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Before I say a few words about my wonderful brother, on behalf of Matt’s family please accept our gratitude for all of the love and support each of you have provided Matt and our entire family. We frequently marvel at the army of supporters following Matt’s progress over the past 14 months and, clearly, Matt’s Army is here today. I am blown away. Thank you.
The far reaches of the “Matt Uday Fan Club” (as I like to call it) is truly remarkable. Many have traveled great distances to be here today and this is a testament to the person Matt was and the impact that he had on those around him. I cannot tell you the number of people who have told me that they are better for having known Matt – I couldn’t agree more.
The best word I can use to describe Matt is passionate. Matt never did anything half heartedly. If he believed in something, he pursued it to the max. Matt truly loved life and he was passionate about so many things……Michigan football, skiing, sailing, music, and dentistry to name a few. But most of all, he was passionate about his family and his friends.
Nothing brought Matt more joy than spending time with the people that he loved. He was as much a protector as he was a prankster – and he was extraordinary in that no matter how busy he was, or how many friends he had, he always took a deep interest in those around him and made people feel special. This is a big reason why Matt is universally loved and respected by all who knew him: family, friends, colleagues, patients, and even acquaintances.
Matt’s wife, Megan, and precious son, Ethan, were the center of his universe. They are Matt’s gifts from God. Join me in continuing to surround them with love and make certain Ethan grows up knowing his amazing father.
Countless people consider Matt a friend. I have never met a person with more connections. Being on campus with Matt at the University of Michigan (a seemingly large university) was really quite something. Often, upon introducing myself to someone new, they would say “Oh, you’re Matt Uday’s little sister.” In fact, many people would just refer to me as “Matt Uday’s little sister” as if it were my name. And you know, I didn’t mind a bit. I am and always have been so proud to be Matt’s sister.
Matt’s energy, honesty, and integrity are qualities to emulate. Matt is an inspiration to all who knew him. When faced with tremendous adversity, he responded with remarkable courage, strength, optimism and most of all grace. I have learned so much from my big brother, but most importantly he has taught me that an unrelenting faith and a positive attitude will sustain us through any valley - “those who stay will be champions."
Matt’s heartwarming smile, fun loving character, and gentle embrace will be missed dearly.
A colleague and friend said to me earlier this week, “Our bodies can only carry us so far.” And we face that reality today. But, I take comfort in knowing that Matt’s spirit continues to surround each of us and will be with us always.
May God hold him, and keep him, and bring him peace. I love you Matt.
The far reaches of the “Matt Uday Fan Club” (as I like to call it) is truly remarkable. Many have traveled great distances to be here today and this is a testament to the person Matt was and the impact that he had on those around him. I cannot tell you the number of people who have told me that they are better for having known Matt – I couldn’t agree more.
The best word I can use to describe Matt is passionate. Matt never did anything half heartedly. If he believed in something, he pursued it to the max. Matt truly loved life and he was passionate about so many things……Michigan football, skiing, sailing, music, and dentistry to name a few. But most of all, he was passionate about his family and his friends.
Nothing brought Matt more joy than spending time with the people that he loved. He was as much a protector as he was a prankster – and he was extraordinary in that no matter how busy he was, or how many friends he had, he always took a deep interest in those around him and made people feel special. This is a big reason why Matt is universally loved and respected by all who knew him: family, friends, colleagues, patients, and even acquaintances.
Matt’s wife, Megan, and precious son, Ethan, were the center of his universe. They are Matt’s gifts from God. Join me in continuing to surround them with love and make certain Ethan grows up knowing his amazing father.
Countless people consider Matt a friend. I have never met a person with more connections. Being on campus with Matt at the University of Michigan (a seemingly large university) was really quite something. Often, upon introducing myself to someone new, they would say “Oh, you’re Matt Uday’s little sister.” In fact, many people would just refer to me as “Matt Uday’s little sister” as if it were my name. And you know, I didn’t mind a bit. I am and always have been so proud to be Matt’s sister.
Matt’s energy, honesty, and integrity are qualities to emulate. Matt is an inspiration to all who knew him. When faced with tremendous adversity, he responded with remarkable courage, strength, optimism and most of all grace. I have learned so much from my big brother, but most importantly he has taught me that an unrelenting faith and a positive attitude will sustain us through any valley - “those who stay will be champions."
Matt’s heartwarming smile, fun loving character, and gentle embrace will be missed dearly.
A colleague and friend said to me earlier this week, “Our bodies can only carry us so far.” And we face that reality today. But, I take comfort in knowing that Matt’s spirit continues to surround each of us and will be with us always.
May God hold him, and keep him, and bring him peace. I love you Matt.
Kristin:
ReplyDeleteYou wrote a very moving tribute to your brother. I have tears in my eyes right now. I miss him. He was really, truly a great man. And you were always a loving sister.
I think of you as great person also. I never thought of you as his little sister--rather his sister.
We just have to trust God.
Dave