Matthew Allen Vandenburg

MERCER, Wis. — Matthew Allen Vandenburg, 41, of Mercer, went into the arms of Jesus late on Oct. 2, 2013, at home, following an almost life-long illness of epilepsy.

Very early in the morning of May 4, 1972, God blessed the union of the late Kenneth Allen Vandenburg and his wife, Georgette Sylvia (nee) Voigtlande, with the gift of a son whom they named Matthew Allen. The name Matthew was chosen for its meaning, “Gift of God.” Matthew was brought into God’s kingdom of grace by the washing of Holy Baptism on May 28, 1972. When he was almost 2, he was stricken with a rare form of epilepsy. He fought that battle until Wednesday, Oct. 2, when he went Home.

Matthew and his family went everywhere together and did everything together. He was dearly loved by all whose lives he touched.

Matthew Allen is survived by his mother; his brother, Carl Andrew and wife Lori; and two loving nieces, Olivia Grace and Natalie Isabelle. He is further survived by a very dedicated and loving caregiver, Lori Laurila; aunts, uncle and cousins. He will be dearly missed by everyone he left behind.

Services will be held Tuesday, Oct. 8, at 11 a.m., preceded by visitation beginning at 10 a.m., at Peace Lutheran Church, 10868 Old U.S. 51 N., Arbor Vitae, with the Rev. Jon Cluppert officiating.

Interment will be in the Mercer Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Peace Lutheran Church.

Matthew’s obituary can be viewed online and condolences given to his family at mckevittpatrickfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home Inc., Ironwood, Mich.