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Ryan Matko Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Ryan Matko
Kendra Matko
September 18, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
I don't know if we are related or not but saw the name and wanted to send my condolences and say that I'm so sorry for your tragic loss.
Sissy, Warner,Joshua Coffey
September 12, 2007
I can't express in words the sorrow in our heart at this time. We are praying for your family.
Eugene and Susan Meece
September 9, 2007
Although we are strangers, please accept our deepest sympathies. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Rich & Nancy Carroll
September 5, 2007
Rose and family,
Wanting to offer you comfort but feeling inadequate to do so, we would like to share this prayer with you which helped us through in 1996 when we lost Rich's mom and my brother:
"Lord, when a loss takes us through such deep pain, we cannot understand--we can only believe. Please help us to believe in your mercy and wisdom...Give us your consolation, that we may comfort one another in this, our moment of loss. Strengthen us, Lord, and draw us all closer in your love and precious peace. Amen"
Keeping you and your family in our prayers,
September 5, 2007
Dear Rose,
I only know of you through visits to your restaurant. However, I wanted to emphasize to you the importance in recognizing life by something beyond unsuitable numbers. I, too, lost a loved one that seemed so young (16)...but there was much accomplished and to celebrate by the years he did serve on this Earth. Memories may be painful right now, but in time, the cherishable ones will allow for some of your personal healing. In the past few days, a car accident has taken the young life (48) of my old friend and that of both of her young daughters (9 & 12). Also in the past few days, a young mom (48) at my church passed on leaving 2 young children behind. The losses are off the scale to family and friends in all three of these life events, and right now, so too is the healing time. But know that you are thought of, supported, that your pain is felt. In time, may you find peace. Let Jesus Christ be your guide.
GEORGE BRANCH JR,
September 2, 2007
HELLO MATKO FAMILY, YOU ARE TOTAL STRANGERS TO ME BUT I CAN SHARE IN YOU PAIN, BECAUSE MY SON DIED IN A TRAGIC CAR ACCIDENT THIS PAST CHRISTMAS SEASON. I KNOW YOUR PAIN, AND I MOURN WITH YOU. BUT UNDERSTAND THAT RYAN IS IN A BETTER PLACE, AND NOW HE IS IN THE LORD'S HANDS, WHERE HE IS LOVED BY THE GREATEST LOVER OF ALL. HOLD ON TO RYAN'S MEMORY, BUT ALSO IN RYAN'S MEMORY SEEK SILENCE, AND THE LORD WILL TALK TO YOU. HE UNDERSTANDS, AND HE HAS SHARED TEARS JUST AS I KNOW YOU ALL HAVE. HOLD ON TO RYAN'S MEMORIES, AND HOLD ON TO GOD. HE TRULY UNDERSTANDS.
Barbara Leonard
August 31, 2007
To all of the family: Losing a child has to be one of the most difficult losses that a person can endure and a fear that every parent faces. There are no words that can be said to ease the pain but I pray that you will find strength to heal as each day passes. Life is so precious and when a young life ends so needlessly - everyone is touched by the loss; even those that didn't know Ryan. I didn't know him personally but he was always very polite when I would see him helping out at the cafe. Barbara Leonard (Chester, Va)
Spencer Southall
August 30, 2007
I was a fellow classmate with your son. My family and I wanted to share our deepest sympathies in your time of need.
Ruth Mills
August 30, 2007
I don't know you, but as a mother, I grieve with you and my heart hurts for you. May God give you comfort in your tragic loss.
VCU Police Department
August 30, 2007
To The Matko Family,
We all just wanted to let you know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time. May Ryan Rest in Peace and Each of You find the Peace needed to Heal!
Diane Torres (Lt. Joe Costa's Cousin)
August 30, 2007
I want to express my deepest sympathy to you. I have two sons and can't fathom what you are going through. I hope that God gives you comfort, and that Ryan's memories give you the time you need to heal. Because it will take time to mourn such a great loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you. May God give you the strength to endure and the courage to face each day.
Sharon Banes
August 29, 2007
Sgt.Matko,
I would like to express my deepest sympathy to you and your faimly.Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers,and I hope the closeness of family and freinds will help you though this most difficult time.May the Lord be with you. God bless you.
Amen.
judy Davis
August 29, 2007
Rose & Family,
My prayers are with you. I cannot image what you are going through, but I do know that God will help you.
Barbara Carter
August 29, 2007
I was so sorry to hear about Ryan. I just wanted to let you know that you and your family are in my prayers.
Mindy Mills
August 29, 2007
Rose and Max - I am just heartbroke for both of you. I cannot imagine the loss and sadness you must feel during this time. I didn't have the privilege of knowing Ryan personally, but knowing both of you, I am quite sure he was an awesome kid. I hope you know that my thoughts and prayers are with you both during this difficult time.
Mindy (Newnam) Mills
Frederica Brown
August 29, 2007
I didn't know your son, but I have 3 sons 1 an upcoming senior at TD. I can't imagine your pain but your family is in my prayers. Hold on to God's Unchanging hand, and know that your Angel Ryan has gone home.
Stay stong and God will see you through.
Frederica Brown & Family
Georgi Fisher
August 28, 2007
Rose and Jessie -
I know that there will never be words that will bring comfort to you while you struggle to understand why this has happened. Know that Ryan was a brilliant and beautiful part of the world and that he will be greatly missed. I'm sorry that we share similar history, but I'm glad that our families are able to be there for each other as you work to find peace. You're both in my thoughts and prayers.
Don & Tootie Ferguson
August 28, 2007
Dear Matko family, We're so sorry for your senseless loss. We're praying for your family in this difficult time.
beth ABELE
August 28, 2007
o my gosh...ryan was like a brother to me...my dad has been dating his mom for like 5 years now...i had nothing but love for ryan...i remember all of our trips to he beach..i remember last year me and my friend got all these little poppers from the firework store at myrtle beach..me ryan my friend and hunter[ryans cousin] were in the front yard of the beach house running around throwing them at each other..it was so much fun! lol even though we got hit in the face with them...but owell..i love you ryan and you will forever be missed!
Janice Dale
August 28, 2007
Max, I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family as you try to deal with the loss of your son.
Margaret & Tom Landry (Lt. Jose Costa's sister)
August 28, 2007
To The Matko Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. We had the pleasure of meeting Ryan, last year, during your visit to New England. Ryan is a great kid. He kept all our children entertained, playing games, soccer, football, and baseball. The best part was at night when they were playing hide-and-go-seek. Well, Ryan decided to hide by sitting inbetween the adults. The younger children were looking for him for the longest time, until they gave up and came to sit with the adults....there was Ryan busting out laughing, they were so close the whole time. These are the memories that will make the pain go away. Remembering the good times and the times spent with family and friends.
Peace and Love,
Dick and Janet Carmack
August 28, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through this terrible ordeal.
Wendy Sprouse
August 28, 2007
I didn't have the privilege of knowing Ryan; however, listening to his Mom, his Dad describing "his best friend" and others speak of him, I know he was a son of whom to be proud..My prayers are with you daily to ask our Lord to give you strength to bare the pain and help you to get answers to the WHY. In time, God and cherished memories will be your healing. Heartfelt sympathy.
Debbie Neider
August 28, 2007
Dear Rose,
I was so saddened by your lost. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Even though we haven't seen each other in several years, I think of you and your family often.
Billie Cooke
August 27, 2007
Mrs Matko and family,
I can only imagine the pain and anguish you must feel. My prayer is that many beautiful memories will ease your pain and suffering.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Billie Cooke
online Alg I instructor
Barry Cobb
August 27, 2007
Rose and Max,We are so sorry for your loss.As parents also we can't imagine what you are going through right now.Thru the years Ryan was such a joy to have on the ballfield.As I am starting over with Austin in baseball I wish I could have a team of Ryans!!Barry,Mary,Jacob and Austin.
chris miller
August 27, 2007
DEAR ROSE AND FAMILY,
I LIVE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD WHERE RYAN WAS FOUND. I WALKED BACK THERE THIS MORINING CRYING . I KNOW RYAN IS COOKING FOR THE ANGELS NOW AND WATCHING OVER YOU. I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS AND PRAY FOR GOD TO HOLD YOU IN THE PALM OF HIS HAND EVERYDAY.
Nancy White
August 27, 2007
Rose,
I am so sorry to hear about your son.my prayers and thoughts are with you every day, may God bless you and your family always.love you always your friend for life
Catrina & Terry Buisset
August 27, 2007
Rose, we are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this most difficult time.
Bonnie Conrad
August 27, 2007
Rose and Family,
I can't express in words the sorrow in our heart at this time. We are praying for your family and the peace that passes all understanding to surround you at this time. We love you and are here for you no matter what time of day or night.
Love, Bonnie (Chester Family Acupuncture)
Wilma Fleming
August 27, 2007
Sgt. Matko, I just want to express my deepset sympathy to you and the rest of your family. I know the pain you all are feeling right now. I remember speaking with you about a year ago regarding the case of my own son. I pray that you will get through this and will soon find some sort of resolution in this matter. It has been seven years for me and still no answer. Trust me when I tell you, GOD will see you through and HE will carry too, you when you least expect it.
Angie and Bobby Burnham
August 27, 2007
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Angela Adams
August 27, 2007
To the Matko Family:
My husband and I would like to send our condolences for your loss. We are expecting our first child, and could not imagine what you are going through at this time. My husband and I remember seeing Ryan the last time that we were at the restaurant. My mother is a frequent customer there and said that Ryan had come out to bust a table and he asked if everything was alright and if there is anything he could get for them. She thought that was very polite for him to ask. She never had someone who was busting tables ever ask them that.
We do not know each other but the thoughts and prayers from my family and I are with you and your family. The deepest sympathy to all.
Tim Mihalcoe
August 27, 2007
We are very sorry for your loss and will pray for your family and hope you can get through this tragedy somehow. Having teenagers myself I still cannot imagine how much pain you are going through right now. If there is anything we can do just let us know. Max you can contact me anytime, hang in there buddy.
Jim Hendrick
August 27, 2007
Rose and Max
I wanted to say I'm sorry to hear about the loss of Ryan.I spent a lot of time on the ball field with Ryan.He was a tremendous young man with the heart of a lion.He will be missed by every person who got to know him.I will always cherish the time I was able to spend with him.He will always be one of my boys.God bless you all.
Cheryl Hahn
August 27, 2007
To the Matko Family. I am so very sorry for the loss of your son. No one should ever lose a loved one like this, especially a child. I know the sadness and grief that your family is going thru. I too have lost a son justthe same way as your son was. I know the pain and hurt that you are feeling.It's been almost 5 years now and the pain is still there. My son was a Thomas Dale graduate too. My sincere thought and prayers are with your family. Always remember the good times and always keep in in your hearts. He may not be there physically but belive you me , you halways will ghave a "Guardian Angel" always watching over your family. I did not know him nor your family but we all feel your pain and grief. GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY
Shirley Mays
August 27, 2007
Rose, Words don't even begin to express how my heart aches for you. Having a son myself I can't even imagine my devastation. I am so sorry I couldn't be there to give you a hug. I know that Mom and Russ were very upset for you but I'm not sure if Mom is able to make the viewing or services. I just wanted you to know that my sincerest heartful prayers are with you and hope in some small way they will touch you at this time. Your friend, Shirley Mays, Pizza Hut
Bob Hosick
August 27, 2007
Max and family,
Wendy and I are saddened to hear of your loss. You are in our prayers.
Bob and Wendy
Carroll Mitchell
August 27, 2007
To the Matko family.
I am so sorry for your loss. I can only imagine the pain you must feel. The prayers of my wife and I are with you.
(A close friend of Tom)
Jeanie Mills
August 27, 2007
Rose - I'm really lost for words as I can not imagine the pain and emptiness you are feeling. Please know that God will help you find the strength you need to go forward day by day. Even though I never met Ryan my children Kevin and Kelli had the pleasure of knowing him through T.D. and even though they weren't close to him they were deeply affected. We all wish you the best in the days to come and know that we are thinking of you and your family. I will be visiting you at the cafe' soon. God Bless.
Lisa Ballard
August 27, 2007
Dear Matko Family, You are in the hearts and prayers of many parents in Chesterfield. We are saddened by your family's loss and hope that you will find strength and comfort with God.
Miki Willis-Burley
August 27, 2007
Rose and Family,
My dear Rose,I have known you for a very long time and still the words are hard to find that express how much I hurt for your you and your family.You have been given that special gift(mom). We never know how long we will have our children with us here on earth, however one thing for sure, this job is eternal and thanks to God we can be with our children forever.I know you are proud to say you are Ryans mom and you should be. I hear so many nice and good things about your son.I just want to say you've done a great job and he will not be forgotten.
August 27, 2007
Im sorry to hear of your loss. Remember he is in GOD's hands now! Keep your head high & keep praying
Jimmy & Debbie Carter
August 27, 2007
To the Matko Family:
May God bless and guide the Matko family and friends through this tragic loss of Ryan.
JENNIE NEWCOMB
August 27, 2007
ROSE & JESSICA :
I WILL FOREVER HEAR THE WORDS FROM MY DAUGHTER PATTY "MY MATKO!".
THERE ARE NO WORDS THAT CAN EVEN COME CLOSE TO EXPRESSING THE LOSS THAT I KNOW EACH AND EVERY PERSON FEELS THAT KNEW RYAN. HE WAS AS MUCH A PART OF OUR FAMILY AS MY OWN CHILDREN FOR A SOLID THREE YEARS. HE WILL ALWAYS HOLD A VERY SPECIAL PLACE IN OUR HEARTS. WE LOVE AND MISS HIM AND LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING HIS SMILING FACE WHEN WE JOIN HIM! UNTIL THEN MAY GOD GIVE YOU HIS STRENGTH, COMFORT & PEACE.
JENNIE, PATTY, BRANDON & ROB
heather hile
August 27, 2007
To Rose and Family,
Im sooo sorry for your loss there are truly no words that can be said...just know that you are ALL in our prayers and thoughts.
With Much Love
Heather,Pat & Robert Hile and Ron Sherman
Cheryl Srafin
August 27, 2007
Max
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I don't know you personally, I am Laurie's sister and Tom's sister-in-law. May God be with you and remember you always. He is soaring with the Angela now.
Gail Feind
August 26, 2007
Rose and Jessie,
There are no words to express my sorrow, so consider this message a "HUG" from me to you. I am praying for you and sending my love.
Cathy Dunn
August 26, 2007
Max, We were shocked and saddened when Sandy Craig called to tell us about Ryan's death. Very sorry to hear this. God be with you all. Cousin Cathy (Nicolaus) Dunn
Michael and Eileen Bass
August 26, 2007
Rose and Family,
We've gotten to know you, your family and the W.R. staff throughout this past year. We were so sorry to hear about Ryan. He was a good kid and we know that God is watching over him. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. You know we are only a phone call away, so if you need anything, don't hesitate to call.
Ret. Officer RB Wade
August 26, 2007
As one who lost a 16-year-old, I do know how you feel. But, know this, wonderful Ryan is with God and perhaps is playing baseball on a diamond made of pure diamonds with my son.
As Amazing Grace says...'When we've been there 10,000 years.' Blink your eyes, for 10,000 years is but a blink of an eye to God. Before we know it, we will be drinking 'heavenly tea' with those we love.
God Bless the Family.
John 3:16
William Palmer
August 26, 2007
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.
Thad & Pat Jones
August 26, 2007
Max, we are truly sorry to learn about the senseless tradegy about your son. We are praying that God will wrap his arms around you and the family to provide that much needed comfort. May God Bless.
Erin Marie Wallace
August 26, 2007
Rose, Max, Jess and the rest of the family,
When I heard the news I was in total shock. I cant even imagine what you all must be feeling! I am SO sorry. Its been years since I have seen you all. Terrible thing that this happened. I love you all and miss you all. God bless you all through this rough time. May justice will be served. You all will be in my prayers!
Nelson Baird
August 26, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of sorrow. Sincerely Nelson and Chyrel Baird Genito Hunt Club Brodnax Va.
Mercy & Brandon Costa
August 26, 2007
To The Matko Family,
I am very sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Know that Ryan is at rest with God and he will be watching over you. May he Rest in Peace.
Top Gun Hunt Club
August 26, 2007
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Nan Sharp
August 26, 2007
My Aunt and Uncle who moved to Houston, Texas, wishes me to tell you how very sorry they are and wish they were here to offer you confort.
Margaret and Wesley Powell
Nan Sharp
August 26, 2007
Our hearts are so sadden about your son. If only we could say the right thing to give you comfort. God be with you now and forever.
Nan B. Sharp and Jenny Young
Betty Burton
August 26, 2007
Dear Matko Family, WE do not know the family personally, but have visited the restaurant several times. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.The Burton Family
J.J&Yvonne Melchek
August 26, 2007
To Rose,Max and the whole family
J.J and I are very sorry for your
pain.We wish we could take it all
away. Ryan was a very special
loving young man.We sure going to
miss him.
God Bless You.
J.J&Yvonne
Jackie Parrish
August 26, 2007
Dear family,
I can't even began to express the feeling of emotions at a time like this, I can only give thanks to God that Ryan was found so quickly. My prayers are upon each and everyone of you in this time of suffering and I pray for the comfort of Gods Angels to surround each and everyone of us. We may never understand why this happened but as long as God has His hands upon us He will give us comfort... God Bless
Chance White
August 26, 2007
Rose,
Your family is in our prayers.
Sincerely,
Jeff, Chance & Jeffrey White, Zachary Samples & Carson Bartlett
Ray Williams
August 26, 2007
Max and family, I am very sorry for your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you at this difficult time. May god bless you and keep you.
Bill Palsa
August 26, 2007
Rose, Jessica, Melissa, Mom & Tammy,
I am so sorry for your loss. Ryan was a great guy and I know how much he loved his family and enjoyed helping out at the Wild Rose Cafe'. He will be nissed by all who knew him. We, your friends at the WIld Rose, are here for you to help in any way we can. Take care and God bless.
Mary S
August 26, 2007
To the Matko Family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers during this time of loss and grief. The Wild Rose is one of our favorite places for lunch and while we never had the privellage of meeting Ryan we feel as if a part of us is missing too. May God bless you Rose.
CHARLOTTE BODENHAMER
August 26, 2007
TO ROSIE AND FAMILY,OUR FAMILYS HAVE KNOWN EACH OTHER FOR YEARS AND THIS IS THE WORST TRAGEDY YET .I CAN'T IMAGINE THE PAIN AND HEARTACHE YOUR GOING THROUGH, JUST REMEMBER THE GOOD TIMES WITH RYAN,HE'LL ALWAYS BE IN YOUR HEART.OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU .LOVE THE BODENHAMERS
Dan and Vickie Santalucia
August 26, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the entire family during these difficult times. Our family is feeling your sorrow and we will always have fond memories of Ryan, and he will remain in our hearts. May God bless you and keep you strong throughout these trying times.
Love and prayers,
Vickie, Dan, Maria, Anthony, Nicholas.
The Santalucia's
Joanne Niglio
August 26, 2007
To The Matko Family,
I'm so terrible sorry for your loss. They say that time will heal all wounds, but in this case it may help with the pain. I loved Ryan, as well as Jessica, like they were my own. I will miss him terribly. If there is anything you need, please let me know. Even if it's as small as running to the store. I love all of you. My prayers are with you all.
Michele Valentin
August 26, 2007
We are customers of the Wild Rose Cafe. We don't know your family personally, but would like to give you our prayers through this difficult time. May God Bless all of you.
The Valentin Family, Chester VA
Kareen Arnold
August 26, 2007
Dear Rose and family,
My prayers have been with you from the beginning of this tradgedy and will continue. You know the Lord is with you, rest in Him! God bless you all.
stephanie duck
August 26, 2007
It is with sad hearts that we have to send you this message. We are keeping your family in our prayers. If you need anything please let us know.
Mirage hair salon
Elva J. Newcomb
August 26, 2007
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Susan
August 26, 2007
I can't begin to imagine the pain and heartache you must be experiencing in losing your son. It seems so tivial to say, remember the wonderful memories you've shared with Ryan and he'll be with you in your heart forever! But it's true. I just wanted you to know Rose that my heart hurts for you and Max and my prayers are with you and all your family. May God give you the strength you need to go forward and the peace that comes only through him.
Linda Hahn
August 26, 2007
To the Matko family,
My prayers to your family began when I first heard of your tragic loss. I have no doubt there is a community larger than you can imagine that has you wrapped in prayer already. Faith and prayer will carry you on the journey you have to face. So to all of the family, and the many friends that mourn Ryan's loss, May you find peace and comfort from all the prayers lifted up for you and may you feel God's loving arms around you that will give you strength to face each day.
CHARLOTTE BODENHAMER
August 26, 2007
TO ROSIE AND FAMILY,WORDS CANNOT EXPRESS HOW SORRY I AM FOR YOUR LOSS.PLEASE KNOW WE'RE THINKING OF YOU AND PRAYING FOR YOU.IF YOU NEED ANYTHING LET US KNOW , THE BODENHAMERS
Jessie Crumpler
August 25, 2007
Ryan was a fun and loveable guy. We always had such fun in 10th grade english. Ryan you are greatly missed.
Carolyn Wallace-Richardson
August 25, 2007
Rose,Max and Jessica,
My heart goes out to all of you.I have known you all for such a long time and remember when Ryan was born and all the birthdays and holidays we shared.This is a terrible tragedy and I know you are still in shock.Just know that my thoughts and prayers are with all of you.I hope to be able to see you soon.I love you all very much and think of you often.God will get you through these tough times and keep you strong.
Love,
Carolyn Wallace Richardson
Erin and Andrew Wallace
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