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Matthew Cruz Obituary
HARLINGEN, TX. -Matthew James Cruz 23, passed away Monday, February 18, 2008. He was born on July 15, 1984. He attended Sam Houston Elementary, Memorial Jr. High and graduated from Harlingen High School in 2002. He graduated from TSTC earning as Associate Degree in Chemical Environ-mental Technology
He was a very loving father, son, husband, uncle, and friend. He loved soccer, and enjoyed playing, referring and coaching his son's soccer team. He was employed at Exxon Mobil as a lab technician.
He is survived by his loving wife, Kristina Marie Cruz, son, Kaleb Matthew Cruz, mother, Lidia Zapata; brothers, Skylar Malacki Zapata, Moises Cruz and Joshua Cruz; his step-father Agustin Zapata, father, Moises Cruz; grandparents, Antonia Zapata & Rachael Contreras; in-laws Mary & Amado Zepeda; sister-in-laws Ruby (Richard) Bermea and Amy (Sam) Atkinson.
Also surviving and will be deeply missed by his uncles and their families, Felix (Irma) Zapata, Candelario (Rita) Zapata; aunts, Guadalupe (Ruben) Ripe, Antonia Raith, Cristina (Rogelio) Valdez, Olga (Gary) Reynolds, Silvia (john) Schleicher, and Josefina (Jack) Whatley; cousins, Raquel Ripe, Reynaldo, Rogelio, Ramiro, Ricardo, Cristina Valdez, Anton Raith, Isabel, Fidel, Cristina Zapata, Michael and Arlis Reynolds, Amanda, Patrick and Zachary Zapata, Carlo Zapata, Talia and Christopher Oliver, William and Kennedy Sch-leicher and Joey and Justin Whatley. Extended family include: Cristina Benton, Imelda Mendoza, Irasema Diaz De Leon, Leticia and Mike Travis; great aunts: Lala Jackson, Maria Mancha and Josefina Benton and his nieces and nephews.
Matthew wrote this poem to his Mom when he was in sixth grade:
Dear Mom,
I want to thank you for loving me. You were always there when I needed you. You also clothed me and fed me well too. You gave me a place to live in and got up early to take me to school. Out of all of them, you brought me into the world by giving me birth.
Pallbearers: David Lopez, Henry Montelongo, Artie Flores, Homer Ramirez, Justin Whatley and Sam Atkinson.
Honorary pallbearers: Felix Zapata, Joey Sanchez, Victor Gonzales, Richard Bermea, Eric Bermea, Elias Vasquez, Amado Zepeda, Moises Cruz, Joshua Cruz, Moises Cruz, Jr., Carlo Zapata, Christopher Oliver, Jack Whatley and Charles Jackson.
A prayer service will be held Thursday at 7:00 p.m at Trinity Funeral Home.
Funeral service will be held on Friday, February 22, 2008, 2:00 pm at New Wine Baptist Church with Pastor George Zapata. Burial to follow at Heavenly Grace Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to his son's scholarship fund, Kaleb Matthew Cruz at Wells Fargo Bank.
Sign the guestbook at www.valleystar.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Cruz
Sponsored by John & Silvia Schleicher and family.
Lidia Zapata
February 15, 2023
Son
You have never gone unnoticed. I think about you ever day. Miss you so much
Lidia Zapata
February 15, 2021
I miss you so much son. There is never a day that goes by that question God why you were taken away from me and your family
Mommy Zapata
February 18, 2018
Miss you son, today your Tia Pita joined you and grandma in heaven. Love and miss you everyday. Mommy
10 years, RIP SON, LOVE YOU SO MUCH.
MOMMY Zapata
February 18, 2018
Mommy
December 27, 2017
Miss you everyday son. Merry Christmas and a happy New Year. I know you and grandma are in heaven and laughing like you used to when you both were home. LOVE YOU
RIP Tia Maria, Matthew James and Mom.
Mommy
July 16, 2017
Happy Birthday Son
Miss you everyday.
Mommy
March 1, 2017
Been too long since you have gone, RIP son miss you everyday. Take care of grandma and your tio santos and Tia Maria
Mommy
January 30, 2017
Miss you so much son, RIP say hi to grandma.
Skylar,, grandma and me.
Lidia Zapata
January 9, 2017
Today will be the visitation for grandma, I know you and her will have a wonderful time in heaven as you did on earth. Keep her safe son. Miss you so much and now mom, I know she is going to be taken care of mwell. LOVE YOU
Happy birthday 32 years old. RIP SON LOVE AND MISS YOU.
MOMMY
July 15, 2016
Aunt Silvia and Uncle John Schleicher
February 19, 2016
We smile when we see your photos. You always were positive, joyful, and fun! We miss you so very much. You left us so very soon.
Aunt Silvia and Uncle John Schleicher
February 19, 2016
We smile when we see your photos. You always were positive, joyful, and fun! We miss you so very much. You left us so very soon.
Skylar (brother) Zapata
February 18, 2016
Love you brother.
You are so deeply missed son. Love mom and brother Skylar
Lidia Zapata
February 18, 2016
RIP son, love you, miss you everyday. Love mom and brother SKylar.
Lidia Zapata
February 18, 2016
At Kaleb's 3rd birthday, love you
July 15, 2015
Happy 31st birthday son, there never goes a day, a minutes and a second without thinking about you. I miss you deeply. Thank you for watching over us and your family (Tina and Kaleb).
Kristina Cruz
February 18, 2015
Missing you Matt. You are forever in our hearts. With all our love.
Tina and Kaleb Cruz
Lidia Zapata
February 18, 2015
Miss you from
Skylar Zapata (brother)
Lidia Zapata (mommy)
lidia zapata
February 18, 2015
It has been seven years son since you left the world and are now with God, (our angel) We miss you so much and there never goes a day without thinking of you and how God has blessed me with a wonderful, respectful and handsome son. love you always Mommy
Lindsey Moreno
February 18, 2015
You are deeply missed Matt. Changed our lives forever..grateful for the memories. For God allowing you to be apart of our lives for that short time.
MOMMY AND SON
lidia zapata
February 15, 2015
Dad
July 22, 2012
Dear Matthew, I really miss u and love u but as I live here in this world I wait for God to call my number and when he does I will do what daddys do. It was hard being a single parent raising ur brothers but I succeeded. Now as a grandpa im raising Angel. He's just like ur bro Moses. Im trying my best to make him a cowboy to be in rodeo. I know ur watching him and he will make u proud, I will not say good bye cuz soon u will see dad but for right now I have to finish showing Angel the cowboy way. My song to u pa is to be a daddy too, by Tracy lawrence.love dad
Mommy
July 24, 2011
Matthew I miss you so much, there never goes a day that I struggle thru to get it going. I get so grumpy with Skylar that I pray to God to help me with him, he misses you so much too. There are times when he just say "Matthew would of ...." various times he just mentions your name. Your were 27 years old, remember you last birthday 4 years ago, how nice and happy we all were as a family. there are so many things I wish you were here so I could talk to you and you would help me. I have no one, only God and believe me he has helped me lots and lots of time. Love and miss you
Mommy
January 5, 2011
Happy New Year son, have struggled with the pain of my loss. I miss you so much. I keep telling Skylar that next year will be better, but it doesn't get any better. I miss you so much and pray to God to help me to get through it. May this coming Christmas i will decorate and put a Christmas tree up, the pain it just there and memories of our fun Christmas appear. Love you and thank you for somehow Kaleb spending time with us this Christmas and New Year.. Love you Matthew
Mommy
October 31, 2010
Son
I miss you so much, there never goes a day without me thinking about you. Skylar's 9th birthday is coming up and I would always ask for your advise as to what the theme would be and you inturn about ask "What does he want for his birthday." You would get it, i remember the electric hockey table.
There has been so many angels going up there with you and God.
Love you son and miss you.
Raquel
October 11, 2010
I have not been on here for a while but I have had a lot going on but I def want you to know that there are still many times that you come to my mind and all of the fun moments we had together!
Mommy
July 15, 2010
Happy Birthday son, you would be here home celebrating it with you family and friends. Beach time. Love you and miss you. God has been given me strength each and everyday to continue with my life. You know how much I miss you and wish it was still all a dream. Skylar misses you alot and you know how much he speaks of you, somehow he remembers special funny moments. Love you
MOMMY
June 20, 2010
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY SON. LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU. WITH GOD'S HELP I AM SURVIVING. FRIENDS AND FAMILY HAVE BEEN A BIG HELP. SKYLAR MISSES YOU SO MUCH HE KEEPS ON REMEMBERING THE TIME OF THE SNOW WE HAD IN THE VALLEY AND YOU THREW A SNOWBALL AT THE CAMERA. HE HAS SO MUCH FUN TELLING ME THAT OVER AND OVER. LOVE YOU ALWAYS
MOMMY
June 9, 2010
SON I MISS YOU ALOT THERE GOES A DAY WITHOUT ME THINKING ABOUT YOU AND PRAYING ABOUT YOU. THE WORLD CUP IS JUST A FEW DAYS AWAY. YOU ALWAYS WORE A ITALY TEES,, BUT YOU WERE ALWAYS LOYAL TO USA. I MISS YOU SO MUCH SON AND I WOULD SO ANYTHING FOR YOU TO BE HERE AND LIVE WITH YOU SON AND BROTHER. I WOULD TAKE YOUR PLACE ANYTIME. LOVE YOUR
Mommy
April 5, 2010
Son, the celebration is not here anymore without you. Yesterday was the resurrection of Jesus Christ and we did not celebrate it. We miss you so much and love you. We went to so see you and the memories are ongoing. I ask God why, why, why. A young man by the name of Matt James just went to be with you up in heaven. Love you and miss you
Mom
March 17, 2010
Son
I remember the Spring Breaks you would send Kaleb down and spend time some time with us. He was here for awhile and Skylar, Cristina and I tried to entertain him, bowling, carnival and lots of other things. I miss you and so does Skular and Kaleb Love and miss you son and the boys are growing up so much and full of knowledge. love you and miss you
Raquel Silberberg
March 16, 2010
Hello Matt:
I have not been on here for a while but it does not mean there is not a day I do not think of you. Well you know that already! I just heard something that reminded of you and I wanted to come on here and tell you hello and that I love you. My mom sends you her best as well. We were talking about you the other night as we were looking at old family pictures!
skylar zapata
February 18, 2010
i msss you and love you brother, i know you are my angel watchin me.
Mom
February 10, 2010
Son
I know that next week will be two years and we all miss you tremendiously. Skylar often asks me what I could of done, I tell him it was all in God's hands, God needed him more. I love you and miss you so much. Thank you for keeping an eye on your brother and son. Saturday's game skylar scored the 14 points out of 18, he was really doing great, and he said I know Matthew is looking down and smiling. Love you.
MOM
January 11, 2010
SON
SATURDAY WHEN I SAW SKYLAR PLAYING BASKETBALL IT BROUGHT BACK MEMORY OF YOU PLAYING BASKETBALL AT THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB. HE IS ALSO POINT GUARD AND HE MADE THE WINNING BASKET WITH 4 SECONDS TO GO. IT WAS THE MOST JOYOUS GAME FOR THE TEAM BECAUSE THAT WAS THE ONLY GAME THEY HAD WON AND THEY WERE HAPPY. SKYLAR LOVES PLAYING BASKETBALL JUST LIKE YOU.
I MISS YOU SO MUCH AND NEVER WILL UNDERSTAND THE WHY BUT I ALWAYS THINK GOD IS THE MOST POWERFUL PERSON IN THE WHOLE UNIVERSE AND HE NEEDED YOU MORE. LOVE YOU SON
Mom
January 4, 2010
Son
I am trying real hard to look over your son and he is doing good. Tina is doing a good job with him, he misses you so much. When he is with us he always asks question of your young life and how you were. He wants to be just like you M.J. and he wants to so bad to walk in your footsteps. I know you will guide him and Skylar to do their best. There never goes a day where I don't think about you.
the holidays are the worst for me because you were always there, we all looked forward to being together and having a cook-out. Skylar misses those so much. I love you so much and miss you. Please keep an eye on Homer he misses you so much and love you. You were his best friend. Love you.
January 1, 2010
Happy New Year Daddy. I love and miss you everyday. Love, Kaleb
January 1, 2010
Hi Matthew! Today is the first day of the new year. Last night I thought about our past New Year's Eve and all the fun at Lili's house with the boys, Cristina & Sabrina while you, Mike & Leo supervised them during the firecracker display. We miss you. You are always in our hearts. Your Mom is good and Skylar is such a big boy already! Wish us all a best year. Lety
Aunt & Uncle John & Silvia
December 31, 2009
There is never a day that our family does not see you, think of you, and pray that your family is doing well. You see, you are part of a family portrait that is displayed in our living room, where all the "boys" wore the white shirts. You had the dyed hair and wow, you are handsome. I cannot believe how we all have, with your help, and with God's help, held together after losing you so abruptly. For our immediate family, it was a year of highs and lows and utter sadness and joy. We know you are keeping a watch over us because we reflect on you, your wonderful life, and we do not take so much for granted. Thank you, Matthew, nephew, for keeping an eye on us. You are always on our minds and on our hearts. We miss you tremendously.
Mom
December 29, 2009
Matthew the boys planted poinsettas at your site they are doing okay. Kaleb to the right and Skylar to the left. They prayed for you this past Sunday at church. These boys really miss you and I do also. Love you and miss you tremendous
Mommy
October 5, 2009
There never goes a day that we don't miss you and Skylar and I look up at the stars and wonder which one is you. I know that Skylar and you talk alot when we go visit you and he stays behind and speaks with you. I never ask him what he says to you because that is between him and you. Love you son and miss you. Thank you for keeping a watch over all your love ones. Justin keeps you picture in his car and I know that he misses you alot. Love you.
little brother
July 15, 2009
happy birthday big brother
i love you and miss you and i will still jplay soccer in memory of you.
happy happy 25th birthday
love you skylar
MOMMY
July 15, 2009
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY SON.
I KNOW YOU WOULD BE HERE CELEBRATING YOUR BIRTHDAY WITH RELATIVES AND HAVING A BLAST. I MISS YOU SO MUCH AND HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO COPE WITH YOUR LOST.
MOMMY
June 18, 2009
SON
I AM SO PROUD TO BE YOUR MOTHER, I JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT I AND ALL YOU RELATIVES/FAMILY MISS YOU SO MUCH. YOU WILL ALWALYS BE A GREAT INFLUENCE TO YOUR RELATIVES/FAMILY. I AM PROUD OF YOU FOR PROVIDING FOR YOUR SON AND I KNOW HE WILL APPRECIATE IT WHEN HE GROWS UP. SKYLAR HAS BEEN ATTENDING BIBLE SCHOOL AND HE SAYS HE PRAYS AND TELLS PEOPLE THERE IN ATTENDANCE ABOUT YOU. HE IS SO PROUD TO HAVE YOU AS A BROTHER. HE EVEN BROUGHT HOME A PAPER PLACE MATT AND HAS YOUR NAME ON IT. OF COURSE I WILL SAVE IT AND PUT IT IN YOUR ROOM. THERE NEVER GOES A DAY,MINUTE,SECOND THAT I MISS YOU AND LOVE YO SO MUCH.
Mommy
June 2, 2009
Son
You would be so proud of your cousin Cristina she graduated from High School South, I remember when you graduated and took pictures of you and Skylar and grandma. It was a very joyous day for me seeing you receive your diploma all you hard work paid off. I am and will always be proud of you. I think about you everyday and still think what I could of done to save you. Please forgive me son for whatever I was unable to do for you. I will always be her for you son (my grandson) Love you always.
Mommy
May 11, 2009
Son
Missed you so much during Mother's day. Kaleb and Tina went by the house and grandma was happy to see them. Tia Josie was there also as was Irma, Cristina, Sabrina, Letty and Mike. Love you son and you are always on my mind.
Mommy
May 4, 2009
Son
I miss you so much. People keep telling me that the reason God sent for you was because I have Skylar. There is never a day that I ask WHY. Josie is coming this weekend to spend time with me and grandma for Mother's Day.
I wear the rings you gave me everyday and have never removed them. If my fingers were to get fat and hurt,I will leave them on. Not having you is the greatest pain I have.
Your cousin Cristina is graduating this year and I know you would be here for her graduation.
I miss you so much son and love you. The memories I have of you are the greatest any mother would cherish forever.
Mommy
April 12, 2009
Son,
Happy Easter.
I miss you so much and love you. Kaleb was able to spend most of the day with us and I know he will tell you about it. Skylar and I went to go visit you today and prayed. Skylar even prayed for his meals all day today. Josie and I spoke and she said if God was so great how come he has not resurrected you. We all miss you so much. I miss you so much son and long for you resurrection.
Mommy Lidia
March 25, 2009
Son,
I thought that on March 22nd would be my last day to submit an entry in the guestbook. But with the love that your cousins and aunts and relatives have it is on going to be on line forever. You are loved so much son, I just mourn for your always. I am going to submit more photos of the boys so you can see them and everyone. I know that you are taking care of them. Skylar misses you so much and is so happy when he wears your jersey, he is sad that this Monday was the last day for the playoff game. The Cardinals lost 2 to 1, but it was a great game.
Love you alot and miss you deeply.
Son here is Skylar wearing your jersey. He had a wonderful time. Cardinals won. Love you son.
March 21, 2009
Skylar putting beautiful flowers at your gravesite. Love you son.
March 21, 2009
Son, your jersey was on display at the Cardinal vs Hawk game. But in awhile Skylar got to wear it with pride and joy of being your brother.
March 21, 2009
SKYLAR BROTHER
March 21, 2009
Matthew,
Big brother I love you and am waiting for God to send you to me and mom and Kaleb to see you. So mom and everyone that loves yo will be happy again and smile.
MOMMY
March 20, 2009
Son,
This is my last entry in your guestbook. This year has been a real struggle. I love you and miss you so much. Skylar and Kaleb (when together) talk about you all the time. Skylar is always telling Kaleb how much you love him and always want the best for him. Watch over your brother and son that miss you as much as I so. Love you son.
Raquel Silberberg
February 18, 2009
My dear Cousin:
Today marks a year that we have lost you. And today more than ever is when I think of you and all the wonderful memories we had together. I miss you and carry you in my heart always and forever
Mommy
February 18, 2009
Son,
Today is a year that I have experienced pain like no other pain before. I miss and love you so much. Today is when your cousin Carlo and his wife are coming to the valley. What can I say you know how deep my pain is. I still remember the time we played baseball against you and your team when you were very young. Your were so happy because you got mommy out. We had so many, many , many good times. I love you son.
Mommy
February 15, 2009
Son,
Hope you had a good Valentine's Day. Skylar and I took you fresh flowers and put them in your vase. Aunt Josie and Uncle Jack also went to go see you and take you flowers. Skylar writes in his journal asking God when he is going to bring you back, because he wants the family to be happy. He misses you so much and after our visits, he asks to stay by himself and talk to you. I never ask him what he told you, because that is between you and him.It will be a year Wednesday, and I feel like it just happened yesterday. My heart is filled with memories and I have lots of things in plan to keep your memory going.
I love and miss you so much son. Thank you for keeping an eye on Skylar and me, the accident we had could of causes Skylar's life, but I know you somehow causes for me not to have more pain then the one I already have. I love you and thank you and I know you are watching your love ones.
Mommy
February 1, 2009
Son,
Today is the Super Bowl, I remember last year you were having a cookout for you and your family. We would keep in contact, of course you were going for the undefeated Patriots, and I was going for the New York Giants. We would call each other and laugh because your team would be up and them my would. It was a very joyous Super Bowl. Memories in my heart are very priceless. I love and miss you so much son. I always ask myself if only I would of done one thing different, If, If, If. I mourn for you each day and thanks to the family/relatives and friends that I am able to cope with your loss and try and get through the day. Cristina is doing very good in soccer. Your name is announced at the Harlingen Cardinals soccer game at the home games. Your are truely missed.
I know you would be going for the Cardinals, because I always knew your likes and dislikes, that is what a mother knows. I go over the Mother Day cards, birthday cards and some letter (you wrote to me when you were in elementary),. I will always cherish them and thank God for providing a loving son, brother, father and husband. Love and miss you everyday..
Mommy
January 18, 2009
Son,
Skylar wants to thank you for watching over him during Saturday's basketball game, he shot the winning basket at the buzzered. He was so proud, that he said "Matthew is here and he helped me."
We miss you so much and can not express the pain and grief I feel everyday for not being able to see you. I know you are watching over us and keeping us save. It is difficult to realize that it is 11 months that you went to be with God. I miss you tremendously son and always ask myself what could I have done to change that day, I keep asking myself that.
You know how much I love you and miss you. You always brought joy to your family and relatives, we all miss those days of us getting together for whenever you came down to the valley and we all had a cookout. We have wonderful memories that we all carry in our heart. Love you so much son.
SKYLAR MALALCKI ZAPATA LITTLE BROTHER
January 1, 2009
brother
happy new year, my nephew was with me. love you matthew and miss you so much, God did not want to bring you to me, because he said he needed you. i love you so much brother. HAPPY NEW YEAR 2009
MOMMY
December 31, 2008
SON
LOVE YOU SO MUCH. HAPPY NEW YEAR SON. TINA AND KALEB WITH TIO LEO AND HIS FAMILY CELEBRATED THE NEW YEAR HERE AT HOME. MISS YOU SO MUCH SON AND MISS YOUR SMILE AND YOUR HAPPY FACE. IT IS SO HARD FOR ME TO KEEP A HAPPY FACE, BUT I HAVE TO FOR SKYLAR (MALACKI). LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU.
HAPPY NEW YEAR AND PLEASE KEEP A CLOSE EYE ON YOUR BROTHER AND SON FOR THEY MISS YOU SO MUCH
Sil Schleicher
December 26, 2008
To Lidia,
We totally miss Matthew immensely and we struggle with what to do, what to say. There continues to be a big hole in our hearts and a huge emptiness to try to deal with. It has been a very sad journey for me, Sis. To see your courage and your fortitude has given me courage. I, too, replay the past over and over again. I have the natural guilt that comes with not doing enough, not saying the right thing, or doing or saying the wrong thing. My family is commited to keeping his memory alive, Lidia. Matthew can not be replaced nor forgotten. . . ever. Matthew must be looking down on you and feeling quite proud of his momma. He always looked out for you. Your steadfastness is so incredibly unimaginable for me, Sis. I send you hugs and kisses every day and every night... May God continue to give you the strength you need for you and your family.
SKYLAR MALACKI ZAPATA
December 25, 2008
Matthew
Brother, God and Santa send me a note and told me that they need you more, but I still do. I love you and miss you a lot big brother.
MOMMY
December 25, 2008
MERRY CHIRSTMAS SON
IT HAS BEEN A TERRIBLE MONTH. SKYLAR MISSES YOU SO MUCH AND SO DOES KALEB. A SANTA LETTER HAD TO BE SENT TO SKYLAR TELLING HIM WHY YOU COULD NOT BE WITH US THIS YEAR. YOU HAD TO BE WITH GOD AS HIS ANGEL. SKYLAR CRIED AND CRIED BECAUSE HE REALLY WANTED YOU, BUT HE UNDERSTOOK THAT GOD NEEDED YOU MORE. KALEB SPEND SOME TIME WITH MALACKI YESTERDAY, TOOK THEM TO THE CEMETARY AND TO SEE YOUR SIGN. THAT WAS A ARTICLE IN THE NEWSPAPER AND IT HAD THE PHOTO OF YOU AND THE BOYS LAST CHRISTMAS. LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU SO MUCH
Mommy
December 18, 2008
Son
Miss you so much, son. Son Skylar wants to be called Malacki, because it is "Messenger of God". And when he found that out he said he loves you so much for giving him that name. He is so proud of you that you gave him beautiful names. He misses you so much and cries often and prays that his letter to Santa is answered. Homer's mom calls often to see how we are, wonderful lady. The boys are doing great in school and I know you would be very proud of them. I miss so much seeing you smile and making us laugh. Please watch over your family that misses you so much and loves you. Love you and miss you son.
Raquel Silberberg
November 27, 2008
Matt Happy Thanksgiving Day ! There is not a day that we do not think of you. We miss and love you so much...
Mommy Lidia
November 27, 2008
Son,
Happy Thanksgiving Day, I don't look forward to the feast, without you there. Skylar wishes you a Happy Thanksgiving Day too. He can't wait to see Kaleb today, hopefully. I think about last years Thanksgiving Day. So many things have changed, I miss you so much, just waiting for the day I will be right next to you so you can tell me how happy you are up there next to all you relatives. We will have lots of catching up to do. I keep thinking this is terrible dream, when I wake up all would be like before, celebrating together and you making us all smile and having a good time. Please see over you brother and son. Love you and miss you alot.
Mommy Lidia
November 18, 2008
Son
Today is 9 months of suffering and sorrowing for your loss. I miss you and so do your little brother. Your son Kaleb also does. He is doing great as well as Skylar in school. Your are proud of them both I know. Skylar's wish was for you to come back and be with us. As you can see when he wrote to you. Keep a close eye on them and watch over them Love you and miss you every single minute. My heart is just full of memeories. Love you and miss you
skylar little brother
November 16, 2008
brother
mom asked me today what i want for christmas and i told her "i want my brother back" love you and miss you everyday.
Mommy
November 9, 2008
Son
I miss you so much and so does your family. Skylar was so happy when he let the balloon go last Sunday honoring the "Day of the Death'" Heavenly Grace had a special day for all the angels. Hope you received Skylar's message. I still remember last years Bird Bowl where the Hawks outscored the Cardinals and you were upset. Well you would of been very happy because this year's Bird Bowl belonged to the Cardinals, where they outscored the Hawks. Thank you for sharing last year's Bird Bowl down in the valley. Love you son. People keep telling me that up there it is beautiful and that you are so happy, but I still miss you and maybe I am selfish but I want you here instead of up there. You are going to have another relative up there with you and Uncle Jack, Uncle Santos, cousin Sandra, Uncle Chico and now Aunt Beatrice. I hope you are close to them as you a were with you cousins and aunts down here. I know you will or already have met them and have been sharing speical days and events. Love you son and miss you so much.
skylar zapata
November 2, 2008
Brother,
tell God when you are coming back home. did you get the ballon i let go today at your cemetary .i love you .
Mommy
October 31, 2008
Son.
I miss you so much. I remember last Halloween that you got to buy Kaleb a halloween costume. I miss you calling me and telling me what his costume will be this year. Skylar knows that celebrating will take time and he hasn't even bugged me about a birthday party this year. I tell me what he wants for his birthday and he says Matthew. This is from Skylar telling me. Mom why did Matthew leave to Houston, why didn't he just stay here with us like before. He misses you so much.
Son you would be so proud of your son and your little brother. Their report cards were outstanding. Both got the same awards, except for attendance. Skylar got that perfect attendance certificate, like you when you were in elementary. I think he is going to do very well this school year, as Kaleb will. Just watch over both of them. I don't know when and if this pain and sorrow is every going to go away. I don't celebrate because you aren't here on earth to tell how exciting they will be, now nothing is exciting. I miss you so much. Son all I want is for you to tell me or show me that what I need so know, (you know what it is). Lots of love son.
Raquel Silberberg
October 28, 2008
hey matt i have no idea what is going on but i am a firm believer now more than ever that you are with us all because the other day i made a picture collage for Mariana and put it in her room w/ pictures of all of her family and i put a picture when we were all small and we had a family reuion and we took the picture infront of grandma's house and today when i walked in her room she smiled at me and said Matt and giggled. which to me is amazing because since she started school her vocabulary has gotten so much more clear. i know you are probably the one watching over her and i thank you for that. this saturday is her birthday party we are having a minnie theme i wish you could be here with us to celebrate but i know you are watching over us more than ever. love you
Mommy
October 26, 2008
Son
Yesterday the boys won their first game, Kaleb scored 2 goals and Skylar 1. They chest bumped each other and of course Skylar almost dropped Kaleb. They had lots of fun and were very happy, very, very happy. I took the boys to see you and Kaleb told you "I love you daddy and miss you." Kaleb got to spend the weekend with Skylar, which made Skylar very happy. Skylar misses you and wished you were here to guide him as a big brother you were.
The following is from Skylar."Matthew I wish you will you come back. I really miss you and my mom misses you too much. I love you Matt."
Son I still have last year's bird bowl t-shirt I wore when you came down to the valley for the bird bowl, I placed it in your room, with the picture of us and Kaleb. I do not wear the t-shirt. I love you so much son and miss you everyday. I wish all this had never happened and I wish I had done something to prevent it. I am so sorry son, please forgive me. I would of done anything for you, you know that I love you so much. Skylar is what is keeping me going, I love him alot. Thank you for being his big brother and always you having a special place in his heart.
Mommy
October 18, 2008
Loving son,
Today is 8 months of pain and suffering I have been having since you left us and went with God. I miss you so much son and always think if I had only done one thing son, one thing different you would be here and asking me what does your brother Skylar wants for Christmas (lost happy holidays are not happy anymore). You would be telling me if I was going to the Bird Bowl. The Hawks won their first game yesterday and of course the Cardinals this year are doing great.
The boys have a game today and pictures, it brings back memories of when I had to take you to your soccer games and grandma and your aunt Maria would always go. Then after the game of course go eat.
Son I am doing things to keep you memory alive, which I know that anyone that knew you would and could not forget your handsome smile and your joking ways.
Love you son and miss you every day. My heart is full of thoughts about you and those thoughts are going to be cherished with others.
Look after you brother and son that love and miss you alot.
Tia Sil y Tio John y primos Kenny y Willy
October 13, 2008
Matthew's family,
This past weekend was painful and joyful. Carlo got married and is very happy. He had a slideshow at his wedding reception and he had three slides of you, Matthew. Some of when you guys played together as children and the one of everyone at the pizza place in Austin when we attended your other cousin's, Isabel, wedding. It brought a tear to my heart to know that you were not there in the flesh but so much in spirit. You made such an impact in their lives and they love you so much. We had a joyful time in Mexico and we are so happy that you were able to find a loved one and to start a family before you left us here. We love you Matt.
Mommy
October 12, 2008
Son,
Aunt Josie came down this weekend. We went to go see, which she does whenever she is down. She went to go see the boys play soccer. She was very impressed with how the boys played. She enjoyed seeing Kaleb for that while. Skylar keeps telling me that it is okay if he doesn't celebrate Halloween. He understands and also about his birthday. He understands that celebrating is not what it used to be, knowing that you are not here. I know you will be here spirtitual, but it is not the same. We miss you do much son. I think about you everyday. You will always be in my heart, how could a mom forget their child. Especially when it was because of you we celebrated. I know things are changing, but only you know what is going on. Love you so much.
Kristina Cruz
October 9, 2008
There's not a day that goes by that I don't think about you and miss you. I miss you so much. No one knows the extent to how much my heart aches because you are not here. I feel lost at times because you were my other half and I lost you. I love you so much. Kaleb wants me to write, "Daddy, I love and miss you". And, he does so much also. He wore an old soccer jersey of yours from when you were little and he looked just like you. I look into his eyes and see you in them. You have taught him so much and he is going to be a great man because of you. I know you are proud of him and I hope you would be proud of me too. He brings home these pictures from school that he drew of his family. You, me, and him. You would love them so much like I do and I hang them in his room. I Love You for Always Baby!! Love, Me
Mommy
October 5, 2008
Son,
Skylar and Kaleb had their first soccer game Saturday. They lost, but they played wonderful, you would be proud of them. I still remember the Saturday phone call you made to me after your soccer game. You will always be a great coach and I know Kaleb loves you so much for being his daddy first and then his coach. Love you so much son and miss you everyday. I always ask "What happen that day, how come I didn't receive that call" I miss you so much and pray that someday you will appear to me and tell me "Mommy I am fine and God is taking care of me"
Mommy Lidia
September 21, 2008
Dearest Son
On the 18th was a very sad day as is every day, but this September 18 is also a good day because you would be so proud of me. It was a day that you and I would celebrate as mother and son and had a good time. Love you son and miss you. Skylar misses you alot and waiting to see you in heaven. Just keep watching over you son, Skylar and us all, we need you to guide us in the right path. Lots of love son. Thank you for giving all you relatives and family those special wonderful days, and very memorable. Love you baby.
Mommy Lidia
September 18, 2008
Dearest Son,
I wrote you earlier, but apparently it has not been posted, could be because of the damage hurricane IKE has done to various states, especially to Galveston and Houston. Today is your seventh month of your life up there with God. I know God brought you to this world for a purpose and now he needs you more. You have shown us down here about the beauty of being together as a family. Your idea was to always be happy and enjoy life. We miss you alot down here and treasure all the fond memories we shared with you when you came down to the valley. Your son and brother miss you so much, as I do. There never goes a day when I think maybe one thing I would of done different, you would still be here with us. Love you son and miss you totally with all my heart. All the memories are in my heart, but I am spreading it around as to how proud I am and will always be of you. Lots of love son.
MOMMY
September 14, 2008
Son
Kaleb send Friday night with us. Took him to see you. He really misses you and wants you back. Sklyar protects him and tells him that you are coming back very soon. Remember the 2005 hurricane, Rita, well Ike headed toward Houston and left lots of damage. Miss you and love you so much. Your cousins from Boston, California. Dallas and Oklahoma were down a week before school started. They had lots of fond memories of you and loved you room. I will always keep you memories all around me and in my heart. LOVE YOU ALOT AND MISS YOU SON.
Raquel Silberberg
August 28, 2008
Matt just heard a song from Whitney Houston from the movie the Bodyguard and I just remembered one night that the whole family had gone to Pizza Hut and we were being silly and for some reason we did something so we were told to settle down and your mom was upset and that song came on the juke box that was there and you began to pretend you were Whitney Houstin and started to sing the slow part to your mom and you broke her because she started laughing. Memories like that are the ones that make me smile all the time because that was just like you to always do something to make other laugh always wanting to bring a smile to our faces.... I love you so much and carry you in my heart always. Mariana is getting big man she is already in K-1 and today was a good day because she went in to her class all by herself and did not cry so I am glad for that. Matt she is so silly she loves to see me smiling and that is helping me a lot these days because you know things right now are a bit on the rocky side for me but seeing her makes it all worth the while. I know you drop in on her once in a while just watch her for me. I am getting home sick already and my family and I are planning to go to the valley soon so I promise as soon as I get there I will go visit you. I love you cousin !!! Take Care
August 27, 2008
Hey,Matt, your cousins, Will and Kennedy came with your mom and me to see you and bring you a red and white bouquet. Your loved ones have done a lot to have your plot look pretty and neat. I heard Grandma will be resting next to you. She used to babysit you,,, you know...
You would be proud of your cousins who remember you and they prayed a little prayer for you. You were so good to keep the cousin relationship going as much as possible. Your mom is keeping the house together. She would make you proud.
Raquel Silberberg
August 26, 2008
Hey Matt sorry I have not written to you in a while its not that I have forgotten about you or anything but as you know things have been a bit crazy for me the past couple of weeks but there is not a day that goes by that i do not think about you. You know Mariana started school and she looked so cute in her uniform. As I was walking her to class i saw a mother and her sister and a little girl and boy they were cousins and they were going to school together and at that moment I thought about you and me back in our Sam Houston days there we were the cousins. I miss you Matt Love you !!
Kristina Cruz
August 24, 2008
Today is our 6 year anniversary. I went to Kemah where we spent our last wedding anniversary. It was a lot harder than I thought it was going to be. Kaleb and I love and miss you so much. We talk and remember all of our wonderful memories. Happy Anniversary Baby, I love you so much.
Loving you today, tomorrow, and always, Kristina Cruz
MOMMY LIDIA
August 18, 2008
Remember
Remember me when I am gone away,
Gone far away into the silent land;
When you can no more hold me by the hand,
Nor I half turn to go yet turning stay.
Remember me when no more day by day
You tell me of our future that you plann'd:
Only remember me; you understand
It will be late to counsel then or pray.
Yet if you should forget me for a while
And afterwards remember, do not grieve:
For if the darkness and corruption leave
A vestige of the thoughts that once I had,
Better by far you should forget and smile
Than that you should remember and be sad.
By Christina Rossetti
The Poetry Foundation
MOMMY ZAPATA
August 18, 2008
Matthew.
Six months today, on a Monday also February 18, 2008 at 2:00a.m. I know God needs you more than we down here need you. Love you son and miss you so much. I have tried various ways of trying to deal with you death, but your memories are so great that I have so much grief and sorrow everyday. Yesterday Kaleb's other tooth and he saved it. Kaleb and Skylar miss you so much son.
Love you and miss you so much, lots of love.
Mommy Lidia Zapata
July 22, 2008
Matthew,
Today we are in a hurricane watch, I still remember when Katrina came, you and you family came down and stayed in the valley. You got to know your cousin from League City and you all started to bound. You were always the type of person that could make friends easily due to you character. I love you so much and miss you. Skylar prays with me when we go see you almost every day. He misses getting to spend time with Kaleb, but it is okay he cherishes the times he does get to spend with him. Love you son and miss you. It is still very hard for me to realize you will no longer be here, your smile and laughter and calling your little brother Skylar ca,ca,cay. He still remembers you calling him and and he wants me to call him that. Lots of love and keep an eye on your brother and son that miss you alot like I do.
Mommy Lidia Zapata
July 18, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008
Mommy Lidia Zapata
July 18, 2008
Mathew,
My dearest son today will be five months you were taken away from your loved ones. We miss yours smile and laughter, but we have very, very fond memories of them and the happy days that will always be treasured among your family and friends and co-workers. I love and miss you so much. Kaleb and Skylar also miss you everyday, but they also remember the fond memories you shared with them. Take care son and I know you will and are keeping a close watch over your familly. Thank you for giving me so many years of love and understanding. Love you and miss you/
Uncle
July 15, 2008
Hi Lidia,
I can't imagine the pain that you are going through today. I hope the
days is not too upsetting for you. Think of the bright side. Matthew,
lived a very happy live; you provided and did so many things that single
moms would never dream of doing with their sons. Be happy that you
spent the time with him. He was well guided by you. Now guide you
little one. Matthew is happy and I'm sure misses very one of us, and we
miss him too. Happy birthday to him and to you. Rita and the kids send
their love to both of you. (Oh yes, and Skyler too.)
Sally Wells
July 15, 2008
Matt,
Happy Birthday you crazy kid!!! We all miss you very much and love you.
Sally Wells
Lety Travis
July 15, 2008
Matthew, Happy Birthday! I know you can see from Heaven how much you are missed. Thoughts of you are with us always, but never more than at Lili's house. We see chasing Kaleb & Skylar, Sabrina & Cristina around the yard. Through Kaleb you will be with us forever. The Travis Family
amanda zapata
July 15, 2008
matt,
i want to wish you a happy birthday and even though we didn't get to see each other a lot these past couple years i miss and love you. i cherish all the memories we had together. have a wonderful birthday!
love always
Mommy Lidia Zapata
July 15, 2008
Son,
HAPPY 24TH BIRTHDAY, MATTHEW JAMES ZAPATA CRUZ. I miss you so much son, your cousins miss you alot too. I wish you would be down here planning you birthday party with us. As always beach time. Even though I am not a beach person, I still went to the beach because you were so important to me and I always did things like it would be our last, not because of death, but because maybe next year you wouldn't be able to come down to the valley. Remember we always planned Kaleb's birthday parties, always thinking it might be his last one down here in the valley. So we always made his and yours very special. Your smile is all over in my bedroom and in you room. Remember "I Still Miss You" by Keith Anderson
Kristina Cruz
July 15, 2008
My Dearest Husband,
There is not a day that goes by that I dont think about you. I miss you so much. We shared so much between us for so many years. I have all of our wonderful memories always with me in my heart. I wish you were here with us today so we could hug and kiss you and wish you a Happy 24th birthday. But, I will feel your hug and kiss as I wish you a Happy Birthday today. Kaleb misses you so much. He and I have so much love for you. He remembers all the wonderful times we had together. I hope I am doing as good as a job raising him as we would have together. I know he still remembers all the things you would tell him and I know he will carry them with him forever. Baby, we love and miss you so much down here. We have you in our hearts always. And Lidia, thank you for raising such a wonderful son. You know how great Matthew is and its because of you. I am thankful to have a great husband and a wonderful father to Kaleb.
Mommy Lidia Zapata
July 15, 2008
Son,
HAPPY 24TH BIRTHDAY MATTHEW JAMES ZAPATA CRUZ!!!!
Son I miss you everyday and they never goes a day without me hearing "I Still Miss You" by Keith Anderson. I try to understand why you were taken from your place on earth to be with God as his angel. I know you are watching over us and probably smiling, because you always had a special smile that getting upset with you was just not possible. I know you would be down in the valley celebrating you birthday with us down here. I know you would have a joyous and wonderful birthday. The scripture in the article was actually submitted to you by Skylar John 3:16, he loves and misses you so much. Lots of love the kisses. This is what read in the article, very difficult to download with a clear view.
Not that I am gone
Remember me
With a smile and laughter
If you need to cry
Cry instead for all
Who walk beside you
When you need me,
Put your arms around someone
And give them
What you need to give me.
I want to leave you with something
Something bigger than words
or sounds
Look for me in the people
I've known and loved
Or someone I've helped
In some special way
Let me live in your eyes
As well as in your mind
You can love me the most
By letting love live
Within the circle of yor arms
Embracing the frightened ones
Love doesn't die
People do
So when all that's left of me
is love
Give me away
Love and Miss You Matthew
"I love You" John 3:16/John 13.34
"Do not fear for I am withyou, I will strengthen you and help you" Isaiah 41:10
Your Cousin Raquel Silberberg
July 14, 2008
My dear baby cousin Matthew I want to wish you a very Happy Birthday We miss you so much and you have no idea how much we need you now days. Your son is such a handsome young man and he looks just like you more and more each day. I always took for granted
That you were there for me and all the things you did for the family there I now can see I have to smile knowing that we have this connection because for you my dear cousin I have so much affection I love you very much always remember this in this message I send along with this birthday wish.
I love you so much and there is not one day that I do not think of you or carry you in my heart. I love You
The Diaz de Leon Family
July 14, 2008
Thank You for touching our lives in such a short time. You always knew how to make us laugh and always made us feel alive. We miss you and love you. And all we can really say is thank you for being apart of our lives and for letting us be apart of yours. To Tina and Kaleb we love you and we are still here if you need anything. To my Tia Lydia And Skyler we are here for you also. We love you!
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