
You would have never died
Forgive me Lord, I'll always weep
For my best friend I loved but could not keep.
May the peace which comes from the memories of love shared, comfort you now and in the days ahead. Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.
With Love,
Steve Malcomson
April 13, 2009
Rest in peace, brother.
Katie (Stokes) Morehouse
April 13, 2009
To Susie, Stu and Judy,
I am so very, very sorry about the loss of your beloved Matt.
Claudia (Cole) Oates
April 12, 2009
To Matt's family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all this Easter Sunday. Knowing Matt was a special blessing. His wonderful sense of humor, kindness of heart and tremendous enthusiasm will always be remembered.
Jeff Skoropada
April 12, 2009
Matt was one of my best friends, i will miss him. i wanted him to be my best man at my wedding. my heart is with his family
barbara mancino
April 12, 2009
i didnt know Matt long, but i knew him long enough to know he was good guy. he in a good place now. my prayers are with all of you
Mary Ann Loch
April 12, 2009
Matt is so loved and adored. We have thought of him so much, Our prayers and blessings go out to his family and friends. Matt was a bright light, full of love and laughter and I remember him fondly from my teen years. My love to you too, Dave. Warmly, Mary Ann (Lahr) Loch
Melody Boberg
April 11, 2009
Dear Susie,
My heart is breaking for you! What a shock to hear of Matt's passing! I know how much you love your boys and I can only imagine what you are going through. Please know that you are in my prayers and that I am here for you. The loving support you are receiving from family and friends will comfort you and give you strength. Please let me know if there is anything I can do. Bless you, dear friend!
Love,
Melody
Jacque Cooper
April 11, 2009
To Matt's family,
We are deeply saddened by the loss of your precious son & brother and please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
With love, Al & Jacque Cooper
April 11, 2009
To Matt's family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I will always remember him.
Gracie
April 11, 2009
I am so sorry to hear Matt has passed. I tried to call him last month, but the number I had went to a fax. My thoughts are with all of you.
Summer/Liz
Beau (Bare) Carr
April 10, 2009
Dear Susie,
I am so sorry to hear about your son, Matt. You have been in my thoughts over the last years. I have such fond memories of you at PUS. Please know that I'm thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.
The Miller Boys cook Thanksgiving dinner at mom's
April 10, 2009
Sunsets in SoCal. Matt was the sunshine....
April 10, 2009
What a hunk!
April 10, 2009
Matt and David. Brothers, best friends.
April 10, 2009
Aboard the boat. Hungington Beach Harbor.
April 10, 2009
He loved his jeep - HBFLEX
April 10, 2009
Matthew had a smile that lit up the room!
April 10, 2009
Lori Regalo
April 10, 2009
To Matt's family,
I am so saddened to hear of Matt's passing. I hope knowing that there are those of us who will always remember him for his smile and sense of humor will bring you some comfort during this time. I will be praying God will bring comfort to you all. Sincerely, Lori (Carey) Regalo
Nicki Acosta
April 10, 2009
To Stuart, Susie and families,
I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. I haven't seen Matt since we were kids but he seems to have grown into a such a great person. My thoughts and prayers are with you.- Nicki Acosta
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