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Matthew Byers Obituary

Age 35 Of St. Louis Park, MN Survived by wife, Janine & dogs, Emerald & Bruno; parents, Donnie & Bill of Overland Park, KS; brothers, David (Andrea) & Christopher; parents-in-law, Jerry & Patrice Peterson; brother-in-law, Jeff; nieces & nephews, Allie, Audrianna, Brody & Dawson; extended family & many friends. He was a proud member of the 1991 Blue Valley High School Football Championship Team. 1997 graduate of Kansas State University and member of Sigma Phi Epsilon. 10 year employee & operations manager at General Mills. Matt was an avid golfer, runner & loved traveling & spending time in the Caribbean. If so desired, memorials may be directed to the Young Survival Coalition or Men Against Breast Cancer. He will be remembered for his smile & love of life. Service Saturday, Jan. 8, 2:00 PM, with visitation beginning 12:00 noon & also Friday from 4:00-7:00 PM, all at: Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel 952-920-3996 West 50th St. & Hwy 100

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Pioneer Press on Jan. 5, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Byers

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Karen Carns

February 2, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I remember David, Matt and Christopher from elementary school. It warms my heart to read about some of his accomplishments-the greatest being the friends, family and mentors he so positively influenced. I am so sorry for your loss.

Navin Kumar

January 17, 2011

I'm very sad to hear about Matt's passing. He was a wonderful person who brought joy and and laughter to those who had the fortune of knowing him. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Christina Zwicky

January 14, 2011

I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Matt Byers. His infectiously positive attitude, laughter, energy and willingness to give were unparalleled. I had the honor of working with Matt for my first year at General Mills on Gold Medal Flour and I never had so much fun. He would stop by and tease me every day about the price of spring wheat - he always found a way to make stressful times easy and liven up any situation. I am honored to have known him and am smiling through tears thinking of his fantastic laugh. My heart and prayers go out to everyone in his family.

Kevin Farley

January 13, 2011

Words can't express the sorrow I feel for Matt's family right now. I just hope you lean on each other during this tough time. God bless you.

Ron Girard

January 13, 2011

I didn't work that much with Matt in Reed City but I had the chance to meet and talk with him during the R&D tests at the plant. Matt was always full of energy and made my visits there comfortable! He will be greatly missed.

Shirlee Sherkow

January 11, 2011

Janine and family: What a beautiful visitation and funeral. Matt was such a special soul and will be dearly missed by so many people. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. So sorry for your terrible loss. Remember all of the good times you both shared together.

Stephanie Bastyr

January 10, 2011

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

A Lawson

January 10, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.

Brad Honold

January 10, 2011

Janine & Family,

My heart aches for you and your family. My prayers for finding peace & hope in the midst of this terrible loss. I have only known Matt for a short time (~2 years) through work. He was someone who immediately felt like a long time friend...

Jessie Hawkinson

January 9, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with you Janine and the entire Byers family. Matt was a wonderful friend and coworker. He will be greatly missed.

Jason & Jessica Kumm

January 8, 2011

Janine and Family,

Our thoughts an prayers go out to you in such a difficult time. Matt was a unique soul and will be missed, but never forgotten.

Pat Severson

January 8, 2011

I had the privilege of getting to know Matt on our Softball team. His energy, charisma and ability to make anyone laugh will truly be missed and leave a large void. My deepest sympathies go out to all that knew Matt.

Henry Scott III

January 7, 2011

My deepest sympathies to the Byers family. I will truly miss Matt. I have fond memories of Matt and I find myself quoting what he would say to me to others. H.W. Scott III (Appleton, WI)

Marcia Knoche

January 7, 2011

To the Byers Family, we are so sorry to hear of your loss. We have fond memories of Matt when he was little playing on the same ball team as our son Larry at Stilwell. May God give you strength through this difficult time.
The Knoche Family

Jan & Jeanne Kessinger

January 7, 2011

God bless you and keep you, Matt. You brought us so many times of laughter and you were an awesome friend to so many.

Peace to your family and all those left behind for now.

Jan & JEanne KEssinger

Michael Smith

January 7, 2011

Janine & Byers Family,
My deepest sympathies go out to all of you. Mat was a great guy and growing up in Overland Park would not have been the same without him. He will be greatly missed but fondly remembered. All of you will be in my families prayers.

Susan (Stump) Key

January 7, 2011

The Byers Family: I am deeply saddened by the news of your loss. Hold tight to your faith and cherish your loving memories. I will continue to hold you in my thoughts and prayers.

Christa Byers

January 7, 2011

Bill, Donnie, Dave, Andi, Chris and Janine ~ My heart is breaking for all of you. I've been thinking of you all constantly. One thing I know is what an amazing uncle Matt was. He will be missed SO much. Love you all.

Jerry Fultz

January 7, 2011

My deepest condolences to the Byers family. While my chances to work with Matt and get to know hime were limited, I have rarely been so impressed by someone's drive and spirit. He will be missed by us all.

George & Karen Wombolt

January 7, 2011

We wish time spent with those we love could last forever and in our hearts it will. With sympathy in your loss. We have such great memories of Matt.
Sincelely George & Karen Wombolt

Lance Peterson

January 7, 2011

Janine & Family,
I will miss the early morning talks with Matt at work and his sincere caring nature. I am thankful for the short time time that I knew him and will truly miss him. My thoughts and prayers for you and all of his family.

John Gabler

January 7, 2011

Bill, Donnie, David and Chris I am very saddened to hear about Matt's passing. I think you all know how much he meant to me as a kid growing up. He was my first true friend starting in kindergarden. I have many great memories with you all. May God bless Matt's soul and all of the family during this tough time.

Shamly Dhiman

January 7, 2011

Our deepest sympathies to Matt's wife and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this diffucult time. We are so very sorry for your loss.

Lisa Johnson

January 7, 2011

Matt was a great boss and mentor. He will be missed by many. Wishing Janine and the Byers family strength and peace.

Shirlee Sherkow

January 7, 2011

Matt and Janine are awesome and lovely neighbors in St. Louis Park. Matt always had a big smile whenever I talked with him and he had a very generous nature. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and closest friends. I will definitely miss him.

Pam Nelson

January 7, 2011

Janine and Family,
My heart is so sad for you and your family. Matt was such a joy to work with, I will never forget that smile or laugh! Please know there are many people at General Mills lifting you up in prayers. He touched many lives!

Jan Johnson-Ransom

January 7, 2011

Janine & Family:
May the many wonderful memories of Matt help comfort you during this very difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all!

Toby Malott

January 7, 2011

Matt was a great guy, I can't believe he's gone. My condolences to his family.

SPE

Patrick & Nicole Lind

January 7, 2011

We have decided that Grandpa & Grandma Nelson needed help on their farm in heaven and they picked Matt to do the job.

You are in our thoughts & prayers, as always but especially during this difficult times. God Bless
Patrick, Nicole & Kids

Candace Parker

January 7, 2011

Donnie: I was so saddened and sorry to hear of the loss of your son. Reading through the tributes one can see what a remarkable young man he was. Do know that you are being lifted up in prayer through this difficult time and in the time to come. Words cannot express my sympathy.
Blessings to you and all your family.

Rick & Lisa DeWitt

January 7, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers going out to you Janine and Byers family. Matt was an awesome guy and I know will be missed.

Paul Nordling

January 7, 2011

Matt always had an awesome attitude and was a pleasure to work with here at General Mills and will be missed. Condolences to the family. Paul Nordling (Snacks)

January 6, 2011

The Byers Family,
Please accept my sincere sympathy in the loss of your precious son Matthew. He was simply "one of the best!"
Sincerely, Tanis Befort (mother of Kristin Befort Patrick)

Becky Decker

January 6, 2011

Prayers to Janine and family. Woodbury classmate Becky Frits Decker.

Ken McMahon

January 6, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with the Byers family. May God bless you with the happiness that Matt brought to many lives.

Nikki Scarborough

January 6, 2011

Matt's smile will never be forgotten and I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. My husband and I became friends with Matt when we all lived in Atlanta. I will always remember the many good times together and lots of laughs. He will be missed and may he rest in peace. God bless the entire family during this difficult time.

Tanith Reans

January 6, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. Matt and I were friends at K-State and I will always remember that smile of his. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

January 6, 2011

I do not know Matt, but heard of his passing through our breast cancer support group. You are in our prayers. May all the love around you support you.

Eddie Dimas

January 6, 2011

Janine and Byers family. I was devastated to hear of Matt's passing. I have such fond memories of working with Matt in Vallejo and of running into him periodically when I traveled to Minneapolis. My prayers are with you all during this very difficult time.

Anne Hodgdon

January 6, 2011

Donnie and Bill,
I remember Matt as a warm and wonderful young man who radiated joy. I know he was a wonderful son in whom you took great pride. My heart aches for you, and I am deeply saddened by Matt's passing. You will remain in my thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Anne (Vratil) Hodgdon

Brenda Baird

January 6, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are you with you during this tough time. May all your wonderful memories of Matt bring you comfort.

Todd Clark

January 6, 2011

To Matt's Family

So sorry for your loss. Matt was such a terrific guy. Always fun to be around great attitude. My sympathy and prayers to all his friends and family.

Monica Hogan

January 6, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss.

Laura Reece

January 6, 2011

Although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear, just know that you are very close in every thought and prayer.

Janssen Family

January 6, 2011

Bill,Donnie, David and Chris
Know you are all in our thoughts and prayers.We all have wonderful memories with your family in Stilwell.May God Bless you keep you close in this difficult time.Janssen Family

Bob & Jeanette Cleary

January 6, 2011

Bill and Donnie, We are so sorry for the loss of your son. Our prayers are with you and your entire family.

Chris, Becky Jones and Family

January 6, 2011

Janine and Family, I was completely devestated when I heard the news. I have known Matt since college and have worked with him throughout my General Mills career. He has always been one of my first calls when I come to Minneapolis. I will always remember him as a talented leader, fellow Miller, and a great friend. My families thought and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

January 6, 2011

Donnie, My deepest sympathies to you and your family at this time of sorrow. Ronda Staton, JCCC counselor

January 6, 2011

Donnie and Bill, I am so sadden about the passing of your son. My sincere condolences.

Mike Pener

Glenn Golden

January 6, 2011

Never have the right words to say at times like these. Like a lot of your old North Supply friends, sending healing thoughts to Bill and family.

Celeste Habiger

January 6, 2011

May you be surrounded and comforted by the love and support of your family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Janelle Ryals

January 6, 2011

My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. Matt I will always remember you contagious smile!!!

toby klinger

January 6, 2011

My heart goes out to you Donnie and to your family. I know how fondly you have spoken about Matthew and of his wife. What a wonderful son not only from your spoken words but the tributes others are sharing! I miss not being able to express my thoughts directly to you at this moment, but I know of your family's strength and resilience.

January 6, 2011

Bill & Donnie,
Denny and I feel such sorrow and shock hearing of Matts passing. We will always remember his great smile and what a fun fellow he was. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and his wife during this sad time in your lives.

Denny & Joy Parker - Peculiar, Missouri

Asiya Foster-Nelson

January 6, 2011

Donnie,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. May the wonderful memories you have of your son provide solace for you.

Sandy Burns King

January 6, 2011

To the Byers family; I can't imagine the sorrow you all must feel at this sad time. God bless and comfort you until the sun shines again.

Chris Lamprecht

January 6, 2011

Matt was a great co-worker.I really enjoyed the time he spent with us at the Fridley plant.He will be truly missed.

Patrick Delaney

January 6, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Patrick J. Delaney

January 6, 2011

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

THOMAS STRUNTZ

January 6, 2011

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Christine Omundson

January 5, 2011

To the Byers Family - my deepest sympathy to you. I will remember his smile and I've always thought Matt was a great guy in school. A message from my sister who graduated in '91 "my deepest condolences to you". You are in mine & my sister's thoughts and prayers. He will be greatly missed!

Angie Hare

January 5, 2011

Janine and Byers family -- Brian and I are deeply sorry for the loss of Matt. I am so grateful for our time together with both of you in Reed City/Big Rapids. We had so many fun times together enjoying our dogs, a glass of wine, and even a Thanksgiving dinner. On my first day of work at General Mills WHQ in April 2009 I couldn’t believe my eyes when I walked through security. I couldn’t mistake the booming voice and great grin of Matt walk toward me. After all of the great times we had in Big Rapids, it was such a nice surprise to see that familiar face. Janine and family, I pray for your peace and comfort during this extremely sad time. We’re all here to lift you up. Blessings to you and the Byers family.

Candace McKeever

January 5, 2011

Janine & Family - I am praying for you during this very difficult time. It was great to work with Matt and I am so sorry for your loss.

Brenda Stuteville

January 5, 2011

Bill and Donnie,

I'm so sorry to hear about your loss and can not imagine the pain that your family is going through. Many prayers coming your way. May God comfort you in this time of loss.

Ron & Loretta Favrow

January 5, 2011

A wonderful, lively, and beautiful spirit that will be truly missed by all. Thinking of the Byers family at this difficult time.

Kelly Schwenn

January 5, 2011

Janine and the Byers family,
My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Matt was always a great friend and coworker and his smile really lit up any room. You are all in my prayers. God Bless.

Kelley Sandberg

January 5, 2011

Matt's kindness toward my children/family and his love for dogs are two things I will always remember and cherish. We became good friends and confidantes during our "tour" in Reed City, where he was always looking out for others. His magnetic smile lifted the spirits of many and consistently brought sunshine to an otherwise cloudy day. I'm a better person for having known him and feel blessed to have crossed paths with him. God rest his soul.

Julie deRosier-Paul

January 5, 2011

I didn't know Matt but understood, from a co-worker at General Mills, that he was a great guy. My deepest sympathy to all of you.

Denise Goodman

January 5, 2011

Donnie and Byers family - you are in our thoughts and prayers during this diffucult time. May God give you what you need to comfort you through this loss.

Mary Smith

January 5, 2011

Donnie,
I am so very sorry about the loss of your beautiful son Matthew. I cannot imagine the deep pain and sadness you and your family are enduring. I have each of you in my thoughts and prayers.
Bless you, Mary Smith

Beth Calabotta

January 5, 2011

Janine, my thoughts are prayers are with you during this very difficult time.

Tim & Kathy Dillon

January 5, 2011

It was a shock to hear of Matt's untimely death; may your faith, friends and family help you through this difficult time. Our deepest sympathy and prayers.

Bill Harp

January 5, 2011

To the Byers Family - My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at such a difficult time. Matt was a great friend that we will not forget. He will truly be missed...

Adam Lyche

January 5, 2011

Matt was a wonderful person who brought laughter and smiles wherever he went. I consider myself fortunate to have known him and to have enjoyed his friendship. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Annehara Tatschl

January 5, 2011

Dear Donnie and Bill - I feel great sadness for you and your family as you grieve for your Matthew. The many glowing comments posted here will bring a measure of comfort. Though I didn't know Matthew personally, I can see he smiles just like you, Donnie! <3

Diana Hurst

January 5, 2011

You are all in my heart. I offer my sincere and deepest sympathy. May you find the courage and strength to move forward in peace. Just know that I will be here in any way to help if needed.

Richard Gradinger

January 5, 2011

I am very sorry to hear about Matt and want you to know our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Though he is no longer with us in this life, may your fondest memories and love offer you comfort and peace during this difficult time. Richard Gradinger & family (Prairie Village, Kansas)

Dick Summers

January 5, 2011

To the Byer's family - my thoughts and prayers are with all of you. We are all so very sorry for your loss.

Jenny Smith Mendizabal

January 5, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. I have such vivid memories of Matt over the years as he grew up with my brothers ( Tim and Jonathan Smith). I enjoyed watching him on the ball fields and in the band. He and his brothers were some of my favorites to babysit. He will be greatly missed. Jenny Smith Mendizabal

Anne and Robert Royer

January 5, 2011

Dear Donnie and Bill,
We have so many wonderful memories of when Matt was born and we all enjoyed so many joyous times together. We are devastated by the news and want you to know our prayers are with you, your family and his precious wife. God Bless you all, Our deepest sympathy, Anne and Bob Royer

Kellan Longenecker

January 5, 2011

Byers Family - There are no words to take away the sting of this loss. Matt was a good friend and touched so many lives. May God surround you with comfort. You are in my prayers.

Alane Davis

January 5, 2011

Dear Janine and the rest of the Byers family:

There really aren't words to express what I want to say. I am so sad to hear of this news. Please know that I and everyone at Young Survival Coalition Duluth are keeping you in our hearts. Please don't hesitate to ask for help with anything.

Sending you prayers and love,

Alane Davis
Young Survival Coalition

local #386

January 5, 2011

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Josh Hettenbach

January 5, 2011

I am sorry about your loss. You will truly be missed by all. You touched many souls in the best possible way and I am grateful to have known an angel.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Kate McClain

January 5, 2011

I am so very sorry about your loss. I got to know Matt while he lived in Atlanta... such a great spirit, smile and laugh. My thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.

Sharen Lucero

January 5, 2011

Please accept our deepest sympathies.

Larry Hare

January 5, 2011

Sorry for your loss, I remember Matt from his days at BVHS!!

Sandy Fryer

January 5, 2011

Dear Byers family...I am so very sorry to hear of Matt's death. I remember Matt well from BVHS and enjoyed his fun personality. I am thinking of all of you at this very difficult time.

Micah and Sandy Fuller

January 5, 2011

Janine,
No words can express how saddened we are for your loss. We hold very fond memories of the time we shared with you and Matt. He knew how to light up a room and make everyone laugh. We feel blessed to have met him and will hold you in all of our thoughts and prayers. Please know we've been thinking of you every day.

Darin Davis

January 5, 2011

To the Byers family,
I know Matt had many friends from all over. I met him in 1993 as we were pledge brothers together at k-state. There is a good group of us who became very close friends that year and have been together since. Matt was a big part of that group and he will be greatly missed by all of us. I am deeply sorry for your loss and ours. We will always remember all of the good times he brought to our group. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Gail & Ralph Nelson

January 5, 2011

May the love of friends and family carry you through this difficult time. Our thoughts & prayers are with all of you. Our deepest sympathy,

Josh Anderson

January 5, 2011

Matt was a good friend and will be missed dearly by his General Mills family.
Our thoughts and prayers our with you.

Sherri Damlow

January 5, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with you as you face this most difficult time. Matt was a wonderful person and I feel blessed to have had the honor of knowing him. God bless your family.

Jennifer (Gleissner) Schlotzhauer

January 5, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you Bill, Donnie and all your family.

Jennifer (Gleissner) Schlotzhauer

January 5, 2011

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you Bill, Donnie and all of your family.

Kim DeArmond

January 5, 2011

Bill & family,
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. May your great memories of Matt bring you comfort during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Ron Mears

January 5, 2011

My deepest Sympathy Bill to you and your family. I always respected you and knew you had a very good family.
Ron Mears

Clint Crocker

January 5, 2011

Dear Byers Family,
Matt was a buddy of mine from Atlanta in the late 90's. He was such a fun, happy guy and a blessing to have known. May God grant you His peace during this terribly difficult time.

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