Matty,

I love you mate. Always have, always will, and you knew that.

You’re all I could ask for in a brother, and then some.

I hope they’ve issued you a trumpet up there!

Love,
Your brother, Tim.

Thankyou to everyone who has taken the time to write in this space. It is such a comfort knowing that Matty’s life touched so many people. The amount of wellwishes, prayers and assistance we’ve received this week has been unbeleivable.

I’ve got so many good memories of my little Bro. I’d be here typing all month if I were to write them all down! I’m going to hold onto these and remember them whenever I miss Matty. I urge anyone that reads this to do the same.

No matter how many "What If’s" I think of it can never bring Matty back. I really hope that something positive comes out of this tragedy in the years to come. For anyone who is depressed or is struggling with life please speak out to loved ones, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or Life Line on 13 11 14.

While there is so much hurt, shock and sadness, this pales into insignificance when compared to Matty’s kind spirit, his smile, talents and loving personality.

I Love ya bro
@-;--

Matty,

My heart grieves deeply that I won’t be able to wrap you in my arms and give you a "hagga pagga" but I know that you are now firmly wrapped in the loving arms of Jesus, your Saviour and friend. God knows the love that we shared... so deep... and very special!

You are, and always will be my precious "Gift from God". You were with us for only a short time and I know how much you struggled to stay with us. I give thanks for your life and am at peace knowing you now have a new body and no more pain.

You will forever hold a very special place in my heart. I’ll see you in "dreamland" and meet you by the rainbow.

ALL my love, Mumbles. xoxo

Matty - My heart will always ache for your presence - you left us far too early. I know you are finally at peace but it is so sad it had to be this way. I will always love you.

Thank you for the joy you gave me and all who knew you through your caring spirit and beautiful music. There are so many memories to treasure.

Play one for me matey - Love always, Dad.

The pain is so deep. It hurts so much. Matty we love you, but you knew that, we shared that, and I am so grateful for that. I know you left us with love in your heart. We can’t say goodbye. We wont say goodbye. We are just going to say "We’ll meet you in dreamland" Sweet Dreams my beautiful, talented nephew. I believe you are safely in the arms of our Heavenly Father. I know where to find you when the day comes and we will all be reunited. Hugs, Hugs and more Hugs xoxoxo

Hey Matty,

Hope you’ve started a band up there already man.

Matt,

There was no way anyone could not be welcomed by your smile and out of the world personality.

It is a pleasure to call you a friend

May God peace be with you family, and impact on people never leave us

In Peace.
Ashley

Hey Matty,

I dunno what to say mate - we never got to know each other as well as we could of - but today I have realised how much of an impact even our brief interactions has had on my life. Your enthusiastic and cheerful friendship will not be forgotten.

Owen Family - my prayers and love are with you.

God Bless,
Ben

Matty, we’ll miss you mate. You always made me smile with your enthusiasm, and you always made me feel like I was important to you. You’re a champ.

Thanks for the good times.
-Firemuncher

Matt,

Although I only had the privilege to be a part of your life for only the past two years, it has truly been an honour. Your honesty, talent and constant kindness and gentleness will not be forgotten.

To the Owens and everyone grieving in the church, we love y’all.

Stay strong,

- Aaron and Claire

Matty you will always have a place in my heart. i still laugh when i remember brad tickling you in the hallway at your place when we were kids. we used to have some fun times. playing chicken on the road and just being kids. you’ll truly be missed. Love you stax Matty, love Kel

Matty! your the man

how can anyone forget your smile? I love you man, I will see ya there. Make sure you keep a bass player spot open in your band!

Matty,

knew you through Tim and Mel. You impacted my life and had a smile that cut to the heart. MAy you shine in heaven with angels. Thoughts and prayers are with all those you impacted.

I’ll see you when I get there.

Brendan

That pic sums matt up. Music, I always remember Matt at school playing music, being in bands and having fun.

Matt, Rest in peace big guy.

Sam

Woah.
You are a good man matty. You will be missed by many.

my prayers are out for you all,1 cor 10:13 my God heal your hearts!tim again i am sorry and i will be praying for you and your family.blessings from ohio usa.hugs

hey matty,
u were the best cuz i could eva ask 4. u meant so much 2 me and ill neva eva 4get you. ill miss u so much. u were alwayz there 4 me and i trusted u wid my life.
i kno ull be happier now but u could hav still been happy here with us. we all luv u and miss u. rest in peace mate xoxoxox

With tears running down my cheeks I say "Matt, you bloody legend". Such an amazing guy, I will miss you so much. Always so friendly, always a mate. See you in 50 or so years mate. (I hope)

Matty,

We only chatted once on IRC, love you bro, see you infront of the Throne.

To all the Owen’s family, our thouthts and prayers are with you all as you go through this dark valley.
John 11:25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:

Matty,

Good luck mate, you were allways a top guy to be around. Will miss you :(

Tristan

Matt,

In the brief time I got to know you you always left a mark with me! you and your brothers are all truly talented and are gifts from God! play hard in heaven!

Suresh

To the Owen Family, our God is not so small that He cannot carry you through these difficult days. Know you are being lifted up in prayer daily for the strength, the compassion, the love that only He can give for that healing touch during the time of dealing with Matty’s death. You are in His hand yet, and He will carry you through!

Love,
Fran and Howard (momteach4 and GotTobTru)

Matty,

The first thing that came to mind was ’Pete’ll be loving it now he’s got you in his band up there!’.

You were a bright spark in many people’s lives and will be sorely missed I’m sure. I trust you’ll touch just as many lives up there.

It was an honour to know you in this world and I’m sure we’ll catch up in the next.

I’m so very glad you’re now at peace mate.

~ Amanda

It’d been too long since I saw you last.
Seeing this photo of you makes memories flood back.
Hanging out and chatting at youth group, playing trumpet together (well, you playing and me pretending I sounded as good as you),
you DJ-ing at my 18th...
Man, you rock and were always a great mate.
Love you buddy
xoxox

We shared alot of good times together man, I only wish I could been there for more of the bad.

You will most definitely be missed.
Love, Brenda

I didn’t know Matty personally, but I was a fan of his band and amazed by his musical talent.
My love, thoughts, prayers and best wishes go out to all of his family and friends.
xox

Dear Matty,

I worked with you for over a year at Coles and you made that horrible place worth coming to. I don’t really know how to react right now except to say that I will miss you, your passion for music and your beautiful heart - It was so clear that you cared so deeply about the people around you. You gave me some of the best guidance in the world and there are so many people that love you. You won’t be forgotten. Thankyou for being a friend.

-Jonathan Brown

rest in peace matty. timbo, jezza & family, you’re in my thoughts. take care of yourselves.

Matty

What can I say, It was an honour to have
known you and called you a friend.
You need only to look at the comments
and support of everyone that knew you to
see how many lives you’ve touched.
You’ll be missed mate.

To Jeremy, Tim and the rest of the Owen family,
I’ve known you my entire life and I’m a better
person for it, my thoughts and prayers are with
you and I’m always here for you.

Brad

Matty,
It is obvious from looking at all these people that loved you, that you were a very special person. The following is a stanza from one of my favorite songs:

"I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love? Did I point to You enough
To make a mark on things?
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace who
blessed your name unapologetically
And leave that kind of legacy"

From everything I’ve read and heard from Tim and Garry on Dalnet, Matty left that kind of legacy...

My prayers are with the Owen family during this time of loss. Much love to you all.

Kim

Matty,
U were an awesome bloke and listened to me and made people feel like they matter. That was an awesome gift you gave to me.

Matty, so many memories, so many letters. I read through them all last night and even tho the were from years ago they are my little pieces of you to keep forever.
I pray that you are in Heaven with God and Peter Sullivan, finally at peace, happy and whole. I wish you could have known how many people love you and wanted you here.
I will miss your face, your friendship and everything about you that made you so special.
You my friend will be in my heart forever and always missed.
So much love,
Meg XXX

i dont know what to say. i am so sorry to hear that. matt and i have only been friends for over than a year but he was the most important friend i had. he understood me like no.one else. i cant speak.

I didnt know Matt, but I knew his brother Tim.... From reading about Matt and the things people say, its obvious, honour, loyalty, love, friendship, and a love of Jesus Christ, are prominant in this family. From over in Wales I write, and shed a tear when I heard. I want your family to know Matt, that I am with them in prayer, and love them dearly. Jesus be with your family. And let us all praise him for the impact you had on others lives. Give him all the glory!

A brother on the other side of the planet.

i know you are happy now with god, and just know we will always remember you and we will always love you, We will remember you as you always have been and always will be a shining star in our lives. miss ya heaps mate.

We only met Matty the one time, but in that short time, he touched our hearts. He was kind, open and caring - someone you could instantly strike up a conversation with (and we did!).

One member of a special family - and one who will be greatly missed.

Tim, Jeremy, Gary & family, our thoughts are with you..

id give anything to hear half your breath.
Life aint alwayz wat it seems to be, words cant express how much u mean 2 me. even though ur gone, we still a team.

My heart goes out to the Owen family during this difficult time.
You have such a wonderfully loving family and I wish you strength in the near future,
All my love
tash xoxo

Matty from the first day I met you in year 7 you were a awesome mate. I’m so thankful for the amazing person God made you and will always remember the impact you had on so many lives, through your great personality and amazing talent of music.
You will be sorely missed mate,

God Bless
Alex & Sarah Thompson

Hey Mattie

What can I say? You are my best friend and always will be! I may have only known you for almost a year. But it was through you and your heart I learnt what it meant to love!
Mattie, it was through you I learnt to pray, you have been my prayer partner over this last year... You helped me see my future and taught me to see the bigger picture! I love you now and forevermore!

My prayers will continue for the Owen family! May God comfort you guys throughout this time.

Matty,
i only knew you for a few weeks but over those few weeks you and your kind heart touched me in a way i will never forget. Thank you for the memories we made in the short time i knew you. i will allways think and be reminded of you even from a thing as common as a powerpoint in the wall.
love you heaps xoxox emz

Tim, Garry - my Grandparents who you met in Tassie are remembering you all in prayer

I don’t even know what to say.
Matty, I love you. I only knew you for a short time but I have so many amazing memories.
My prayers are with the Owen family.
I’ll miss you, Matty. I know you’re having fun and making lots of noise where you are.
xo

Thanks for the good times Matty. We’ll rock again one day. You’re part of the worship team in heaven now.

My prayers go to you and your family. Love you mate.

Slim.

DJ Matty

I’ll miss you mate. I always enjoyed your company, and seeing you worship our Father through your music. I know that you are now rejoicing with in heaven with Him. God Bless you.

~Nigel (a.k.a Neo, as you called me)

hey Matty

sorry didn’t get to know ya that well, i hope the sunscreen worked that day at the beach and thanx 4 making that day more fun than it would have been without ya there. c ya in heaven.

i’ll keep the Owen family in my prayers

Matt, you were always so happy and we’ll always remember you that way.
All our love and prayers to the Owen family
Love Erin and Nicole

Hey Matty,

Although I didnt know you (only through close friends), it still saddens me to hear you have gone. You are now with our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ in heaven. Rest in his loving arms. May you make music to praise and worship our heavenly father with!

Say hi to my uncle Peter Sullivan (Sully) for me me. I’ll meet you in heaven one day :-)

God bless you brother in Christ.

Melissa Sullivan

Matty,

Even though it’s been a while since our school days together, I’ll miss looking out for your face at Coles to have a chat, and hearing what you’ve been up to. You are, and always will be an amazing and talented person - never forget how much you are loved. xx

matt, your battle with the dark one is now finished.
i believe that, rather than walk in the shadow of the dark one you chose to stay in the light while you had the strength.
I know your soul is not dammed because of this, and on the day of judgement you can say "rather than live in the darknes i chose the light"

your uncle xo

Gary,Tim and Jeremy,
I heard about your loss, and wanted to let you know I feel very sad for what you must be going through....Please know I’ll be keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers and in my heart, and wishing you all the strength and comfort you need, today and in the days to come. xoxoxo
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort,who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.( 2cor 1:3-4 nasb)

Matthew, alough we didn’t know you, your death has touched us through your Aunty Cathy, Uncle david and Emma-Lee. These people are great friends of ours and we feel for them deeply. We hope that with your passing has brought you peace and serenity. Rest in Peace Matthew, may god be with you.

Matt! What tha?!!

There are so many people who love you down ere. We are none but grateful for being blessed with your company. THANKYOU for the time we did get.

Want to say thanks for "the handshake", the aquired coke, the tour, primo and the beach. Those group activities were some of the best. :)

Bro, one peice of advice for ya- don’t get kicked outta heaven... I’d really like to see ya there when I rock up!

Love ya, Bec

hey matt
i only got to know these last couple of months while i was working with. but you were one of the kindest men id ever met, u were funny and brightened up everyones day.
u will be dearly missed and i hope u rest in peace.
maddy xxx

i didnt know you for very long but you made my lunch break so much more fun. you will be greatly missed, my best wishes to your family in this time.

Well, what can i say? I am still in shock,
I will always remember your smiling face Matty, your welcoming friendly personality, and your amazing musical talents. Love you heaps, see you up there in time.

My thoughts and prayers are with the Owens now, i pray that God’s overflowing love and comfort are surrounding you all at this time.
with love,
Claire

Shock & Peace are the words that come to my immediate mind, Shock of what has happened, Peace for Matty now. Matty, please say hi to Jesus for Me, I Pray For you and all your family, I Pray that you are now at peace. May God Bless all of the Owen family at this tragic time and I thank Him for giving you all, the strength you need right now He WONT let you down. Lots of Love. Kevin Scott UK {_-^Kev^-_}

DJ Matty

My Best Friend, Brother and consult.

Your drive and passion is not only something that people feed off but I believe that it was one of your purposes of being here. You are so loved my dear friend and have a lot to show for your short time. Using your gifts to bless others not only through music but through your amazing patience and ability to listen and understand people and empathise with whatever situation they would have. The amount of situations (particuarly involving females) we have talked through, and you have helped me through are amazingly.

You are my brother. Whenever we split we also mended, and we can just talk so freely without reservation. I am so privaliged to have been part of your life for so long. In two decades we couldn`t be split and I loved you every bit of them.

Whether it was your magician stage, where we would put on a show for our parents and I was your assistant.
Whether it was a doctor stage, where I was your patient.
Whether it was the french stage with your beree
Whether it was your DJ stage where you pumped out the groove
Or your seeing you use your God given gift of your trumpet playing.

Some of my fondest childhood memories are with you. Starting with SPOTLIGHT!! Well it started out as a great game with our brothers in the Owen back yard,(Tim and Jon always in a tree or on the shed roof)it ended up up all wearing black and army camoflage face paint and Bellvue Heights Primary and getting pulled up by the police because they thought we were burgulars.
Also when we would go and busk in Rundle Mall (Damn we were cute) playing tune like Blind Man, Wonderful World and Don`t get around much anymore. Quite often coming home with enough for that ever addictive Iced Coffee.
When we played basketball on saturday afternoon by the clock set a routine to make it possible to stay over at one of our houses where we would stay up most of the night talking about well lets face it GIRLS.
When we would explore find things and go places we knew we shouldn`t be.

Your influence will always drive not only myself but also others. Your love for people, not wanting them to go or hangup just to be with them is a great example of your genorous personality. I remember being at work, with someone, or at dinner amd being on the phone to you and it was so hard to hang up and it it very rare these days to find someone with so much enthusiasm to just love and be there for you.
Good old Easter camps eh!!! Its like the perfect compromise. You get heaps of boy time, lots of girl time and lots of God time. What else does a growing teenage boy need. Our growth in god through those years and seeing you become a man are particuarly special. I miss your voice and opinions.

But none of these experiences compares to pulling out our horns and playing a good old Sully song. For instance Cover Me, Damn, from that first note you knew we were there for business. Also funky a song up with harmonies and rhthym like My Redeemer or This is how we overcome. Together I felt like I was flying. Nothing to stop us, No boundaries, just Matt, me and God. Love it!!!!! The recording sessions were another highlight of which yu were a star.


I miss you so much my dearest friend and will always keep you in my heart. Not broken but as someone who loved me and someone who you had a bond with which nothing could ever break. I feel so many emotions and have so much more I want to say, but I shall leave with my love, prayers and a peice of my heart.

Isiah 40:28-31a

Do you not know? Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth,
We will not grow tired and weary,
and his understanding no one can fathom.
He gives strength to the weary
and incleases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles.

Your Brother
Ben (Shlongden)

Garry, Chris, Jeremy, and Tim

You guys are also so special to me as you all had an influence at some point in my life. You are the ones as his family that planted those seeds in Matt as a child that gave him such passion for everything he did. Letting him know that you always loved him and that eveything he touched turned too gold. (As it did) We would often talk about how our families are going and at what ever point any one of you were at, he always brought the positive and always talked with such love in his speech and eyes.

With Love
Ben

Matty,

Always happy to lend and hand, get involved and smile all the way along. So sad to see you go mate, rest in peace. My prayers go out to the Owen family whom I know will find this hard - love to you all.

langy.

Matty - I loved that no matter how much time had passed since seeing each other you would always want to stop for a chat! Your smile and cheery greetings would always lighten the mood and I’m so glad to have these happy memories of you. All those years in sunday school wouldn’t have been the same without ya!
We’ll miss you.
Love Heidi

Although I know not this lad, My heart goes out to you and yours during this tradgic time, as well as my prayer, may the lord jesus ease your pain, and may the legacy of this lad shine on through the rest of your days and beyond.

The lord has given us all the gift of life, to influence the lives of other in many ways, likea ripple in the water, all that we do is spread out throghout the entirety of the world, so although he may be gone, all that he has done, and all the lives he has touched will go on as well so he is not really gone, but remains a memory which you can all carry with you into eternity.

May the lord comfort and guide you, my prayers will be with you.

Matty,

We have been and always will be proud of you Matty. We will always remember you, your life, your passions, your achievements, your laugh and your smile. We will listen to your trumpet, your voice, and remember. You finally found what you were searching for.

You will be missed so much by us (and everyone that you came across!).

Before you ask, Jake and Elwood are doing well. =)

All our love, Timmeh Timmeh, Melliegrub, Jake and Elwood. xoxo P.S. You’re going heaps good. P.P.S. God can do anything. P.P.P.S. Hutnyut!

Matt, it is so sad that you are no longer with us all but it is a relief that you are no longer in any pain. Your battle is over. You were the reason I went to Bellevue, because I had such a whopping crush on you....but you know that ;)I’ll never forget you.
Well miss you.
COndolances to Tim, Jeremy, Garry and Christine. Our thoughts and Prayers are with you.
Kelsey Chambers xo

hey Matty
i didnt know you for very long but for the short time i did i could see what a great person you were.
ill miss fighting with you over the salad bar and calling you over when we were bored.
comming to work wont be the same anymore.
thanks for the time we had.
you will be deeply missed
Morgan and sophie xoxo

Hey Red,
I literally tripped over my Timpani when i first heard you play at Marryatville. I’ll never forget Europe in 2001, my happiest memories of you are still at the top of the Eiffel Tower!
Do you remember the first time I met your grandparents and threw up on their boat? I do, because you tried not to laugh and I tried not to cry.
I probably never thanked you for pushing me to audition for lead vocals of the Marryatville Big Band, even though it wasn’t exactly necessary to ACTUALLY push me down the band room stairs ey?
Your laugh was contagious, you ran like a girl and you always talked about your family.
Owen family, my thoughts are with you, I’m so sorry for your loss. Matty will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
Be happy Matt, Hutnyut!
"Keep Swinging" as James Morrison said to us!

Love Sas xox
ps. Iccariamochatachichimo!

As I read all of these beautiful tributes to Matthew I am reminded of my own depression and deep dispair. Matthew would be absolutely amazed at the response and outpouring since his death and I needed to reach out to others who may have similar fears and thoughts. Never, ever feel you are alone. Keep reaching out until someone hears you and takes your hand in theirs. Though Matthews pain has ended, our has only just begun and if he could see this outpouring I feel he may not have left us. I know he struggled, I have been there and I know how he must have been feeling to do what he did but there is another way. Matthew’s death was not in vain. He had a purpose here on earth and has left us a true legacy, reach out and touch somebody’s hand, make this world a better place, if you can. When you fall there IS someone to lift you up. It may be your faith, your family, your friends or even a stranger at the end of the phone.

The pain for those left behind is immeasurable so PLEASE, PLEASE, dont keep it inside. Every life is precious, especially yours and you will get through it.

xoxoxo A Survivor

Matty,
Hey mate its erin hope you are in peace, even though you aren’t here with us but i hope you don,t stop playing the trumpet.
When we meet again i hope you are still as cute and funny, you always knew how to put a smile on my face.
will miss you heaps and i will think of you forever.
love you heaps erin.
P.S I will play with your Hair Again One day HA,HA,HA.

Such sadness fills our hearts knowing we will no longer enjoy Matty’s presence. Matthew touched many lives in many ways. In our family we remember him DJing at birthday parties, his awesome drumming and singing, but most of all that amazing trumpeting which gave us "goosebumps", his lovely friendly smile, the chat over the counter at Coles, many years of "just dropping by to say ’Gidday!’", and more recently - walks together to talk about life’s tough issues, a warm hug, so many seemingly "little" things that make an important life impact on others... erhaps we all need to learn how important these things are to others and we would focus more on what really counts in life?

We know Matty loved Jesus and that he is home with his heavenly Father, no doubt making music and singing praises... He is at peace and at rest, so we do not grieve wthout hope of ever seeing him again. We just didn’t want him to leave us so soon. We wanted him to "Choose Life!"

The loss to Matty’s friends will be felt for a long time but to Matty’s family, your loss is the hardest and our hearts really go out to you all, especially to Tim, Mel, Emma, Jeremy, Chrsitine, Gary and your extended family. Remember "the Lord hears our crying" (Psalm 6:6-8) "The Lord is close to the broken hearted"( Psalm 34:18) He knows and understands how each of us feels and he wants to bring us comfort. It is our prayer that God will provide His comforting love and bring you peace as you walk through this saddest of experiences. Even though the loss is immense, we trust God for his unfailing love, help, strength and refuge in this time of sorrow.
Our family’s thoughts, prayers and love are with you all,
Much love from
Anne & Hugo, Simon & Kathryn, Edith and James van loon XXXXXX

Matty,
I can’t believe any of this and really don’t want to. You were an awesome mate, and I always loved having a chat to you even if you were drunk and slurring your words!! I’m going to miss you SOOOOOOOO much, and will certainly hate not having you at my birthday party on friday.
It’s been great knowing you for 9 or so years, playing trumpet wit you at school etc.
You’re now in a bloody fantastic place and you better be entertaining everyone with that trumpet or I’ll have a go at you when I finally get there!!!
Love you lots Matty,
Love Jen. xoxoxoxoxoxo

Matty - No one will fill the biscuits like you did... I’ll miss walking down the isle and seeing your face....

Kelly from Foodies... xoxo

I don’t know Matty, he worked with my daughter and her friend at Foodland, Brighton. They had a lot of fun with him, took photos and simply enjoyed having him around. They are upset and distressed and cannot begin to understand how or why this has happened. Of course they think could they have said or done something to make him happier, if they had but know he was so unbearably sad about life. To turn back the clock, have him ask for their help, that’s what they would want to do if they could. Matty is very much missed by all his work companions.

Matt i haven’t known you for that long, but long enough to say your a bloody amazing guy! Thanks for all the laughs we had at work and your friendly smile its enough to make anyone happy. Works not going to be the same with out you.
You will be deeply missed by everyone.
Bianca xx

Matty its breaking my heart that your gone. You ment so much to me, I would give anything just to give you one more big hug. I hope now that the pain is over you realise how special you are. Your kindless, thoughtfulness, passion and cheekiness ;) will be remembered forever. I miss you so much, I have so many fantastic memory that I will cherish forever. I know we will see each other again one day but until then Rest In Peace sweety
Ill never forget you, you’ve left a massive gap that’s going to be hard to fill
Love ur buddy Kat :* (thats a kiss)
To Christine, Garry, Tim and Jeremy my heart goes out to you I hope you find peace in knowing how much everyone utterly love Matty.

heyy matty, i hope ur having fun with ur new trumpet and new band. We were closer than blood and ill miss you forever.

Fond memories of early days we shared together. Condolences to all the family.

Matt we was just starting to be really good friends. Your hospitality was awesome and so was your music. You came a long way and inspired me. I feel privileged to have heard your story and was waiting to hear you tell it at your baptism which you were so passionate about. I will miss our long deep talks and fried eggs!!!

Hey Matty,
Missing you already, I wish you’d come to me like you said you would.
I hope you have finally found the peace you spent so long searching for.
I will never forget your smiling face. You were one of the most wonderful people I ever met. Everyone that met you loved you and I was no exception to that.
I hope where ever you are you are smiling and wearing your happy hat :)
Love Liblamapoodle (I hate being called that so I hope you feel special)
xoxoxoxox

Matty,

Remember that song…
I can see clearly now the rain has gone
I can see all obstacles in my way
Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind
It’s gonna be a bright bright sun shiney day

I think I can make it now the pain has gone
All of the bad feelings have disappeared
Here is that rainbow I’ve been praying for
It’s gonna be a bright bright sun shiney day

Look all around there’s nothing but blue sky
Look straight ahead there’s nothing but blue sky

And then babysitting……the song … You and Rebecca (both just 3 and a bit years old) and you never got tired of singing … The Rainbow song

Why are there so many songs about rainbows?
And what’s on the other side
Rainbows are visions but only illusions
And rainbows have nothing to hide

Our dearest Matty we shall miss your beautiful smile, your impromptu visits, our chats, just everything. Psalm 69 was always our prayer for you.

We know you have found the Rainbow connection.
Someday we will find it too, the Rainbow connection in Eternity.
We take comfort that you are in the arms of Jesus.

Garry, Christine, Jeremy, Tim, Emma and Mel
Our family’s thoughts, prayers and love are with you all,

Much love from
Martin, Linda, Rebecca and Jacqui.

Matty,

So many years, So many memories. I will always remember our chats while we walked home from primary school. You were always there to hear my hurts. Thank you for being so special.

I will cherish the time we spent growing up together, you were like a brother to me.

I am so sorry I was not there for you like all the times you were always there for me. I am gonna miss you Matty!!! Until we meet again....

God Bless

Love Bec

I didn’t really know Matthew but I knew who he was. We grew up in the same church and I’ve long looked out for any of the Owen family up on the stage during the services and at various church events - a sure sign I was really going to enjoy the music! From the brief contact we had I saw a beautiful, gentle and humble soul. My heart goes out to his family and friends.

Love and Prayers are with the family at this time. Even though we didnt really know matty we still are grateful that he contributed in the band Left In The Changeroom. Im sure every1 will miss ya matt. u really seemed like a nice bloke and we wish we had gotten 2 know ya.

Our distance does not reduce the sadness we feel with Matty’s passing. He served the Lord in many ways that have influenced us over the years, and his trumpet playing during worship added something special that we will always treasure. Thousands must have been touched in this way over the years. I remember the trip Matty made to Europe to play as something special.

And the chats with Matty at Coles just reinforced the community that exists at Blackwood Hills, where we are all one big family, and it is our true home.

Gemma will miss talking to Matty after church about her latest adventure.

Our prayers and thoughts are with you Gary, Christine, Jeremy and Emma, Tim and Mel, as well as our Blackwood Hills Family and all of those whose lives were touched and enriched by knowing Matty.

But God is good, He will see us all through this, and Matty is now home with the Father.

God Bless,

David, Liz, Alyssa, Sam and Gemma

Matty
I haven’t known you for the longest time, and yet in that time you made me feel as if I’ve known you forever. You are a wonderful person who has brought nothing but light into my life (and, I’m sure, not only mine). When you were present it seemed there was an aura around you, that in turn filled the whole room and engulfed the people around you.
I am so glad to have known you. And so regret not getting to know you better.
I will remember your beautiful blue eyes, your contagious smile, your wonderful personality. You are unforgettable.
You were always an Angel, my darling, and you will stay with everyone who knew you forever... You will always be with us.
Love, Star

To the Owen family.. I am so sorry... Knowing how much I am hurting having only know Matty for a short time, I can only imagine what you are going through. Matty has reached out to many, without even so much as a realisation of himself doing so. He has truly made a difference - something many of us strive to do. He has gone somewhere where he is happy, but he will never really leave the ones he loves, and especially not those who love him.
All my Love to you.
Anastasia

I lived next door to Matty when he was living at Torrens Park, My housemate and I spent many nights with Matty, talking and getting to know each other.
His humor, his smile, his laugh, him asking us if he looks OK before he went out (and us having to often fix his hair for him) I’m going to miss him dearly, we all will. But I know, now, that he is safe and at Peace. "God Bless Your Cotton Socks Matty" Love Blayke!! xxoo

Matty,
we’ve really missed you at work the past few days, but don’t worry we are making sure we keep the salad bar full and tidy.
we miss our walking stationary man and now we have to decide for ourselves what chocolate looks exciting.
we’re missing you warm smile which was always enough to make even the worst days seem better and we’re having to come up with new ways to pass time when were bored, so we just keep working and end up getting out on time.
missing you Matty...
love you heaps
from the foodland deli girls xox

Hey Matty,

What can i say... Always loved spending time with you over the years. The owens have been like a second family for me and you are missed by all of us.
I’m so sad to see you go but but know that you are finally in peace.

P.S - Have you filled the lead guitar position in your band up there? :)

Love ya mate,

Jezza

Tim, I just want to say thank you for making this site available to people who need to share their feelings since the news of Matty’s passing. As you can see Emma-lee has visited a few times and she is feeling the loss so deeply. This is really helping her and I thank you for that. It also allows people to express themselves in a way that is non intrusive, knowing the family can share in their grief and allow people to connect with the loss. I noticed Aunty Margaret sent a little note, and I know that will have comforted her as have all of these tributes. This is an absolutely amazing and special place. In a way, people feel a little closer to Matty and it gives them a chance to say good-bye.

Thanks again Tim. Mel you are a sweetie. Hugs to Jem & Emm. xoxoxoxo

“WHY I DIED�
Written for Matty’s 18th.

First thing I recall, lying in my bed
Rubbing my eyes and shaking my head
My mouth was wide open but I couldn’t move
“W-w-what th…� was the best I could do
As the vision lit the dark, it grabbed my hand
And led me through myself to another land.

I was back in time, it seemed, by the fashion
And I’ve never seen anyone try with such passion
For a room at an inn, but the innkeeper stared
Repeating himself, “We’re full, I just said!
The best I can offer’s the floor in the shed.�
I saw tears on the lady’s pure face, my heart bled.

For hers mirrored mine. As I looked again closer
I recognised the innkeeper’s face, but what’s grosser
Was the scar just below the innkeeper’s eye
Not gruesome you see, but the innkeeper was I!
I watched on helpless, unable to speak
Again my world faded, my vision so bleak.

But soon I could see, and I thought I was home.
Wrong once again, for I was not alone
Again the scar showed me my face on another
But this man was me, for I have no brother
The girl at the gate with eyes so subliminal
Accused, “Weren’t you a follower of that criminal?�

I saw myself then deny my best friend
My heart broke again as I knew I was penned
Three times I denied the man on death row
At that very moment a rooster did crow.
The everyday noise had much more significance
As my friend on death row was convicted in innocence!

Time seemed to speed up, weird, like fast forward
Then it stopped … I thought it for sure would
Have made me feel sick. But no, I felt fine
I looked all around, many faces, not mine
I followed their gaze to the cause of the commotion
As I turned my head to see – it was all in slow motion.

There were soldiers around me, they were laughing an swore
And pointed to what all their curses were for.
Still in slow motion I looked to the sky, the midday sun was blinding my eyes
The shape of a cross, and a man, hanging high, bleeding and thirsty and ready to die.


I took off my helmet and put down my spear
I was angry, confused, and I think it was fear
All my friends were mocking him. I felt out of place
So I yelled “SAVE YOURSELF!� and I spat at his face
It went high, hit his eye, started dribbling then stopped
It slid down the curve of the scar. And I dropped
I fell to my knees and the pain was insane
The man was dying in my place and the shame
I couldn’t stop crying the hurt was intense
That I didn’t acknowledge His love so immense

I woke up this morning, back in my bed
Still feeling the pain in my side where he bled

I get out of bed and I roll back the stone
And I start my new life. I am not alone.

“Why are you looking for the Living One in a cemetery? He is not here, but raised up.� Luke 24:5-6

Matt,
I don’t know if you’ll ever get to read or hear these messages of love, but we have to tell you anyway. If there’s the slightest chance of you ever finding out – which there is – we love you. I suppose we’ll tell you when we meet in our Father’s house, if we’re not overcome in His love.

I’m really a bit jealous of you, beating the rest of us to a pain-free, tear-free, sinless eternity. I’m sure you won’t be disqualified for taking a shortcut, but still, it’s a bit cheeky.

Taking one’s life is murder, as you know. And Jesus took murderers to himself, the same as he took the rest of us, who only murdered our brothers in our hearts. I’m trying to say we’re all murderers, and we’re all forgiven. Praise our Lord!

I suppose you’d better get back to washing your robe in the blood of the lamb. I’ll see you soon enough, Matty. Wow, it’s so amazing to think that MY friend is now in the company of Moses, Abraham, Noah, Paul, Luther, MacDonald, Chesterton, and Lewis, let alone our elder brother Jesus and our Father himself. Although, come to think of it, we are seated in the heavenly places ourselves, hid with Christ in God. But for us it’s just a taste, and for you it’s everything.

See you later mate,
Louis.

All of us - sinners, falling short of God’s standard, striving daily to do what the Lord wants for our lives but with Satan trying to find a way in any way he can.

Matty - now perfected in Christ and out of Satan’s reach, we are saddened by the way this happened but are joyful that you are safely in the Lord’s arms forever now.

No words can express the difference you have made in our family’s lives and especially that of my family, the Wagner’s. We will miss you for so many reasons but especially for your wonderful gifts of musicianship and mateship. Now released from your earthly struggles you are free to bring worship to God forever. Thank you for sharing your journey and your gifts with us all.

At this time we also remember all those who have been touched by Matty’s presence in their lives especially the Owen family and Ben Longden (we know that your standing friendship was important to Matty). Our thoughts and prayers are will you all from our family here in Canberra.

All our love
Kristy Bennett also on behalf of Michael, Karl and Peter.

Matty,

I had the priveledge of meeting you a couple of times. You have touched a lot of people during your brief stay on earth, and you will be greatly missed. I always enjoyed the times when you were on stage playing your trumpet - the tunes you created were fantastic! Rest eternally with our Lord Jesus Christ....

My prayers are with the Owen family during this time of grief. May God bring you comfort and protection.

i’ll always remember you Matt!
the way you changed everyones day and put a smile on all our faces.
i only knew you for a couple of months but the times we shared at work and the way you always made me laugh will stay with me forever.
Love always Katharine xoxxoo

Dear Tim & Jeremy
having been through a similar experience with Dan’s beloved and talented sister, Sally, who died aged 18, we share your shock and grief.
Seek comfort in Jesus, who makes all things new, and will give you the courage and strength to continue living for Him.
Love Monique & Dan xo

Dear Matty,
I miss you heaps. I had to pass on the message to allegra today.
we spent the day in tears.
you are so greatly missed by everyone. So many people love you.
I miss your smile and your laugh, and just being able to talk to you.
Everyone you ever met, loved you.
We miss you so much
xoxo
Ill wait for the day when i see you again. Much love, Annabel.

With tears flowing I remember your smiling face and the pain hidden inside you - the pain i have often felt too. I wish i’d had the opportunity to get to know you better. Your smile and music would help the sun shine through my dark days and through losing you I hope more people will be reached out to and reach out for help like I did. Thank you Matty for teaching us the lessons we need to learn. Our thoughts, prayers and hearts are with your family but I have great comfort knowing you are now safely in God’s hands. So many people love you that you didn’t realise did. Watch over us. I will search for you when I reach the other side when God decides.
All my love Jess xoxoxo

To Dear Christine and Family,
I am so saddened by the news of the loss of your son Matthew.
I pray you can cope with such grief.
I know you will have so much love and support.
Please stay strong.
I treasure every moment and will remember you in my heart.

Take care.
Love and thoughts and prayers are with you.
Christine Orgias
Tonia Twomey’s sister

Matty Owen! ha, that famous name. It still is. Im not sure you know the extent of the fame to which that rose :)

Remeber how Coles was my favourite Supermarket? I stopped going there after you left. haha i had no specific reason to shop there, when you werent there.


We never had those drinks. And who am i going to tell my stories to? Im sure your up there waiting to hear them. I’ll save them all up :D You know they’ll be good.

Although I am sad that i cant have you hear with me, now, It comforts me to know your battle is over.

The school girls say hi! Genna, chiara and Jess and Danielle from subway to. And, i expect a litcr cd waiting for me, when i see you next ok? Signed and autographed by the famous Matty Owen :D

You made me feel so special matty owen, and i hope, at least for a while i did the same to you. I cant believe your not hear anymore, but i look forward to the day, when we met again.

The girls and I, are going to make you a little something special, on the bench outside coles :D ill tell you all about it when its done.

You will never be forgotten.
Love Always,
Allegra

Matty, my fellow trumpet player with MTW. It had been too long since we last played together and it hurts to realise that it I will have to wait till I join you in heaven to do it again,
You were one of the funniest guys I have ever met and the nicest. Thanks for all of your support both musicaly and just as a mate.
I’ll seeya again. Keep those lips warmed up, we’ll praise God together again oneday
R

I didn’t know Matty very well, and left the church some years ago now, but I will never forget this one time after church, I was going through some stuff at the time and Matty (who I only knew through the music and through Ben) came up and was chating and we got talking and he was really nice, shared some stuff he was going through at the time and offered support. It shows what a caring person he was that he would care about someone he barely even knew, and it really helped. We talked a few times a while after that. It’s so sad hearing that this has happened to someone so friendly and young and talented. I hope he has found the peace he sought, and that others who have been there on the brink would learn from this that there are so many people out there who love and care about you, and are willing to reach out, even when you may think there is no other option than to leave this world forever, because God knows the world can look horribly dark at times, but we need to remember that it is beautiful, too. I hold you all in my heart who are grieving at this time. It was really touching to read all your memories of him. And Matty, wherever you are now, I hope it is somewhere beautiful.

Matt,
everytime i saw you, you had the biggest smile on your face, a contagious one that everyone was welcome to.

whenever i think of you i remember how we laughed whenever we spent time together.

You were a cherished friend to many, and all will cherish their memories.

Kim xoxo

matty i didnt know you but i am jj closest mate and by the way your family acted when you passed i know you where a great man and am sad i did not get to meet you
from todd
lots of love to jj’s family

i wrote something on the day matty left us and i just wanted to share wa i thought about matty.

Feburary 21st 07 was the day, a brother was taken,
just ripped right away.

He wasn’t my brother, but he was closer than blood,
but he passed like the petal of a rose bud.

his spirit was a light that shone form above,
we knew he would be there when push came to shove.

He was a great musician he made everybody proud,
but we gotta stay strong even though he’s not around.

In the future when i lay down to rest,
we can sit up there an have time to remanis.

miss you love JJ xoxo

Matty, your beautiful smile was an ever present blessing in those late night coles shifts. Thanks for the fritz, hugs and the laughs! I know that you are with God and have finally found your beloved lost trumpet, so the fact that I will get to see and hear you play again sometime in the future brings comfort to me and so many other people in this time of greif. I grew to love you matty in the short time i knew you. I will miss you, we all will, especially, when we play ’the stone’s been rolled away’, for it wont be the same without your trumpet!
Don’t worry, ill keep Jon sane... well try anyway!
Much love and one last giant hug for now...
Anna xoxo

ok Matty so i know i already said something to you and i know avril lavigne probably isnt your favourite singer but...
i listen to this song and think of you =[

"Slipped Away"

Na na, na na na, na na
I miss you, miss you so bad
I don’t forget you, oh it’s so sad
I hope you can hear me
I remember it clearly

The day you slipped away
Was the day I found it won’t be the same
Ooooh

Na na na na na na na

I didn’t get around to kiss you
Goodbye on the hand
I wish that I could see you again
I know that I can’t

Oooooh
I hope you can hear me cause I remember it clearly

The day you slipped away
Was the day I found it won’t be the same
Ooooh

I had my wake up
Won’t you wake up
I keep asking why
And I can’t take it
It wasn’t fake
It happened, you passed by

Now you are gone, now you are gone
There you go, there you go
Somewhere I can’t bring you back
Now you are gone, now you are gone
There you go, there you go,
Somewhere your not coming back

The day you slipped away
Was the day i found it won’t be the same noo..
The day you slipped away
Was the day that i found it won’t be the same oooh...

Na na, na na na, na na
I miss you



Thats for you Matty Owen.

Dear Matty

I watched you grow from a baby to a young man. I took you to school some times. I saw you at youth group. I saw your pain but could not touch it. You were a gem. Rest in peace. You will be greatly missed. Thank you for your music.

Matty,
I loved the fun times that i got to spend with you. I wish i could just talk to you once more. There are so many people that are going to miss you and there is a great loss for your family and your friends. I was very proud of you and there were many that were proud of you. Im really lost for words, you will hold a special place in my heart. I will miss you very much matty

Oh Matty

I just want you to know that I love you stacks, and there are so many good times that I shall hold dear to. Lying on the floor under my heat lamp talking and praying on the phone with you for hours, chatting on the benches around the front oval as you had your daily (if not twice-daily) BJ, ’crazy stuff matty poo’, my 15th birthday (geez it feels like ages ago!) when you gave me the bottle of valve oil, the two days ;) (or was it even less hehe), gambier, and the countless days when we couldn’t be bothered having sectionals, or sitting on the wall outside your front door chatting til the mosquitos made a meal out of me. Chatting to dave and luke about some of your antics over the last few days has been quite amusing; the dolphin that apparently lived in your trumpet continues to make me smile. I miss you stacks matt, you were the absolute best. I cant wait until the day we can meet again in such a better place. i look forward to it in anticipation, you will always be in my heart!

Love you champ!
xox Tickles


To Christine and Garry and family, my prayers go out to you in such a hard time. May you find rest and peace in our Lord and Saviour. Your son was such an inspiration to many, and a great mate. He will be deeply missed.

’Bugle Boy’ as we named you to our boys after seeing you perform at a Anzac Day Service at Blackwood. We’d seen you at church on stage playing the drums and the trumpet before but this really captivated us and showed us so much more. We are proud to be part of your church family and enjoyed talking to you at our church, Coles, Foodland or whenever you needed a snack from the Bakery. It was a privalege knowing you and we pray you are in a happy and loving place now.

Our prayers to your family and friends at this time.
All our love, Michael, Jodie, Mitchell & Nathan

The Owen family including Matty came into my life about 10 years when I and my children needed a lot of love and support, when at times things got really tough for me Matty would put his arms around me and give me a big hug (squeeze) and say Chris it is going to be alright we love you we will always be with here for you, the times we shared a meal and then inevidebly ended up playing playstation games, events like that I will treasure forever and they will be in my memory for a long time As recent as last Saturday week I sat at BJ’s coffee lounge and had a chat to Matty and Chris (his Mum), Matt asked about the Ali, Steve & James in turn, Matt reminded me again with a hug it will all be alright Chris we all love you, so Matty my love I will miss your hugs and most of all your great big smile. So Matty you make sure that you are getting your great big hugs from our heavenly father and he is giving you a big smile and saying Matt it will be alright I love you.

To the rest of the Owen family my prayers go out to you at this time, Love to you all

Chris, Ali, Steve & James

Matt, you will truely be missed. I remember all those years ago mucking around having fun like there was not a care in the world. You made my mum’s 50th wonderful with your DJ skills. It was a pleasure to have you playing drums or trumpet in my music team - I knew things would go smoothly when your skills were concerned! Thanks for the memories.
Tim, Mel, Jeremy and all family and friends my love and prayers are with you all.
Gen

Matty,

I am so sad that you are gone. So sad that I didn’t get to say goodbye. You will always have a place in my heart. You are such a beautiful man and whenever you smiled, so did I. I loved you like a brother and will always will.

Whenever I hear the trumpet play, I will think of you. Continue playing your trumpet Matty.

You will never be forgotten.

Love Megs xoxo

To the Owens,

I can not begin to contemplate what it is you are going through at this time. I want you to know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Matty touched so many lives and I am so honoured that I knew him for the time I did.

Love Megs

Matty was a gentle soul,a good friend & a very talented musicial.Rob & I will miss him..... See you later on Matty.

you left me without saying goodbye, to a place somewhere up in the sky. You were a friend so real and true, people like you are rare and few. I am left to wonder what went wrong, but i cant change the past and now you’re gone. Ive got to move on and look ahead, remember the good times and never forget. I am slowly beginning to start new, but one things for sure,
Ill never forget you...

Lots of love and BBIIIIIGGG hugs.

Emma-lee xx

Matty

It’s hard to believe you have gone. I only knew you a short time, but it was a pleasure getting to know you.

Matty, it really is OK to beat box to Kylie! That night was a fabulous one and it wouldn’t have been the same without you. I wish there could be more like it

There are many memories that I will hold dear and I hope that you finally find the peace you have been looking for.

Love

Twistie
xx

PS

Thank you for the Ice Blocks!

PPS

The Meerkats will miss you too – eeeeeeeekkkkkkkkkkkk!

Dearest Matty,

No matter how much time had passed you always had a special smile, a warm hug and a kind word.

You touched my heart Matty.

I treasure memories of you.

I know you’re at peace now honey.

Love always,

Rhi Xxx

On behalf of the chapel band ’J-Rock’ at Seymour College I would like thank Matt for helping us out with our first ever performance. He was an extremely talented musician and certainly wowed us with his skills. He was a great guy and a pleasure to be around.

My dear matty,
To my dearest friend and yr.11 I.T. buddy,

I’m sorry i wasn’t there for you,

I’m sorry the strength you showed on the outside wasnt as strong as the strength in your heart.

I am happy you found the answer, you were looking for but not the solution we wanted to hear.

You always made me smile, you always gave me your shoulder and most importantly you understood and i undertsood you.

Rest in eternal happiness my dear friend, we will meet again, in the next chapter of our lives.

Your music will forever be in my mind and your smile always in my heart.

Loved Always

Never Forgotten

Matthew Owen

Rest In Peace.

21.02.2007

Matt,

It has been a dull place since u left coles and I remember the times (be it early morning, lunchtime, or afternoon) and me giving u and/or putting aside the odd left over donut, cookie, mini cheesecake or custard tart.
I then remember u hiding around the corner of the deli in the bakery eating them, all the while poking your head around the corner looking for customers, or even worse still, the managers, with a slightly guilty look on your face. ;-)

U used to put a smile on all of our dials (especially when doing dress-ups in the deli) and there were a lot of fun times.

We’ll miss u Matt, and I hope u have found what u were searching for and are at peace.

-Melly G

matty....

I didnt know you very long....but i miss you already.

Your a great guy and i loved working with you!

Singing Peter Combe with you would have to be my favourite memory.

Light a candle for those we mourn.
Into a new life they will be born.
Do not look for them at the gravesite.
They are somewhere else radiating their beautiful light.
They have gone to a new world where there is no darkness, no pain.
Their light and essence will always remain.
Light a candle for those who have left this mortal place.
They are free to travel through time and space.
When we think of them, they are near.
When we sit in a beautiful garden. Their voices we hear.
When we listen to a divine symphony,
We close our eyes, their faces we see.
Light a candle for they have not really gone.
With each flickering flame, in your hearts they will always belong.

Love you heaps.

Love Jourden
xxxx

Matt,

I know that now you’re finally at peace. This world can rob anyone of the feeling that there is hope and potential left for them, I wish I’d had the chance to show you that there really was.
I want you to know that although we did not speak often, the closeness that I felt to you and the knowledge that somehow we were on the same level was something I will always cherish.

I hope we meet again one day, in a different world to this, but until then take it easy mate.

Tim G.

Words cannot express the loss that this has brought. You were so talented and loved by all. Our deepest sympathies to all that loved and knew Matty. You will be greatly missed yet cherished forever in our hearts.
We’ll miss you mate!
xxx

Matty is one of the most beautiful boys i have ever known, we were good friend back in the day, unfortunately things got hard for both of us. Matty touched my heart and i will never forget him, and will miss him... It breaks my heart... but i know he is peaceful now. To Tim Jem and Em, my love to you at this time and always. To the rest of the family... you did not fail... you did more for him than most would... Peace and Love Always.

Matty,

I dont know what to say. Im so angry at what you did, you had so much going for you. A new job, (you were out of that stupid deli) a new home and didnt have to catch public transport to work so there were no excuses for being late! and we were closer together so there was more chances to party down!

I was looking forward to friday night all week and then jonno told me what happened. I was driving at the time and had to pull over. I couldn’t believe it.

Ill always remember you for your positive attitude, you always tried to make bad situations funny. like when it would be you and me at work with hundreds of customers waiting, and you would be trying to get a perfect weight on the scales or talking to a customer about how cordon bleu’s should be cooked. (by the way the BBQ is not the right way to cook it!)

Ill miss you so much matty, life is going to be a lot harder without you around.

with love
J Bannga
Coles Crew

Matty Matty,

I know I haven’t seen ya for a while mate but the moments we had back in the Immanuel days I’ll never forget. We used to have many jams in the good old music centre. You were working your magic on your piece of brass and always willing to help me nail some beats on the drums and cruise through composing and arranging. It was always funny in band, im the one sposed to be making the most noise on the drums, but you would still blow everyone away when u hit those accents, probably the most talented musician Immanuel has ever seen.

You will be greatly missed by everyone champ and we will meet again in the next life.

Mates always,

Murdz!

Matty,
Mate... what can I say?, you where such a great guy, as it was metioned before, you turned that stupid deli... into a place to have abit of fun whislt still working hard. I can remember turning around that corner and saying "YES!, Matty’s on" in my head knowning that the shift I was going to have was going to be fun. At work your customer service, your smile and sence of humor would even make a complete stranger smile, don’t know how u did it mate.
This was a shock to me Matty, because I thought everything was looking better for you. The only thing that can make me feel any better is knowning your pain is over.

cya Matty
love Hopey!,
Coles crew

never forget your cheeky smile matty xox treasure the youth group days.all my love to family and friends.
love you
laura.

Hey Matty,

Well who know where to start...
Even though we haven’t seen each other in ages, our friendship doesn’t change! I remember back to those days in year 9 and 10 when we were the best of mates "Soul mates" as you mentioned one time in one of your lengthy letters/poems back and forth.

You are such a talented guy not just in musical terms. But I do hope you’re giving them a treat up there! go crazy DJ Matty!! Hope your having a great time up there, and i cant wait to join you up there!

Love and sympathy to all the Owen family from myself and the rest of the Willsmore family.

I miss u matty

Love always
Jess
xx

Though i never got to meet you Matty, your story has touched me.
I look foreward to the day we cam finally meet in heaven.
Muzza.
J.C. Represent

mate, i’ll miss ya heaps bro. the biggest comfort for me is to know that jesus has you wrapped in his arms and all your pain is gone. one of my fondest memories is when we sung in a choir together at church and i was standing next to you and you just had the most amazing voice! it was a privelege knowing you and we’ll meet again one day.
love dan

I met Matty only a while ago when he lived next door to my dear friend Blayke. The first time I met him he grabbed my heart with his infectious laugh and his love for life, now as i shed a river of tears and try to accept that ill never get another 3am phone call "just to say hi" I have so many wonderful memories of my Beautiful Matty that will stay with me til we meet again. I love you my special buddy
Love and cuddles Jodie xoxox

My mate Matt
I find it so hard to write the words that describe how I am feeling at this saddened time.
I am sorry to hear that you will no longer be there.
I will always remember the good times we shared together - from Kindy through school and beyond. I thank you and your Family for accepting me into your lives - we shared some great times (you were like a second family to me). I will always remember the fun we had at your Grandparents home, in the pool and at Wallaroo. I will never forget your thoughtfulness and including me and taking me under your wing when I first went to Church.
You were a talented musician who had a great understanding of music, in particular the trumpet. You also had a great sense of people’s feelings.
You will always be in my thoughts.
It is now time you played that trumpet for Arcangel Gabriel whose mission is "To worship God and, with God’s help transform the world". - Blow Matt Blow.

Hey Matt,

I am truly grateful for having known you. You are one of the most beautiful and brightest persons I have ever known. Your friendliness and openess to those around you, your zany humour, kindness and generosity of self are some of the things I will remember when I recall working with you at coles.

Im gutted that I will never again see your beautiful smile and laugh over those times.

Thankyou for being such a wonderful person and friend.
<3 Alice

Emma-lee, your words about being a team are truly touching. When you and Matt are resurrected, it will be together with everyone else who accepts Jesus Christ as a powerful Saviour, & together you’ll be part of the biggest, best, happiest team that ever existed. God always remembers. Always.

*Stop all the Clocks...*

Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone,
Prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone,
Silence the pianos and with muffled drum
Bring out the coffin, let the mourners come.

Let aeroplanes circle moaning overhead
Scribbling on the sky the message He Is Dead,
Put crepe bows round the white necks of the public doves,
Let the traffic policemen wear black cotton gloves.

He was my North, my South, my East and West,
My working week and my Sunday rest,
My noon, my midnight, my talk, my song;
I thought that love would last for ever: I was wrong.

The stars are not wanted now: put out every one;
Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun;
Pour away the ocean and sweep up the wood.
For nothing now can ever come to any good.

~ W. H. Auden

Matty, we miss you.

We are deeply sadend at the loss of Matthew. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Gary, Christine, Jeremy, Timothy, Aunty Nat and all those whose lives were touched by this beautiful and talented person. May peace and hapiness be with you in heaven.

Day 1, Year 7 at Immanuel was the first time I met Matt. From year 7 camp and right through high school Matt was a friend and confidant. Its been a long time since we had seen each other, but you will always leave an impression on me as a sweet, caring bloke, a fabulously talented musician and a great friend.

Shocked and saddened to hear the news, I am sorry that we never really had the chance to catch up over the years. I hope that your spirit continues to shine in heaven as we all know you will continue to shine here on earth.

"The White Chariot"

During your journey on your final flight home.
White wings will carry you and you will be flown.
To the pearly gates of Heaven, where they will usher you in.
To the feet of your Lord, your Saviour, and your friend.
He will hold you in his arms and the angels will sing.
As another one of His children is delivered by white wings.
Author: Julie Johnson.

RIP Matty x

Matty, or Matthew what we called you when we wanted to annoy you.
I remember the first time I called you that you just turned around looked at me and said oh you sound just like my mum
You understood what we had to deal with in the deli
Got a lot of good memories of you
You were patient when we were running late and stopping you from going home
Helped me decide what I should eat on my breaks
I remember standing in the isle one night deciding on what chocolate to get and you were telling me how good the lindt chocolate factory was and that it was so much better than Charlie and the chocolate factory and that i had to go
Ill Miss coming in to work and looking for you face
or having a chat about dunkeroos haha
calling you over for customer inquires, that lady last week with the chicken, how can you return something you have already eaten!? haha
you could make a bad situation somehow feel good
I cant help wondering if there was something I could I have done or said
I hope you knew that if you ever needed to talk to me I was there
I know you feel you made the right decision but you were loved by so many people
there was defiantly something about you Matt
you were a beautiful person we wont be forgetting you

The world has lost a part of it’s charm
But he has flown back to God’s arms.
There will be no replacement
No man shall compare
How could we have helped you?
we would have tried, I promise
instead of this revelation
that you were gone from us.
We will celebrate your life
with praise to our God
Your legacy shall be,
to all that spent a second or more
with you
to praise the Lord in all we do.
Thankyou for your courage
thankyou for your time
you are gone to soon
Goodbye my love
My love to all that knew you
my heart will break everyday
till I see you again.
GOODBYE

Matty my name is Jo and you worked with my son at Foodland. I remember talking to you one day asking if my son could have a night off and you were so nice about it. You were so well mannered and polite and I thought to myself what a nice youg man. You had the most beautiful smile. My deepest sympathy goes out to Matty’s family and friends, you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Today I was
priviledged to be part of the celebration of life to our very much loved and adored Matty, to all the young people that were there or maybe just reading this, remember this do not let you hearts be troubled, Matty is in a better place and yes take time to grieve, but make sure you think of all the good times we had with Matty, and if at anytime you find yourself in a hard place do not be embarressed or ashamed please, please be sure to share it with someone dont try to battle on your own there is a lot of people out there in this world that can help you all you have to do is ask.

See ya Matty - you keep that trumpet blowing

from Mrs J



Chris J

"Don’t it always seem to go that you don’t know
what you’ve got till it’s gone..."

Hi Matt,
From Sunday Fun Day to the front of the church it was always a pleasure to have you nearby. You helped make singing a joy and you impros just lifted everyone to a new level each time you played. You and Pete where a joy to worship with and it won’t be the same without you. You blessed us in so many ways. Maybe Jesus is coming soon and you’re to be part of that great trumpet sound of God when he does (as long as you make some rehearsals?).

To the whole Owen family our love warmth & prayers go out to you.
It’s a pleasure to know you all.

God Bless,
Much love
Dave Carolyn & Bryson

WHY? WHY? WHY?

600 people wept yesterday, such a large network of a loving family and friends.

600 and more still weeping today.

Many knowing your struggle. Many offering their support.

This 1 can not accept WHY?

I didn’t know Matthew, but my thoughts and prayers are with Tim, Garry and all Matthew’s family, friends and loved ones.

Psalm 119:76
May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant.

Matty was one of my highschool sweethearts. He always knew how to make me smile when I was feeling down. Together we shared poetry, music and laughter and I will never forget him. I love you matie xxx

hey matty,

what can i say! i may not have shown it enough to you but i thought you were a beautiful person and still are. you always made us laugh in the deli, even though you were late alot you worked hard and enjoyed yourself at the same time. if one of us were a bit down or upset you would try your hardest to make us have a laugh and smile.
ill also remember you singing and making jokes and especially the different voices you would talk in. the customers just loved you matty you were always so nice to them even if they werent nice back.
i have to admit when i first saw you at coles i thought wow whos that good lookin guy!
ill keep you posted as to when i have my bubs (8 weeks to go), ill let you know what it is!
i often think now that maybe i could have done more to help you, i guess i will always wonder if there was anything i could have done. the only thing i hope for know is that you are in a better place and that you are happy, if only you could see how many people loved you matty.

keep smiling that beautiful smile

love always
debbie and ash
xxxx

600 people matty. 600 and I know there are plenty more who couldnt make it. I have shed so many tears the last week and a half. Everytime I hear Michael Jackson I will think of your warm smile. I am hoping that when I am able to sleep again you will visit me in my dreams so I can say goodbye. I miss you
love Kat

ps I hope you enjoyed our tribute to you. i imagined you sitting with us watching us scoff our faces with ur invention

Matty,
To see so many people you touched this week its amazing. Matty you are an exceptional person who’s so true to yourself. you are certainly one to always excell, to help out, support and stand strong.
you have always been an unreal mate to me, ever since my bellevue days you began helping me see the light when i also only saw the dark, helping me to see reason and you believed in me. then over the years we continue to stand by eachother, calling and catching up when we’re feeling overwhelmed, great, alone, in need of a d&m, talk out the deeper issues, looking to party or jus chilling. Always drop what we’re doing, i remember our 2 am cafe villis sessions and late night convos. and creative spins on situations that somehow made them okay. that was perspective that not many could percieve, it’s awesome. i have seen just a glimpse of your pain over the last 8 years. it was dark, very dark. yet you still manage to save so many others. i truly value that.
I sit here now reflecting on life, directions and purpose. One of the things i am carrying from this is how much i believe you had going for you, your intelligent and cunning, funny and smooth with the birds, your charisma and perception on life. Your a stallion, boy.
i think when we look at ourselves and think we fall short, when all the compliments or conversations cant change the way we are thinking of ourselves. perhaps we need to reflect and look at the bigger picture. we cannot always trust our own perception of ourselves.
Matty boy we are mates, unreal mates.
i love ya style bro.
Thanks

Its here i say shouts go out to tha Owen Krew. Praying from tha North side. im sorry its come to this.
Clancy

Mattie was the most precious man in my life. After God, came Mattie…It was great to have had the privilege of knowing him for the past year - this year has been the most precious of my life. It was through Mattie I learnt to love; He brought a real joy into my life. When I was with him, I was challenged to grow in my faith each time we got together and chatted.

I will always remember the night in early February when we sat at Brighton beach together. He came to be there for me, he stood by me as I vented. Later that evening we were watching the sunset and he told me the sun wasn’t setting; the earth was just rotating - my first geography lesson that made sense! Later on as we got sillier, he started digging a hole in the sand...trivial maybe,but he creating nothing and was proud of it.

There are so many memories, and I can not be more grateful for getting to know him in the past year.

He had a dream; he wanted to make a difference in this world, he just didn’t know how to make the first step. He talked about developing a place where people could come and get through addition to prescription drugs. A legacy has been left and a challenge with it. I love him and I know I always will but now I am stuck at the same crossroads…He wanted to make a difference; he had a real heart for the suffering and lost. He had a heart of evangelism. I may never understand why he left us behind but I will never forget him…I once told him that I love him unconditionally that nothing will ever change that love.

On new years God gave me a verse for him, which made sense at the time but now I see it in a whole new light:

The wicked lie in wait for the righteous, seeking their very lives; but the Lord will not leave them in their power or let them be condemned when brought to trial�
PSALM 37:32-33

I now know that he will be with our Father in heaven!

Love ya bro ... always

Mate, I am devo. From school I knew you were special and I am greatful that I was lucky enough to be able to play trumpet right next to you, make Cd’s and generally have a great time with you. This place will miss you!

God Bless!

Matty,

You have touched the lives of everybody you meet, Such an infectious smile and personality to match. You have been blessed with extreme talent (and yes i am referring to "matty’s cook up’s") which will never be forgotten. A special soul and a special guy, we will miss you xo

My deepest sympathies go out the all the owen family, you are all extremley special and i know will find strength with each other xo

I only met Matt briefly through work but he was such a lovely person to deal with and did indeed have a smile you could never forget.

I hope he is now at peace!

My thoughts are with his family at such a sad time.

Matty, Warm memories of tutoring you Maths a decade ago, and much appreciation for your most consistent friendly hello at the Coles deli counter even if I wasn’t really near it! What a privilege it was to attend the funeral, and shed many tears through the wonderful service that really celebrated your life. You have truly impacted many people for Christ during your life and since. Cheers, Colin.

Matty,
Although you probably don’t really remember me much I enjoyed hanging out with you at the Westgarths on various occasions. Something that i was always way to scared to admit was that I had a bit of a crush on you! I could see the way you served our awesome God through your music that you had a very long and deep relationship with our creator. I look forward to the day i can get to know you better, on the day that I make it to the kingdom. Until then, I will forever cherish the memories i have of you playing trumpet, and drums at church.
With love, Leece.

Matt,
I havent seen you in so many years, but will always have such fun memories of sunday school and watchin you play in the band at church with your dad and brother.
To your family, my deepest sympathies with you during this time.
Becc.

Hey Mr,

What a shame!!! A life so precious and loyal, now so futile. Kiddo, you were one of a kind, a bright keen personality that would sweep a room, reinvigorating the saddest of souls. You had an amazing ability to make everyone smile, even sometimes if you weren’t.

Your eclectic mind always offering wisdom and hope which had no limitations other than your own. Now you are dancing on the other side of the rainbow, we are unequivocally going to miss you, but only for now.

I hope it is as nice there as what you always told me it was.

Anyway kiddo

Lashes & Remixes

David SC

Hey Matty
I just got back from interstate and I have heard. Words lack any ability to express the essence of your being. The part of me that is form weeps in the dissolution of form. I know that the essence of your awareness is timeless, immortal and will be forever.
When I first met you I felt in presence a familiarly, like I had known you for years. We shared many conversations of deep nature, from parties to meeting you on the street.
You showed me that no one alone suffers.
In the eternal Now I am sure we will again share presence as the mystic cord of memory sways and again touch by the higher beings of our nature.
With deepest empathy to all touched by Matty
A friend Adam

Matty

I will always remember days in stage band bro - you always wanted to be up the back and play some crasy percussion - you were just to good at the Trumpet but you were always the first to laugh at our shenanigans.
It hurts to hear that you are gone but I have peace knowing your with our Lord and I can’t wait to catch up in heaven!
My thoughts and prayers are with the Owen family - may you find strength and peace.

Adrian

i miss you

A million words could not bring you back, i know because ive tried. Neither could a million tears, i know because ive cried.

Theres never a right time to say goodbye.

This song came out on tuesday the 20th of feb. Matthew died that wednesday.
its called Shine On, by jet.

Please don’t cry
You know I’m leaving here tonight
Before I go I want you to know
that there will always be a light

And if the moon had to runaway
And all the stars didn’t wanna play
Don’t waste the sun on a rainy day
The wind will soon blow it all away, yeh

So many times I planned
To be much more than who I am
And if I let you down
I will follow you ’round until you understand

That if the moon had to runaway
And all the stars didn’t wanna play
Don’t waste the sun on a rainy day
The wind will soon blow it all away, yeh, oh yeh

When the days all feel the same
Don’t feel the cold or wind or rain
Everything will be okay
We will meet again one day
And I will shine on, for everyone

So please don’t cry
Although I leave you here this night
Where I go how far I don’t know
But I will always be your light

That if the moon had to runaway
And all the stars didn’t wanna play
Don’t waste the sun on a rainy day
The wind will soon blow it all away, yeh, oh yeh

When the days all seem the same
Don’t feel the cold or wind or rain
Everything will be okay
We will meet again one day
I will shine on, for everyone
Shine on, for everyone
When the stars all look the same
Don’t feel the cold or wind or rain
Everything will be okay
We will meet again one day
I will shine on, for everyone
Shine on, for everyone

Matt,

I’m finding this difficult to write, as i didn’t know Matt the way many people did.

My heart and prayers go out to the Owen family in this difficult time of losing a Son. I just want you to know, that i know Matt had a great impact on and in peoples lives.

P.s Thanks for lending me you blazer for the school photos!

Psalm 30 (NLT))

I will exalt you, Lord, for you rescued me.
You refused to let my enemies triumph over me.
O Lord my God, I cried to you for help,
and you restored my health.

You brought me up from the grave, O Lord.
You kept me from falling into the pit of death.
Sing to the Lord, all you godly ones!
Praise his holy name.
For his anger lasts only a moment,
but his favor lasts a lifetime!
Weeping may last through the night,
but joy comes with the morning.

When I was prosperous, I said,
“Nothing can stop me now!�
Your favor, O Lord, made me as secure as a mountain.
Then you turned away from me, and I was shattered.

I cried out to you, O Lord.
I begged the Lord for mercy, saying,
“What will you gain if I die,
if I sink into the grave?
Can my dust praise you?
Can it tell of your faithfulness?
Hear me, Lord, and have mercy on me.
Help me, O Lord.�

You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing.
You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy,
that I might sing praises to you and not be silent.
O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever!


Weeping may last through the night, but JOY COMES with the morning!

All you who are in deep sadness and are weary come to Jesus and he will take your worries, your pain, your burden. For his yoke is easy and his burden is light. He is life and will restore your joy. For the joy of the Lord shall be your strength. Although it may not seem like joy will come, it will come! Trust in the Father.

Romans 5:3-5
Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

You will see Matty again one day. He is in his own mansion where he is dwelling in the house of the Lord! Hellejuia! We Praise Jesus for Matt’s life!
We will one day be with our Lord Jesus Christ and also those who have been called home to be with our heavenly father Including Matty. It is the best promise ever!

He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever. Revelation 21:4

My prayers are with the Owen family. May God Bless you in this time.

Every step I take, every move I make
Every single day, every time I pray
I’ll be missing you
Thinkin of the day, when you went away
What a life to take, what a bond to break
I’ll be missing you

It’s kinda hard with you not around
Know you in heaven smilin down
Watchin us while we pray for you
Every day we pray for you
Til the day we meet again
In my heart is where I’ll keep you friend
Memories give me the strength I need to proceed
Strength I need to believe
My thoughts Big I just can’t define
Wish I could turn back the hands of time

Give anything to hear half your breath
I know you still living you’re life, after death.

Matty,
we are still missing you heaps... always will...
i have to work tonight, it still bring back memories of all the time we spent their talking and mucking around, i think about it everytime i walk through the doors, everytime i go and buy chocolate, everytime i go to the salad bar. although i only knew you for a few months you left an imprint in my life and i think everyone else who works at foodland to.
Thinking bout u Matt. We’ll always keep you in our hearts.
xoxo

Matty,
I sat ready to write something beautiful to lift other up as you always did but all I can write is this message ment only for you.
I LOVE YOU

Hey Matt
this seems to be one last way to speak to you.
Just want to say, love you loads, miss you heaps and I’m sure you’re rocking it good with the angels.
You are beautiful
All our love
P.C and C.A.R

Matty man what can i say, you gave me hope when there was none, you enabled me to see the possitive side of life and taught me to laugh at everything that hurt me.

you really strengthened me mate and i cant believe one of my best friends of 7-8 years has gone. to this day thinking about it makes me cry. you were the kindest, most funny person andony could know, always ready with a smile for what ever had to be done.

I will always remember you Matty, you are truely one of a kind.

you’ve always got a place in my heart.

Your mate always,
Adam Stone

Christine, Jeremy, Timothy and family and friends,

I’m so sorry for your loss, I only remember Matt as the little boy in the photo below. I can see you all in him.

Thinking of you all.

One month today Matty. Four long weeks, 28 days of missing you. We still can’t believe we will never feel your physical being with us. We do feel your spirit surround us and we know you are happy. It still hurts Matty. Not a day goes by that we dont feel the emptyness of your departure. Only time will help us to accept your decision, but we miss you so, so,so much.

My thoughts and prayers go out to Matthew’s family at this time. I went to Immanuel Primary and College with him and remember he was most happy when he was around music, whether it be in music class, band practise or when we would go in at lunch time to play instruments. He was a truly wonderful person and will be sadly missed.

Matty was an angel sent from heaven. He’s purpose in earth was to teach us how to love.
One of the hardest things for me to deal with was that I never got to repay him for everything he taught me.
I know there are so many in my posistion and the best thing to do is ’pay in forward’ that what Matty would want. Spread the love people. Keep Matty light shining.

I have trouble accepting the fact that you’re gone, so I wont...
It’ll be like we went for awhile without seeing each other.
But I can see why God would want you closer to him,
cause you truly were an angel on Earth.
God saw you were getting tired, and a cure was not meant to be
So he put his arms around you, and whispered come with me
With tearful eyes we watched you, as we saw you pass away
Although we love you deeply, we could not make you stay
Your golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest
God broke our hearts to prove to us... He only takes the best.

To my dear friend Matty,

How can i even begin to say how much i’ll miss you. We were friends during those crucial years of high school, and without your friendship i probably wouldn’t have made it. You taught me things about life, strength and music. Your words of wisdom helped save me when i needed saving, i am eternally sorry that i wasn’t there to give you the words you may have needed to get through your pain.
How can i accept you’re gone? That’s too much to ask Matty, i still want to hear your quirky comments, deep insight into life, and that beautiful sound you produced with the trumpet... Your abilty as a musician was astounding, your ability to be a good friend will never be forgotten.


A Poem For Matty

Why let it all just fade away? Why end your song, when you had so much more to play. You helped me so much, more that i can say. Your kind words of wisdom, eased my pain away. It was my turn to help you, we understood each others pain. But this is something i now can never repay.

You’ll never know, just how much you’ll be missed, or the simple pleasures you brought to each day. I’m lost for words, consumed by grief how do I cope with my pain? All I can say is thankyou Matty, for the friendship I held close to my heart. I’m so sorry we didn’t get the chance to speak before you decided to part.

As i write this the tears fall uncontrolably down my cheeks, my saddness too much to bear. I can’t explain how much this hurts, i just wish you were here. Each time i pick up my trumpet, the notes i’ll play for you. Keeping you alive through my melodies means we’ll never have to say goodbye.


Thankyou a thousand times over, i will NEVER forget you, i will ALWAYS carry you around in my heart, and i will ALWAYS love you! xo

It’s been awhile now since u left us dude, still it gets no easier.
I’m keeping the legend of Bj alive, i have one everyweek for you mate.
i remember when u first taught me the wonder of Bj when i was just 15.
I owe you so much Matty, you saved me from myself so much. If it wasnt for you i wouldnt be here today, i am enternally gratefull man.

Wish i coulda seen you one last time to say goodbye. I keep your pic next to where i sleep everynight just so i can say hi when i wake up and tell you bout my day when i go to bed. its hard to loose a best friend. you were amazing Matt.

I cant imagine wat your family is feeling but know this, we all have lost the greatest friend we can ever find.

You are a LEGEND!!!!!!!!!! and always will be.

Cheers to you and your awesomeness *hold up a carton of Bj*

To Matty!

I live in Canada and Matty’s parents lived in Windsor. His mother, Chrissy worked with me at a financial institution. I never met Matty but knew a lot about him, including pictures sent to me by his Mom & Dad. All the boys were absolutely beautiful and it saddens my heart when they choose to leave us. My sincere condolences to Chrissy, Garry, Tim and Mel. May God heal the sorrow in your hearts, console you and know that Matty is in a beautiful place waiting for all of you. God Bless you all.

Matty i didn’t know you that well but what i did know i miss.
You really were an amazing person.
You left a mark on many people that you didn’t even know cared for you.
My soul grieves for you and your family.
You will be forever missed and loved

p.s i remember when you would light the whole room up with your smile, i hope to see that again one day.

God works in amazing ways. Yesterday I ran across musictotheworld website while searching for christain music. More specifically I was looking to submit a song of mine, called "Going Home" I conversed with Tim through a couple of emails and he told me about the loss of his brother. To the Owen family, I offer you my heartfelt prayers and condolences. As believers in Christ, we are assured of eternal life and you will see Matt again in all the glory of heaven. Know that he is with Jesus and he is home now. We dont know why some people are taken early in life and still others live many years here on earth. One thing you can be sure of, God wanted Matt in heaven and although he knew it was going to be a painful loss for his family and friends, his inifinite wisdom will be revealed when you finally go home. I would like to share the words to "Going Home" here with you and hopefully you can listen to the song on the webiste.

The years they have a way, quickly running by
And we watch them race along, we try to slow them down
No matter how we wish, time marches on and on
But it’s ok and we know this time will bring us home

We will be going home, and we never have to leave
We will be going home, to see the ones that we love
Going home to Jesus, to be with our Lord
Going home to Jesus, its the journey we are on

Hear the children as they laugh, they are the work of God
And we watch them growing up, we try to slow them down
No matter how we wish, time marches on and on
But its ok and we know this time will bring us home

We will be going home, and we never have to leave
We will be going home, to see the ones that we love
Going home to Jesus, to be with our Lord
Going home to Jesus, its the journey we are on

Love the people in your life, they try the best they can
Look past your differences, God sees us all the same
Brothers and sisters too, time marches on and on
But its ok and we know this time will bring us home

We will be going home, and we never have to leave
We will be going home, to see the ones that we love
Going home to Jesus, to be with our Lord
Going home to Jesus, its the journey we are on

Going Home by Bob Hughes
www.bobhughesmusic.com

Matt,
I never met you in this lifetime, but by reading the thoughts here on the message board, I know that you touched many many lives with love, friendship, and compassion. It goes without saying, but tell Jesus we all say hello and look forward to the day we go home. I’ll meet you in heaven Matt. Im looking forward to hearing you play the trumpet.

Sincerely,
Bob Hughes

Matty, It’s been over 7 weeks and still, the pain is so deep. The fall out from your death, these messages, are just amazing. How can someone who was loved so much by so many feel the need to depart from this life. I know you loved God but we loved you more. The impact you had on so many lives still baffles me. Why didn’t you practice what you preached, but did you not choose life. It is never ever going to be the same without you and that’s not OK I wish you knew then what so many are saying now then perhaps we would still feel your hugs.

Missing you so, so , so, much and then some. xoxoxoxo

If tears could build a stairway, i would walk right up to heaven and bring you home.

i miss you way to much

i miss you way to much

Why?

Mate I am missing you today so so much!

Matthew Owen was an inspirational musician that taught me a lot more then just the musical notes on the page. In fact, music came from his heart - the notes on the manuscript weren’t necessary. He will be sadly missed by all of his friends and family. God Bless. xx Be strong knowing the Lord loves all of us!

Matty,

It had been a while since I’d had one of those chance meetings with you - at Coles, in town, down the street - wherever! You always smiled and greeted me warmly and remembered which city I was living at the time and asked as to how I was and what was going on in my life.

I was shocked and saddened when I stumbled across the news on the MTW website... My thoughts and prayers are with the Owen family and indeed everyone at Blackwood Hills.

You will be sadly missed.

I love you so much Matty
Alway have
Always Will

Tomorrow is Anzac Day and I rememebr going up to Blackwood last year to watch Matty play the last post on his trumpet! standing proud infornt of so many people doing what he loved to do. I rememebr living next to him in torrens park and having to listen to him practise the last post, sometimes at odd hours of the night.. bless him.

Lest We Forget......

This song pretty much sums it up

Sorry I never told you
All I wanted to say
And now it’s too late to hold you
’Cause you’ve flown away
So far away
Never had I imagined
Living without your smile
Feeling and knowing you hear me
It keeps me alive
And I know you’re shining down on me from heaven
Like so many friends we’ve lost along the way
And I know eventually we’ll be together
One sweet day
Evetually I’ll see you in heaven...
Darling, I never showed you
Assumed you’d always be there
I took your presence for granted
But I always cared
And I miss the love we shared
And I know you’re shining down on me from heaven
Like so many friends we’ve lost along the way
And I know eventually we’ll be together
One sweet day
Eventually I’ll see you in heaven
Although the sun will never shine the same
I’ll always look to a brighter day
Lord I know when I lay me down to sleep
You will always listen as I pray
And I know you’re shining down on me from heaven
Like so many friends we’ve lost along the way
And I know eventually we’ll be together
One sweet day
And I know you’re shining down on me from heaven
Like so many friends we’ve lost along the way
And I know eventually we’ll be together
One sweet day
Sorry I never told you
All I wanted to say

I still miss you, it still hurts. With time it’s supposed to get easier...i’m still waiting. What i’d give for a little more time.. xxoo

No one said it was going to be easy, but no one said it would be this hard.

Matt i miss you like never before.
I still talk to you every night. I know you’re listening.

Here is one of my favourite songs, I think of you when i hear it.

My tears run down like razorblades
And no, I’m not the one to blame
It’s you ’ or is it me?
And all the words we never say
Come out and now we’re all ashamed
And there’s no sense in playing games
When you’ve done all you can do

But now it’s over, it’s over, why is it over?
We had the chance to make it
Now it’s over, it’s over, it can’t be over
I wish that I could take it back
But it’s over

I lose myself in all these fights
I lose my sense of wrong and right
I cry, I cry
It’s shaking from the pain that’s in my head
I just wanna crawl into my bed
And throw away the life I led
But I won’t let it die, but I won’t let it die

But now it’s over, it’s over, why is it over?
We had the chance to make it
Now it’s over, it’s over, it can’t be over
I wish that I could take it back

I’m falling apart, I’m falling apart
Don’t say this won’t last forever
You’re breaking my heart, you’re breaking my heart
Don’t tell me that we will never be together
We could be, over and over
We could be, forever

I’m falling apart, I’m falling apart
Don’t say this won’t last forever
You’re breaking my heart, you’re breaking my heart
Don’t tell me that we will never be together
We could be, over and over
We could be, forever

It’s not over, it’s not over, it’s never over
Unless you let it take you
It’s not over, it’s not over, it’s not over
Unless you let it break you
It’s not over


You are always safe in my heart.

Love forever and always,Annabel.

P.S. i had to work in the deli the other night!! i wish you had been there to keep me company :(

P.P.S

You’re beautiful

I’m beginning to think that this will never get easier and the pain will always burn inside of me, but eventually i guess i’ll just learn to cope. I still miss you, it still hurts, always will... I just hope you know what you meant to me.. xo

Mattie,

Just want to share a poem I wrote for you

When I look upon this earth and look up at the night sky
I saw the moon, brightly shining through the clouds
It cried out ’remember me’
Yet I never knew why...until tonight

You were my moon
You always reflected the Son
Your joy, the smile
The light that shone through your eyes
But now...
The moon is gone
The nights get colder, longer
Each night darker than the last
I look out into the darkness
The moon is gone, nothing lights the night sky
No silluettes, Nothing
Just an eerie quiet world of nothingness
The world has gone still
quiet and cold
Thick darkness covers the earth
Yet, no one seems to notice
Life continues on
Oblivious to what has taken place
The night,the last night of your life.

You are my moon Mattie, Thankyou for the privellege of loving you...Thankyou for always bringing out the best in me. Even in the hard times you strengthened me and taught me so much. I will be forever grateful that God let our paths cross, even for the short time we shared together - I will love you forever my friend!

Matty -Tomorrow, we will be going through the things you left behind from your 22 years with us. I know, as we pick up and "deal with" all of the little things - the things that I know brought a smile to your face, your books, your music ... so many things ... that tears will fall. Tomorrow - tomorrow will be another step in your passing. I pray amongst the sadness of tomorrow, we will have time to laugh ... and to remember. Love, Dad XXXX

I saw the most beautiful rainbow this morning and I called out your name. I said "Morning Matty" and it felt so good. I still miss you so much but I am OK now. I’ve let you go and accept that you are at peace. It has taken a long time but I know I will be OK. You haven’t left, I feel you everywhere. There is no way a magical spirit like yours, is ever far away. I know you are watching over all of us helping us to go on.

Thanks Matt, I continue to talk to you as you walk with me everyday.

Hugs, hugs and then some xoxoxoxox

kisty loves mjl

Today i cried for you again. These moments are not so rare. It’s been about 4months now, and still i can’t comprehend your absence. I find it extremely difficult to talk about you, someone mentions your name and i fall to pieces on the inside (because i don’t want them to see). The pain is so personal that i can’t really talk about it to anyone. It kills me that you’ll never really know what you meant to me, what your friendship meant. I miss you Matty, i think about you everyday...xo

You were always beautiful, and always will be.
Every year when we ran into each other, you would always stop to catch up, no matter how busy you were. Thank you.
I miss you, and think of you when I play.
See you in a few decades buddy.

I would give anything to have one last chat with u and give u one last big hug. I miss u more than anything. The hardest thing is that I never told u that I loved u. I wish i could have healed ur pain, I tried so hard. I miss u so much Matty u were the best. Ur with me forever

I Love you Matty. Missing You.

I don’t know any of you folks at all, but I have heard the story of this tragedy and offer my prayers for the healing of the community of people who still love Matthew.

Thinking about you all the time Matty.

Love You mate.

Well it is just over 5 months now and it hasn’t gotten any easier...i thought it would have by now! still love you and think of you each day!

xoxoxoxo

It has been so long and yet not long enough to take away the sorrow in my heart.

Sitting here by the comp at the moment doing my Uni essay and just happened to be thinking of you mate.
Hope your ok where ever you are. It would be great if you could drop a line sometime... somehow.
looking at your pics on this site always brings a tear to my eye. I can still remember your voice as clear as rain and your laugh when ur having a drink with the boys.
I wish you could of met my better half, you two would of got along great. Ive told her alot of stories about you and we all got up to. how we always had fun and made a laugh out of everything.

Look anyway, take care of your self mate.
hope to see you soon one day.

always your mate,
Stoney

AKA
the Matty and Stoney show.

Give me a sign Matt. I need to know you are with us. Nearly six months and OMG it is still so very, very painful. A thought of you can make me smile BUT it can also make me cry.

xoxoxoxo

"You realise that life goes fast, it’s hard to make the good things last. You realise the sun doesn’t go down, it’s just an illusion caused by the world spinning round..." -The Flaming Lips


It’s still hard, it always will be. I still often cry about you, i doubt that will change either...but life is short and i have remember the good times....you’re with me everyday xoxox

All of you, Garry, Chrissie, Tim, Jeremy and of course all the Owen family are still very much in my prayers.

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Love you loads

Hey Mattie

I can’t believe six months have gone by, yet still a day won’t go by without me missing you - my heart breaks a little more each day...I didn’t realise how much you meant to me, i thought it would start geting easier by now

Love you always and forever

Matty,

I miss you, with time it hasn't gotten easier and in many ways it still seems unreal.. like a bad dream. I just hope you had some idea of what you meant to people, what you meant to me. You gave me hope during a time i barely knew what hope was, your ability to understand...you got inside my head and understood me..your amazing..and i miss you. I think of you every day.

love Penny xoxo :)

Matthew....

We are good friends with your Dad...and after reading all about you, you have been a living angel sent on this earth (even for only a short time) and making the world a better place merely by your presence.

I wish we had known you..you have touched many lives...you have a beautiful family and many wonderful friends.

God bless you Matt.

Love Kylia and Colleen

I have re-enabled comment posting.

Dear Reader ... One year on ...It has almost been a whole year since Matty left us - it hardly seems that long, and for many of us, hardly a day goes by when we don’t think of him.

For me, it may be a phrase or a word someone says, such as "Cheers", with that smile in the voice. Or especially, when I see a young man busking in the Mall playing trumpet. Or the many times, I am reminded of a conversation we had, or something we have done together - perhaps a special song - so many things.

This will always be the case, but I am glad to say for me, the pain of Matthew’s loss is slowly diminishing. It will never vanish, but the happy memories I hold dear, do sooth the hurt, the pain. This is God’s way to help us deal with it.

As we come to the Anniversary of Matty’s passing, let’s consider one thing we can do in this life to honour him, and who he was. What would Matty have us do differently?

I suspect showing love to a stranger, reaching out to those who are struggling, especially with mental illness or drug dependence. To show someone you care enough to say "G’day - How ya doin’?", and be prepared to follow up on the response you get.

And especially, to let them know that there is One who does care for them and love them - and that one is God. But remember - you are the one chosen to dispense that love at this time.

Think about it, as we continue to grieve, and yet celebrate Matthew’s life - one year on.

On ya Matty - Dad XXXX

365 Days. WOW!!! It still feels so raw and painful. Matthew I think about you so much and wish you were still here with us. Nothing will fill the void you have left. Emma-lee still cries for you and reaches out for your guidance. I often look up into the sky and call to you. I know you haven’t completely left us. You walk with us every day.

Hope you are enjoying the music up there as we sure miss hearing you play down here.

Love you lots and lots nephew.

Hey Matty,

Still thinking of you every day bro’. Especially on the bus to and from work. Life’s not the same and not as much fun without you around.

Love you lots,
Your bro, Tim.

One year on the and music’s still not the same.
We still all talk about how much of a Trumpet God Matty was!

We all miss you Mate!
Do you have any idea how hard it is to find another Brass player that is as good as you? We are still down 1 person because we CANT replace your sound!

Thankyou for sharing your time, talent and passion with us! We all love you and miss you!

Everytime we play we think of you.

We’ll all see you one day again! and when we do.. we are going JAM!

Peace,

THE LITCR Crew.

PS:

Were still playing around with your unfinished song!

’Shut the door, keep out the Devil, shut the door keep the Devil in the night’

Matt,

ever since i started going back to church when i started high school you were there, anything to do with youth group or church, you were there. We used to have chats and you often walked me home. Matt, it’s taken a whole year for me to actualy admit that you are no longer walking among us in physical form.. and to accept that you are in your new spiritual form with our Lord and Saviour.

Matt, i hope you know how much you mean to me and our whole community. I know your with us always and that your listening when i talk to you.

It’s a whole year later... a year that has gone quite quick, and your stil impacting peoples lives.
I love you so much Matt, you were and stil are such an amazing uplifting inspirational man.

All my love,

Steph.

One year has passed and so much I wish I could tell you!
Miss you lots Matty!!!!
Your always gonna be brilliant!
xoxox
B

One year has passed by, not one day without my thinking of and praying for all of you.

Beloved Matty - has been with Him one year today, has seen Him face to face and will do for all eternity.

Love you guys with all my heart. Hugs, I would love have been able to hug you all for real---- one day :)

Awesome double rainbow at the moment through the sun and the rain.

Every rainbow I stop to think of you up there.

Love,
Tim

Another awesome rainbow the other day.

Still think about you often!

Love,
Tim :-)

I was thinking about you today.
and I just wanted to let you know I still really miss you.
And it still really hurts.
I love you.

Just to let you know, I still think of you everyday.
I wish you were here so that I could talk to you.
So many times when im sad, I think you would know the answer, but you dont respond. At least not with words.
I hope you’re well.
Much love, Annabel xxxxxxx

found and old cassette tape of Peter Coombe and randomly reminded me of that night after work infront if the lunchroom singing wash your face with orange juice. x

I have blocked any posts containing links, which should slow down the spammers!

Matty, bro - Your life is an inspiration to me everyday.

Your smile touched anyone who was within eyesight.

Your unbelievable passion for the meaning behind the music was deep and well beyond even those closest to you.

Your servant heart and infectious grasp of living in the ’here and now’ has made me a better person for knowing and loving you.

Your love and concern for others often took precedence over the need to love and look after yourself.

Your life here on earth still has an impact on those that loved you, and will so for many years to come.

Personally, while now trying to continue with most things in my life (as I know you would have wanted), I had lost all inspiration to write music again, until tonight - I feel it’s time now.

Still missing you, Love from big bro.

I still think about you everyday.
I miss you now more than ever.
I love you

Saw some awesome rainbows in Apollo Bay on our holiday. Still think about you every day and wish you were still with us. I have to keep reminding myself you’re in a better place and apart from the memories, that’s about all the hope we have to hold on to. This is just one of the rainbows we saw the other week:

IN REMEMBRANCE OF MATTY.XXX


You are all in our prayers here in UK

Much love xxxxxxxxxxxx

Say Happy Birthday to Jesus for me, brother. :-)

Love Tim, Mel and Jake

We should have been singing Happy Birthday to you tomorrow.

What more can I say...

Love you mate.

Happy Birthday Matty, I will have a Bogen Juice for you. Wish you were here but I know you have found peace. xoxoxoxo

Matt.

I can’t believe I didn’t find out until now that we had lost you. I wish we’d kept in touch. You were the greatest formal date anyone could ask for. You were charming, sweet, and the most handsome guy in the world. Not one bit of admiration was wasted on you. All that was wasted was losing touch. You were one of the coolest guys I’ve ever spent time with, and even though we lost our closeness, it still hurts like a bastard that I’ll never get to hear you tell me that you "not too shabby". You were an absolute legend Matt, and you’ll live on in all of our hearts.

Love you heaps and heaps. Non. XXX

Man I still miss you.
I was reading that people are spamming on this tribute page but maybe this is just another way that you are going to make a difference to people. Maybe when they come in to spam they will read some of the tributes from those of us who love you and they will be curious about why you were such a loved awesome guy. Maybe they will will have a seed planting in them.
Seeya in time

17th Dec 2009 - it’s that time of year again...

Happy birthday Matty, Ill be thinking for u today. I still miss you lots and lots luv ya oxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Well Matty... 25 years since you were born! HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEETHEART :)

What a blessing and joy you have been in my life. It’s so hard to accept that you won’t be here to celebrate any more birthdays. I miss you terribly, as do many others who love you so much. I will always be your hunnybunnyette and my heart bone is with you always. Bless you darling till we meet again. Love always, Mum xx oo

hutnyuttamastuta. :)

Say Happy Birthday to Jesus for me, Brother!

Missing You...

REMEMBERING MATTY.

MY PRAYERS AND LOVE WITH ALL THE FAMILY OF MATTY EACH AND EVERY DAY.

XXXXXX

Oh Matty today marks the third anniversary since your passing. I remember you with deep love in my heart that only a mother knows. Not a day goes by without thoughts of you, my baby. My heart grieves that you left us after only 22 wonderful years but I know you are at peace and wrapped in the loving arms of Jesus. I hold onto my faith each day and am comforted by friends and family who uphold me in prayer. Bless you darling and thank you for the many many memories. Love forever and always, Mum, until we meet again in heaven and have the best haggapagga hug.

You’re in our hearts and thoughts always - Especially today marking your 3rd Birthday in Heaven.

Thinking of you today Matty.

It has been almost 4 years since you left us and almost 10 years since the last time we spoke.

Jo and I still haven’t forgotten you and we miss you very much.

Thinking of you every day. Love you Always XXX Dad

Love You Bro. Heading to Horseshoe tomorrow to remember the good times. :-)

Wishing you were still here to celebrate your birthday today.

Hey Matty,

I can’t believe it’s been nearly 4 years.

I’ve been thinking about you alot lately and just wanted to say "hey".

Missing you xx

Love Megs

Still feeling the loss ... still missing my nephew ... still asking Why? xoxoxo

Remembering Matty - love to all the family xx

Anzac Day today, hope you are playing the Last Post up there

Hey Matty,

I Keep having dreams that you’re telling me you’re so happy where you are and watching over all of us. I know in my heart it’s true. You were too good for this world. Still missing you though xxx

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