Here it is, so long after Matt's life was cut short, and still, he has the amazing ability to make people smile. I met Matt once, at a friends business, and he was one of the most amazing young men I've ever had the honor to meet. He had a passion that most never know, a quick wit, and an even quicker smile. He'll always be remembered because we never forget when we see an angel, and that was truly what he was. We all ask why, and I think that maybe, his job here was done, and God had bigger goals in mind for Matt. He was taken young because he had done so much.. it is a constant reminder to those of us who are older that we should never underestimate "kids", we should never expect tomorrow, and we should always, always, do everything we do.. with all of our heart.
Thank you Matt for being such a huge inspiration to so many generations of people..
Teresa, Jannette Kelly sent me this link. My heart goes out to you and your family. What a very handsome young man. Please tell your Mom and Terry I said hello. He is in a much better place and you will no doubt see him again. Take care, Tod Laird
Dearest Matt..
I don't know how to thank you. You have been such a blessing to my life and I hope one day when I see you up there.. I can tell you how much you touched my life. I never really knew you, but I went to school with you. I always remembered you because of your smile. You had a smile someone would never forget.
When you passed away it hurt me to know someone so humble and giving someone so full of this powerful energy who was trying to make a difference in our community could be shot over something so stupid. I wish i could turn back the hands of time and change you driving out there that night. But I dont have control of that. All I know is I have control over me today and that is why I am doing all I can to keep your dream alive. To keep what you had going. Your dream is what this community needs and in order for our community to be strengthened we need people like you to lead us. I dedicate myself from this day out in bringing Fairfield to be the best city in Solano County and when we (the Matt Garcia Foundation) do so... your going to be the first person we all dedicate and remember our work for.
I have grown to love all of the "dream team" and your family so much. I wish I could of crossed paths with you more before it was too late. I still cant forget about 2 months before you passed away I was leaving my old work and you were in the parking lot next door putting air in your tires. All I thought of as I got into my car was, "you should go say hi to him." and then I thought, "no, he probably wont remember your face from high school its been a while and he didn't even really know you." and then i thought, "you never know when the last time you will see someone will be." it still gives me chills today because I didn't go say hi. And that WAS the last time I saw you. :( I still regret it to this day. We all miss you Matt. Even those of us who barley even knew you. Those of us who just knew what you were about. Those of us who remembered you with a huge smile. Those of us who remember you at your senior night of prom when you were elected prom king saying, "Im running for city councilman next year everyone here better vote for me" with a fat smile on your face. We miss you as well as your family and your friends.
Thanks Matt for touching my life and making me "step up to the plate" to do the right thing.Rest in peace sweetheart I hope your looking down on us with all your smiles seeing the changes we are making and cheering us on for the ones soon to come.
matt i just want to put a comment on here that just because its been 7 months your not missed any less or its still not hard for us to have you gone i miss you and respect you so much for everything you were doing for not only the community but our kids future i now look at fairfield at the way it can and should be we are all keeping the dream alive and i have avoided using violence in the rememberence of you you will always live on in my heart and i will always remember you as being my cousin even though my mom and your dad wanted us to be g/f and b/f LOL you were and always will be one of my heroes and i know you are still lookin out for all of us you really were FAIRFIELDS FINEST
Although we saw you a few times to plan this event in October for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we just want it remembered and known that we miss you and we know that although you won't be there in body but you will be there in spirit. We keep your picture in our office to remind us to keep our dreams alive too. We love you still, Claudia and Rena'.
Well it's been over a month now that we first heard the tragic news and it's still just so hard to belive that you are gone. I see your picture with that big smile and think this can't be real. It feels like just yesterday that Jorge and I ran into you in Lake Tahoe. It was your 21st birthday and I just remember how happy you were. I am so thankful to Erika for bringing you into our lives and giving us a chance to know you. You had a heart of gold. You will be missed greatly by us, but know that you and your dreams will live on with us forever. RIP Matty...
I HAVE KNOWN MATTHEW SINCE HE WAS RUNNING AROUND IN DIAPERS. HE WAS ALWAYS SMILING. HE GREW UP TO BE A FINE YOUNG MAN! AN INSPIRATION TO ALL, YOUNG AND OLD. I AM SICK THAT HIS LIFE WAS SENSLESSLY TAKEN. BUT I BELIEVE IN MY HEART THAT GOD HAS A GREATER MISSION FOR HIM. HE HAS LEFT A GREAT IMPRESSION ON THIS CITY AND SOLANO COUNTY AND I PRAY THAT WE AS A COMMUNITY CAN CONTINUE TO CARRY OUT HIS VISION FOR OUR YOUTH OF THIS GENERATION AND THE ONES TO COME? HE IS IN A BETTER PLACE NOW. WE WILL MISS HIM ALWAYS!
MY HEART GOES OUT TO THE FAMILY, AND MY PRAYERS WILL BE WITH THEM FOREVER! WE LOVE YOU ALL VERY MUCH.
Matt its not real at all, U should still be here. I thonk mostly of how big of a heart you had. You were ready to try to fix the world!!! that was awsome, you were awsome! One of a kind you are for sure Matt, ONE OF A KIND!!!! Untill we meet again, my thoughts n prayers remain with your family!!! R.I.P. Matt!!!
Matty G, Matty G........ What are we going to do without u?? This is like the 50 millionth comment on here.... it just shows how much u were loved. U were living at ur grandma's for a little bit.. and I remember being kind of sad when I had to move to Sac cuz u weren't my neighbor no more =( Every now & then I'd drop in Fairfield to say whats up to the folks. The very last time I came down, I got the chance to see u.... I am soo happy for that, but I have a loss of words right now because I know that when I come down to visit.... you won't be there with your cheezy smile u always have. Rest in peace Matthew! Justice will be served for the evil that has harmed you. My prayers go out to the Garcia family.
I can't express the sorrow that I felt when we lost Matt, he was a very good friend of mines. We shared lots of things together when he worked at First Bank, he was an angel, and my special friend.
Matt called me at my house a few months ago as he was going to help me with my business. I am so shocked that I am really speechless. However I will continue to keep the Garcia Family in my prayers. He might be gone but his spirits will always be felt in Fairfield.
It has been about 3 weeks now Matt, and I am still finding it hard to know that I will never get to see you again. I wont see you around town, I wont see you on TV, I will never get to see your smile. I am having a really hard time letting go.
I am so proud of you! Thank you for getting us all pointed in the right direction! I am just thankful that it was you who got everyones attention. The one person who has marked everyones memory with your vision! THANK YOU!
I will never forget you. Please say Hi to my dad and my grandma for me. I know that you all are looking down on me. Please try to keep me going in the right direction. I could only imagine how hard that is, because I am me! But, I know that you are the man up for the challenge. Always have been and always will.
I have tried so many times to post a bulletin on other pages but just have never been able to click the accept button. But, today, I am going to be strong and accept my good bye. No, not good bye, but see you when I get there!
Matt, so young and such an inspiration to the state.. This man just graduated high school several years ago and now the highest demand for his age to take on a strong power like he did- what a loss. He was called by God to do this job, and he did it well!
The family is in my prayers and will always continue on Matt's legacy here in Modesto. The city of Fairfield will never be the same. Rest in Peace Matt!!! God bless!!
I only knew Matt for a brief period of time, but I must say this tragedy has really affected me. I cannot imagine how his family and friends must feel and my heart breaks for them as well as our community. I feel sad that I could not have gotton to know him better or to run into him sometime here in Fairfield. I want to help our community continue his DREAM. For his family and friends and others in our community who are hurting because of this senseless act of violence, my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Take care and GOD BLESS!
Let me start by saying, I don't even know this person and was only informed of his existence by the news feeds of yahoo and yet testimonies of his life made me regret that such a man has passed away. I offer my condolences to his family and friends.
I have lived in two countries and I could say that most people (including myself) of my generation barely concern themselves of matters that encompass beyond their circle of relationships. Yet this man seems different, from what people say about him he seems to be a man who had expounded his horizons and included his entire community in his inner circle. He seems to be a man who could and had wanted to make a diiference. There is a shortage of people like that. Not being acquainted to him (and not even american), I might be out of place to say this but his death was probably a terrible loss to everyone. They have lost a son, friend, a councilman and more importantly they have lost the living proof that change can be effected by anyone who has the will and the heart to do so. I hope people would not just remember him but rather LIVE his memory.
Hats off to you matt. Thanks for inspiring someone halfway around the world with the life you have led. I will be praying for you.
TO ALL WHO KNEW MATTY....HE WOULD WANT EVERYONE TO HELP KEEP HIS DREAM ALIVE...PLEASE DO YOUR PART TO MAKE SURE THIS HAPPENDS. MATT WILL BE MISSED BY EVERONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN.....TO THE GARCIA FAMILY WORDS COULDNT EXPRESS HOW YOU ALL FEEL BUT JUST REMEMBER WE ALL ARE HERE FOR YOU. MATT WILL LIVE ON IN ALL OF US EVERYDAY. I WILL NEVER FORGET THE EAR TO EAR SMILE HE ALWAYS HAD EVERY TIME I SAW HIM. MAY YOU REST IN PARADISE MATTY UNTILL WE MEET AGAIN WATCH OVER EVERYONE YOU KNOW AND KEEP THEM SAFE. MOST OF ALL HELP EVERYONE GET THREW THIS HARD TIME. TO MATTYS FAMILY IF YOU NEED ANYTHING WE ALL ARE HERE FOR YOU. MATT I THINK ABOUT YOU EVERYDAY ...AND WE ALL MISS YOU. YOUR LEAGACY WILL GO ON THREW EVERONE WHO KNOWS YOU FOREVER...."PLEASE KEEP THE DREAM ALIVE"
Death ends a life but it does not end a relationship. Continue your relationship with Matt. Do for yourself and others what Matt would want you to do. Carry his legacy in your heart and reach the wonderful stature that Matt inspired you to reach.
A man never stands so tall as when he stoops to help a child. Matt is a giant.
To Matt Garcia's family and friends, I wish to convey my heartfelt sorrow for the loss of this wonderful young man. In these troubled times, it seems so rare to see a man this young, achieve so much in his short life. I hope your memories of this fine young man live on.
I am so sorry to hear about your tragic loss. As a teacher, it is few and far between that you meet a young man with such enthusiasm and respect for mankind. Please know that our family is praying for your family through this ever so difficult time.
I still can't believe its true. Everyday I wake up and feel like this is the day that Matt will miraculously appear in the streets of Fairfield & this nightmare will be over. My heart hurts for ALL of the family including the cousins that Matt and I share (Lisa, Renea, & Mikie). This whole incident seems so unreal and I wish it was. What helps me through is knowing that I will do all that I can to "Keep The Dream Alive". I look forward to being a part of the foundation and never allowing the time that passes to soften our urgency to stop the violence in Fairfield! If we work together as a community we can keep Matt's legacy going. Having Matt's dream in our minds and spirit in our hearts and letting him see our great progress will make each passing day bearable. To the family: God be with you and Bless you all, To my cousins: I love you more than anything, To Matt's friends: keep him in your hearts and follow his dream, and To Matt: until we meet again, I am happy for the few moments we shared in conversation, thankful the inspiration that you've been to me and will continue to be, I love you!
How tragic it is to see such a promising young life snuffed out so unfairly. As a mother to members of the younger generation myself, I know how proud you were of this young man's drive in trying to make something not only of himself, but his community. Hopefully, his memory will inspire more young people to be interested in the well being of their own communities. Your family will be in my prayers.
From:
Lesley in North Carolina
I'm honored to say that I once had the opportunity to meet the honorable Councilman Mr. Matt Garcia in person earlier this year of 2008 at a Fairfield/Suisun Chamber of Commerce business mixer meeting. He was exceptionally kind and easy to speak with. I'm most humbled to learn by reading the various comments listed here that he was a born-again Christian as I'm born again as well.
I look forward to the day that I can meet his family, and to working as a volunteer to keep his legacy strong. I pray that Jesus Christ keeps Matt right next to Him as I know they both will continue to keep constant watch over me.
God Bless Matt for what his name will continue to do for the youth of the world, and for those of us who are attempting to make a similar positive impact as Matt Garcia has done.
My prayers are with you and all who had the honor to have met Matt. I was inspired several times by Matt and was looking forward to working with him on his fairfield project. I was to meet with him the week of his request to live with our heavenly father. I live in Sacramento now but was born and raised in Fairfield. With Matt's inspiration I have done many outreaches within Sacramento and will continue to live with his inspiration within me. He had so much excitement in his voice when he spoke of the youth and the need to overcome violence and use our voices as young adults. Thank you for raising a ONE OF A KIND MAN!
My prayers are with you and all who had the honor to have met Matt. I was inspired several times by Matt and was looking forward to working with him on his fairfield project. I was to meet with him the week of his request to live with our heavenly father. I live in Sacramento now but was born and raised in Fairfield. With Matt's inspiration I have done many outreaches within Sacramento and will continue to live with his inspiration within me. He had so much excitement in his voice when he spoke of the youth and the need to overcome violence and use our voices as young adults. Thank you for raising a ONE OF A KIND MAN!
To Matts familt Im didnt know Matt Im from Oakland Im so sorry for your loss , but also Im happy because they found 2 out if 3 and justice will be served sooner or later the other killer will be found. His with God looking over us to protect us from evil . My prayers are for you and the the whole family of Matt Garcia . RIP MATT
EVERYONE LOVED MATT ESPECIALLY HIS FAMILY , BUT I HAVE READ THE COMMENTS ON HERE AND THE IS ONE THAT IS NOT TRUE AND IT DISTURBES ME MATTHEW WAS NOT RAISED NY HIS GRANDMOTHER CHRIS HE WAS RAISED BY HIS PARENTS TERESA AND RAYMOND WHO LOVED HIM DEEPLY AND DID A WONDERFUL JOB OF RAISING HIM I'M NOT SAYING THE CHRIS DID NOT HAVE A MAJOR ROLE IN HIS LIFE BECAUSE SHE DID HE LOVED F=HER GREATLY , BUT IN THE COMMENT IT SAYS HE LIVED WITH HER AND WAS RAISED BY HER AND THAT JUST IS NOT TRUE HE MOVE INTO HER HOME A YEAR AGO , I LOVE YOU T&R GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU STRONG , MATT I LOVE YOU TOO AND WILL MISS YOUR SMILING FACE MAY YOU REST IN PEACE
I personaly didnt know Matt.But my prays and thoughts are with his family and friends.
A small poem that I was just thinking of.
untiled
A person who never knew
Someone who was a councial member
A brave strong indvel
Someone who never backed out
Only a 22 year old who was lead to change alot
The youth who thought of he's achivments
RIP Matt your someone who I never knew but now call a brave hero.
My deepest sympathy to your family. My late Father had his business in Fairfield and believed in its community. I grew up in Vallejo and went to school with many Fairfield kids. My hope is there will be many that follow in this fine young mans footsteps. Matt Garcia is an example of Integrity and Goodness. Rest in peace, and may God Bless and defend his grieving family.
ive been watching everyday i knew they were gonna catch the person! im so happy for the family. and look its some wacked out crack head felon with no life. sorry but happy they caught them.
MATT please come see me in my dreams i have so much to tell you i miss you so much i miss being in grammas backyard and having you coming out and asking me what you should wear i miss gettin on gramma about smoking ciggarettes i have your ugly ass shoes i kept them your my lil cousin i miss you sooo much you know ill take care of gramma i promise i will go over there way more often .... is this real please pass me in the traffic with your clean asss caddilac did you see me at the funeral i wore that suit for YOU i had to show you that IM the BEST dresser in OUR FAMILY thats why i popped my tie and fixed my hankerchif after my speech FOR YOU , WE ARE NOT AVERAGE PEOPLE REMEMBER I TOLD YOU THAT ILL KEEP OUR NAME IN THE SPOTLIGHT
I LOVE YOU PLEASE COME SEE ME IN MY DREAMS I HAVE SO MUCH TO SAY
I was fortunate to have met Matt in our Political Science class this past summer at Solano College. Because he was in politics, he was often asked questions. As a citizen who is tired of politics as a whole, he won me over. He gave me and others hope that change was coming. I hope this wakes people up to the fact that change has to come now. This cannot happen any more. I believe Council Member Matt Garcia would want nothing less. Although I am in Southern California now, my thoughts and prayers are with his family and many friends.
The Matt Garcia in me says that who ever did this should be brought to justice fairly. The anger in me says that who ever did this should feel all the pain he has caused all of us. I pray the Matt Garcia side prevails.
Man what can i say... matt you were always the one to calm me and the homegirl down and tell us we were to pretty to be fighting or for the drama you always held the peace... u was Our PEACE MAKER... and we really respected you for that..and when we found out that you were running for the fairfield council me and the homegirl grabed one of your flyers that said VOTE FOR MATT GARCIA and walked in the middle of the street at 12 midnight yelling " VOTE FOR THE HOMIE MATT!!!", then we seen you at 4of July at the marina and we were all talkin with you and your million dollar smile... BUT now all that has changed and now your looking over all of us that loved you and at your city CHEESING.. youve changed our community matt and i thank you for doing that... my heart goes out to the family for your loss just know that he is in good hands now and that Lord almighty is going to see you threw the hard times just dont think of him as a loss but as a winner because he is now in the presence of the Father and living in Paradise.................
My thoughts and prayers go out to Matt's family. I grew up in Fairfield and also graduated from Armijo High in the early '80s'. I was deeply upset to read about his passing; but prouder to know that a fellow 'Indian' was making positive strides in my former hometown.
I had the pleasure of meeting Matt one day while we were both at the Verizon Wireless booth together at the mall. He was very excited about just getting assigned a seat in the City Council and about being the youngest ever city counselman. He was very excited about making a difference and gave me his business card if I ever needed anything. I was shocked when I saw the news report. I met him only breifly, but felt I kind of knew him. He will be sorely missed!!
Matt has lead the way for the future of the young people to get more involved with there community and to make there thoughts and ideas come to life for a better place for all of us to life
Coleman "Tom" Randall, Jr
- Member, Yolo County Republican Party Central Commi
|2008-09-10 02:22:51
Although, I did not meet you personally, Matt. I knew that you were a rising star in local politics and you represented a position seldomly heard among City Council Members representing the youth in the community.
Hopefully, the community will rise up and expect that your case and the culprits be apphrehended and brought to justice by requesting that your case be profiled on such TV shows as America's Most Wanted (AMW) and 48 Hours. It was an injustice to lose you as a representative in this community. May you R.I.P. Matt although your memories will never cease as you were an inspiration to us all.
I knew Matt a little over 3 l/2 yrs. In my 72 yrs of life I never met anyone that left such a impression. He was a very special person . My family loved Matt.. We are so sadded. and very angry. I hope the culprint is captured. I know in my heart had he lived. He would one day become govenor of calif. You will always be in my family hearts R. I. P. Matt . We love you. God Bless you and your family
We love all that you stand for , we'll "Keep the Dream Alive" you don't have to do it alone, now. This tradgey has brought the community together. We will be guided by your spirit everyday, every step of the way.
You are so LOVED and so MISSED.
A Message from above:
Peace young man. Our hearts & minds will remain open in the memory of your mission. Shine down on us, for your strength and determination will never be forgotten, and therefore, we'll carry on, carry on your dream, and not alone, but with you, for you and for always.
i went to preschool with Matt and elementary school at Anna Kyle where he was in love with my best friend Jennifer lol....he had to move or transfer schools and i remember he was so sad..he wrote her a letter talking about how he wanted to marry her one day and how they would still be together even though he had to go to a different school. lol when i was in 2nd grade he was in 3rd grade and we were in the same Christmas play at the Community Center...he was a gingerbread man and i just remember it was sOoOooOO funny! i brought that up EVERY time i ever saw him around town and even to this day if he was still here we would laugh and joke about it...after he moved in elementary school i didnt keep in touch with him like i should have...we would just see each other around town at random places over the years...the 4th of july always reminds me of him because i remember knowing that no matter what, i could ALWAYS look forward to running into him at the parade downtown..it never failed...this past 4th of july is probably the only year i didnt see him at the parade and thats only because i went out of town this time...im sure he was downtown though watching the parade at the same corner as every year...the last time i actually saw him and talked to him was New Years Eve of 07...after a party in Sacramento, me and a couple other friends came back to fairfield and went to Dennys where he already was with one of his friends so we met up..and talked for a while..i think he ended up paying for our food for some reason also which i thought was really sweet and generous...i still just can NOT believe that hes gone..it breaks my heart because of all the things he has to leave unfinished...he was going to do SoooOoO much more than what he already did which is a major loss for the whole city of fairfield...i hope that they arrest the suspects in his case ASAP!!!! they need to pay for what they did...but i know they will sooner or later because they will have to face God on Judgment day..and live with a super guilty conscience 24/7. i actually feel sorry for the person that did it because he or she must be REALLY hurt inside and have a lot of issues with themselves in order to commit a crime like that..."hurt people hurt people" and he or she hurt matt AND a billion other people!! im just gonna miss his presence in Fairfield soOoOOo much!! he will ALWAYS be in my thoughts and prayers and so will his whole entire family!! p.s. what comforts me about the whole thing is KNOWING that he was a born again Christian and that he had a personal relationship with the Lord...i know hes a big leader/Mayor in heaven for sure and i cant wait til i get there someday and will be able to reunite with him and call him a "gingerbread man" again lol!!
You were such an inspiration, even back in high school, with a smile and a personality that could brighten any boring class or dingy hallway. You were one of those kids that was meant for so much more and you achieved so much in your 22 years. I remember when I first came to Armijo, I felt like an outsider but you were one of the few that made me feel like I had been there forever. I remember all the jokes you would crack, how suave and positive you were. You were a rariety to this world that seems at time is full of hate and violence, you wanted so much and were willing to give so much for our little town we called home. I will never understand why God takes such amazing people from this world, but you my friend, were one of the most amazing people I ever had the honor to know. You were wise beyond your years and you will forever live on in our hearts.
You were such an inspiration, even back in high school, with a smile and a personality that could brighten any boring class or dingy hallway. You were one of those kids that was meant for so much more and you achieved so much in your 22 years. I remember when I first came to Armijo, I felt like an outsider but you were one of the few that made me feel like I had been there forever. I remember all the jokes you would crack, how suave and positive you were. You were a rariety to this world that seems at time is full of hate and violence, you wanted so much and were willing to give so much for our little town we called home. I will never understand why God takes such amazing people from this world, but you my friend, were one of the most amazing people I ever had the honor to know. You were wise beyond your years and you will forever live on in our hearts.
We met Matt a few times through some friends. I am glad we had the chance to meet him. Our thoughts and prayers will always be with him and his family. Rest in Peace.
Wold Family
I didnt know matt,but I heard nothing but good and positive thing's about him.Today I cryed for his short life here.He had so much more he wanted to do.We ask god why?Why alway's the good one's,He needed another angel.There's a peom I wanted to share with the Garcia family that's from my Mom's Obituary, Don't cry for me I've Laughed,I've Learned,I've Lived......Don't cry for me.I've seen what the world could be,I've heard the birds sing,dont cry for me. I've fought my battles,ran my race,Now I'm going to meet my savior face to face.So please dear ones.....At last,at last I'm finally free. I'm so sorry for your loss may god bleess your family
My prayers and thoughts are with the Garcia family and everyone that knew and loved Matt. I didn't know Matt at all but my heart is very heavy for his family. Stay strong and God Bless.
I spoke with Matt several times regarding issues close to our hearts. He was quick to respond, quick to act, quick to care. He was a light of hope in our long tunnel of darkness. But we do share the same hope so I'll see you again Matt ...
Our deepest condolences to Matt's family.
I just wanna say thanks for everything you did for our city and always being cool with everyone. It was awesome knowing you and watching all the things you made happen. You never gave up and I admire that. I know a lot of people knew you better than I did but I think the impact you made on everyone reaches the same across the board. I've tried to live life making as many friends as I can and I'm glad to say that when you went on to be with God, we ended on good terms. You've given me inspiration to help improve the lives of youth and continue the good fight.
The entire city of Fairfield is mourning the loss of this great individual, Mr. Matt Garcia. Thank you for your service to the citizens in making this world a better place. I wish your family and friends strength during this difficult time of grieving. You will not be forgotten. Heaven is lucky to have you. God bless.
I had the pleasure of meeting Matt 2 years ago as he coached my daughter he was a great coach and mentor to the girls. The community has lost a superior role model that will never be forgotten, as the community of Fairfield let's keep Matt's Dream ALIVE, work for peace and CHANGE for the better. The youth is our future if we can finish what he started in Fairfield this will be the Great city he dreamed it would be. BLESSINGS TO ALL!
I remember the first time I saw Matt on the knews. That's how I learned about him and his aspirations. I can't describe how proud I felt to see such a remarkable young man whishing to do so much good for his community. Yesterday I learned about his death and I can't believe this has happened. I will keep him and all his family in my prayers.
I did not know Matt and I am sorry for that.I do remember the first time I heard of him and his political aspirations.I was so impressed with such a young man knowing his direction in life.His goodness seemed so infectious that I never in a million years thought his life would end so tragically and senseless.My heart goes out to the Garcia Family and all those close to him as I am sure it is many.My prayers and thoughts have been endless this past week and I hope Matt that you are at peace.You will truly be mourned by all that knew you and many who were not blessed to have known you.Its still to hard to believe.God bless tou Matt and Thank you for all you where.the world is definitly lost a wonderful human and one that was really going to make it a better place.
Matt... You are a great guy who had a lot going and wanted nothing but to change the city of Fairfield. And i hope that we can KEEP YOUR DREAM ALIVE. You did nothing but GOOD. So why? Why you? You didn't deserve this.and we all know this. I will remember you always and never forget you. You always turned a frown into a smile with your charming smile and friendliness!! May you rest in peace.
to the coutemanche's, garcias, and taylors. i love you all very much and matt always has and always will have a special place in my heart. he did so much for me & my family in the time that i knew him and for that he will never be forgotten. if any of you ever need anything i am a phone call away.
with love,
Erika
Matt, I wake up everday hoping that its just a bad dream damn near cry everytime i find out its a reality. I love and miss you wish i could see you pulling up to Favelas and going to downtown Vacaville. I thank god for putting you in my path and sad about the way i have to say bye till our paths cross again my friend good bye may you rest in peace and give strengh to your family. god bless
Dear Matt...
We just talked at our cousin Renea's weddding, and I was so impressed with what an amazing human being you are...I responded to your myspace blog, and told you God was going to use you in a mighty way...and HE has....I know your looking down from Heaven and you can see that HE has. He did and is still using you in a mighty way....your such an amazing person and left such an imprint in so many lives....My heart goes out to your grandma kris...talking to her that day at the wedding, she beamed with pride and was so proud of you....she told me " look at my grandson, Kimmie...I am so proud of him", and you could see it, and auntie margo going around telling everyone, how handsome you are and how proud she is of you.....you truly are an angel from God, and HE put you here to change people's lives and you did......HE had a plan for you from birth...we love you and this world is a better place, because Matt Garcia was in it.....I pray the teens and youth of Fairfield honor your name and become great and so great things. Because a young man named Matt Garcia believed in them , and wanted to make a difference in a child's life.....you are so so missed young man of God...and so loved...Rest in Peace Matt....
teresina
- i thank god for giving matt to m as a friend
|2008-09-07 12:46:40
i hope you the est i thank you lord for send matt to me down from haven i \ll miss em wit all my heart i hpe the best rest in peace my dearest friend matt
I never got a chance to meet Matt, and I now deeply regret that. I know that I shall see him in glory, someday.
When I learned of all the the Lord in the life of his Father Raymond Courtemarche, and in Matt's life too. I could see the filthy hands of satan all over Matts brutal murder.
And while I struggle to understand God's will, I know that what satan intended for harm, the Lord will ultimately use for God. See you on the other side Matt. You will be sorely missed here in Fairfield-Suisun.
I did not know Matt but I was affected by the news of of his tragic death. I feel for the family greatly and I hope all who loved Matt soon find some peace and comfort. So sorry for your loss.
Im still having a hard time wrapping my head around all of this.. Matt and I went to
Armijo and green valley middle together . I can still remember that bright smile that he
carried with him daily. Truly a genuinely nice guy.
Over the years Matt's accomplishments
are something for everyone to remember and be proud of. I was so excited and proud when i found out he won his seat on the council, he had many goals that were to make changes in all the right places in our community. This was the begnning of his dreams coming true.
everyone "it's time for change" lets not let his dream of a better
fairfield not be forgotten..
lets be thankfull for the 22 years we were blessed to have him.
In my thoughts always,
Stacey
My deepest and most sincerest condolences to the Garcia family. I could not even begin to know what it feels like to lose a loved one, non the less a child. My heart goes out to you. Matt will continue to live on, through his accomplisments and as a giver of life.. We should all be inspired by his insight to life. We should all respect LIFE! God placed him on earth for a reason. He is now sitting next to the lord in a very special place..May Matt live on forever!!!!!Let us keep his dream alive!!!!
I did not know Matt, however: My deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the Garcia family. It is a tragedy that this young man's life with big dreams was cut short by such a senseless crime. He was an inspiration to all the young people today. May the Lord give you comfort and strength during this difficult time. God bless
I am so sorry 4 your loss. Matt was a 1 of a kind person,and this world will never be the same.I pray 4 the lord to comfort his family in these times of sorrow.I will look forward 2 hearing that his killer was brought to justice.
I feel compelled to comment on this senseless tragedy that happened Monday night. A tragedy that cut short a very promising career and took the life of a wonderful boy loved and admired by everyone.
I woulk like to focus on his grandmother, whom raised him and was largely responsible for teh man he had become. Chris Garcia had a total of 33 grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is proud of them all and righfully so. Chris and Joe (her husband) were raised in Woodland, CA, married in 1949 when Chris was only 17. That union brought 5 boys to life and Chris and Joe were involved in all their activities. Joe died over 10 years ago. Then 4 years ago in june chris lost her eldest son Joe Jr. to cancer. It was very painful for me to see Chris in such bad shape over Joey's death. But she is strong and she bounced back.
Matt was her youngest son's boy. Chris and Joe raised him. She was so proud of him as she had every right to be.
At Christmas she sent me the newspaper article about his election to the council. I had lunch with her in June. She brought an album of pictures of Matt at his swearing in ceremony. Proud of him was she.
Chris is widely loved by everyone she encounters. She is so giving of herself and Matt had all those same qualities.
I would like to apologize to Matt's father. Long ago I babysat him, he was just a baby then. He was asking for his bottle in Spanish, I didn't understand him, lucklily Chris came home before he starved to death.
I am deeply saddened by this tragedy that has struck my great friend. Having Matt in your life for 22 years was a great blessing.... and his legacy will always live.
I would like to say to Chris: God bless you and the whole family. My family is praying for you. Someday our Lord will say to you, "Well done, my good and faithful servant!"
matt was not raised by chris his grandmother he was raised by his mother Teresa and stepdad Raymond please make comment with true facts matt moved into chris's house 1 year ago
I didn't know Matt but heard about this tragedy thru the various media outlets. What a horrible thing to happen to such a young man full of so much life, hope, and promise. I am a young Hispanic mother of 4 children 3 of them being boys. To know that Matt was a young Hispanic male trying to make a change and show our youth that there are many paths you can travel and that if you apply yourself you can make a change. Even in his death he has helped people. He has given strangers the gift of LIFE! His legacy will live on thru his family and friends and the people of Fairfield. To his family and friends my heart and prayers are with you. Celebrate his life I feel that is what he would have wanted. To his family you must be so proud he accomplished so much in his short life and made such an impact on people. He would not have been able to do that without the love and support of you guys. JOB WELL DONE! I THANK YOU AND SO DO THE PEOPLE OF FAIRFIELD. THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR SON WITH THE COMMUNITY. To all the young people who knew him or who have been touched by his story do not let his death be in vain and help our communities make a change.
Matt Garcia reminds me of Dr. King. He was trying to rid us of the violence and ineqities in this city. His life was cut short, but I intend to help make his dream a reality. I am 63 yeares old, but this 22 year old has reinspired me to do more!!
IM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS, MATT WAS AN AWESOME LOVING GUY, I ALWAYS REMEMBERED SEEING HIM IN HIS NICE SUITS AND ALWAYS SMILING AND ALWAYS SAYING HI TO EVERYONE EVEN THOUGH HE DIDNT KNOW THEM. I AM GOING TO MISS HIM SO MUCH AND THE ONLY WAY ALL OF US CAN GET THROUGH THIS IS BY THINKING POSITIVE, HE WILL LIVE ON, HIS LEGACY WILL LIVE ON, AND I DONT THINK ANYONE WILL EVER FORGET HIM.
IM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS, MATT WAS AN AWESOME LOVING GUY, I ALWAYS REMEMBERED SEEING HIM IN HIS NICE SUITS AND ALWAYS SMILING AND ALWAYS SAYING HI TO EVERYONE EVEN THOUGH HE DIDNT KNOW THEM. I AM GOING TO MISS HIM SO MUCH AND THE ONLY WAY ALL OF US CAN GET THROUGH THIS IS BY THINKING POSITIVE, HE WILL LIVE ON, HIS LEGACY WILL LIVE ON, AND I DONT THINK ANYONE WILL EVER FORGET HIM.
On behalf of myself and my family-we'd like to send our condolences to the Garcia family. On Sat.September 6th-there will a fundraiser for the family of Matt Garcia at Club Oasis located @ 1626 N.Texas Street (across from I-Hop). Doors open @ 8p.m.All the proceeds made at the door will be donated to his family for any expences they have.Matt gave to his community and now it's time we give back-so anyone who'd like to celebrate this young mans life and is 21 or older-please come join us and help raise some money for his family. Thankyou, Maryann Perez,
I wasn't an extremely close friend of Matts but I just want to share my experiences about him. The Image that keeps coming to my head is of him when we were both in High school. He'd often dress in suits walking down the halls smiling and giving positive words to everyone he encountered.
We frequently shook hands and the conversation being nearly the same each time; not in what was said but the message. He'd ask me, How I was doing? how's sports? hows my sister and family ? I could tell how sincere and genuine he was and the message I captured was clear Matt always put others first and he really cared about people and I know that this was obvious to the people that knew him.
Matt loved fairfield and loved the people of fairfield and most importantly he loved god.
Rest In Peace Matt Fairfield loves you and you will never be forgotten.
To the family, friends and colleagues of Councilman Matt Garcia:
On behalf of the City of Cathedral City, Council, staff and our residents please accept our sincerest condolences at this time of deep saddness and loss.
In our thoughts and prayers.
Mayor Kathleen DeRosa
My heart breaks at the thought of what happened a couple days ago. I feel as though like many others that I have been living in a nightmare.
My heart goes out to raymond, teresa, bri, tia- rae, and the rest of the garcia family. I have many great memories of Matt on our former street: Sunhaven ct. you see there was like 20+ kids there while we grewing up and we would have block parties, baseball and kick ball games, swimming parties and flash light tag ar night and many other countless activities that we all did year after year.
Matt, always had that huge beaming smile on his face and cared so much about everyone on that street. He was alwys the leader on the court with all the guys including my brother Josh and his cousin Mark who lived right around the cornor. Always reminding Josh and Mark to keep their head on straight and to be focused on what is important in life. Matt inspired us.
I remember this past November when Matt won the election on tv. The interview on TV made me cry b/c i was so proud of Matt and what he was doing. I felt like he was my own brother and that smile continued to shine. He had a dream for our hometown of Fairfield and our generation that must not die!
Our generation can do this, just like matt said "why not me?" pertaining to his youthfulness and running for councilmen. Our generation must get beyond ourselves and start being selfless and working together for the good of our city, state, and sphere of influence.
WE CAN DO THIS AND TOGETHER AS FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF MATT WE CAN TURN THIS CITY , STATE AND NATION UPSIDE DOWN FOR THE GLORY OF GOD.
This was matt's dream, and we can do it don't let anyone tell you other wise. Surround yourself with positive people that will inspire you to do great things and we will keep Matt's dream alive.
Raymond and Teresa, you two are amazing parents that modeled Christ to your son. Matt was who he was because of the both of you. You did a fine job raising him. That was no accident. I love you guys and have been lifting your guys hands up in this time of great sorrow.
ive known matt and his family for years and have been cying everday because of this its soo senceless and wrong that i dont know how to deal with it. Matt was the best part of every one in fairfield all in one person, always had a smile and something positive to say. He was the most loved person i know and there are thousands that would take his place if it was possible. I can only pray for Matt and his family.. I know ur watching me typing this and smiling rightnow Matt but its so hard.. i love u bro
hi we did not know matt but he looks like he was a gret person we are so soory about your loss we believe that there is a god and justice will be served. may god bless all of you and keep the faith that of something bad something good comes out. you are in our prayers. the gonzalez family
I had the pleasure of briefly working with Matt at Chevys when he was only about 15 years old. I remember how hard working he was and the pride he took in his job (something not many young people do these days) I was surprised and also happy to see he was running for city council last year. I knew right away he had my vote. Matt's family did a wonderful job raising him and I know they must be so proud of all his accomplishments. He has made our city proud. He was a man of character and a man not afraid to stand up for what he believed in. I only hope my son will grow up to have such wonderful qualities. He will be missed by all.
To the family I've known my whole life-
I am truly sorry for this loss, my only answer is that God saw what a magnificent creation he became and decided he needed him more than we need him here.
Love to you all and God Bless. Will see you next week.
My heart goes out to Matts family, friends,collegues and the City of Fairfield. We have lost yet another shining star. May all find comfort in their memories
of him and may his legacy continue through all those he touched.
My sincere condolences go out to the family of Matt. Being a mother of four, three of them being boys, can not imagine the pain you are feeling. I never met Matt, but have heard a lot about him. You did a wonderful job with him and have so much to be proud of. Matt has left such a legacy here not only in Fairfield, but across the country. My prayer is that it will wake up our young people and that they can learn from this. Learn to be a positive role model and do something to help make this world a better place to live. Matt did not die in vain. God has a plan and Matt knew what it was. God used him as an instrument to get the message out there. Our young people today are so out of control. Matt has touched so many lives and has been such an inspriration to so many he will always be here in spirit. To the Mother of Matt: Don't dispare, I know you are hurting, but hold your head high, you have so much to be proud of. You will be in my prayers along with your family. Be strong and remember God never ever puts
more on us than we can bare. The person that has done this horrific thing will be brought to justice one way or another. God Bless
The last few days have been the most difficult that I have ever had. I wake up
thinking that this must be a dream. I just can not believe that you are gone. I
am just so honored to have you as a cousin and to see all the people that love
you and that you have inspired. You remind me of grandpa so much. I am going to
miss that smile of yours and the talks that we had. When I close my eyes I see
you walking down the stairs at Renea's wedding and I annouced "The City
Councilman" and you just loved it!! You never got the chance to come for a
visit to Wa....but after Tue I will take a piece of you with me. You are known
as the FF City Councilman, but you will always be Mamu to me. RIP my darling
cousin and come visit me in my dreams. I will be waiting for you.
PS. I
promised you I will keep the Thanksgivings going and I will!!!
Matty G- Our family will miss you deeply! The impact you had on my family is one so big that you could never imagine. I know I told you this before but I want to tell you again, THANK YOU So much for bringing my daughter back to me and our family. We all love you like a part of our family. Annette and I loved you like our own son. Tony and Angelina loved you like the older brother they
never had, And rest assured Erika really loved you and never stopped loving you either even after you guys broke up.
Matt you will be sorley missed. The impact you made on everyones life on this side of the river will live for ever. I promise never to let your name be forgotten! You will be with us on our family
gatherings and your dreams will be followed by us. My kids loved you sooo much. They have never had some one impact their lives like you have and for that I am so thankfull.The smiles you brought to my wife were truly heart felt. The joy you brought to everyone was true. Our lives have changed for ever. We love you and all your family . May the strength of our Lord help them in thier time of need. Thank you Lord for bringing Matt into our lives, take care of our Matty
G.
We will see you later.
Love The Perez Family
David, Annette, Erika,
Tony, Angelina and all of Oakley and the rest of the Perez family
To Mr. Garcia's family, I say his spirit still lives. I pray that may his soul rest in peace. May his public and humanitarian works lives on. I never met him but his tribute from the media really touched my heart. Let this senseless crime against him make the community to reevaluate itself and continue where Mr. Garcia left off. Many great men I read about that have influence their societies positively share his fatal experience but their works, dreams and good intentions still lives on.
May God bless you Mr. Garcia.
I am extremely saddened with what happened to Councilmember Matt Garcia. To have a young life with so much to give snuffed by someone filled with hate makes not sense to me. The public is outraged and justifiably so. Now it must act - but how? The answer is both simple and profound.
I met Matt during an event hosted by the Solano Hispanic Chamber of Commerce asking for the chamber's support for his candidacy. When he spoke, I thought he was a college student getting ready to graduate. He was very personable, articulate and knew exactly what he wanted to accomplish as a city councilmember. To say the least, I was very impressed; it also helped that he was a young Latino ready to serve the community as an elected official. I make this point because we need more of his ilk in our community.
I would see him from time to time at different events and when he found out that I was running for the State Assembly, he was very excited and threw his support for me. He later mentioned tht he would follow me to Sacramento as an Assembly member. This is, of course, if I am fortunate to win.
As I campaigned throughout the district, I often mentioned Matt as the young and upcoming Latino politico. My mission is to convince other young Hispanics, Asians and African-Americans to get involved with the political environment - using him as a classic example. It is both healthy and critical.
Now we have a void that needs to be filled. But who will fill it? The simple and profound response is: EVERYONE
Matt Garcia did so many wonderful things for Fairfield. He was so kind and inspiring to everyone he met. I don't know why anyone would want to do something so horrible to a man that was so great.
We'll miss you Matt, may you rest in peace, and be happy now in heaven.
And to his family, I will keep you in my prayers. I am so sorry for your loss. I hope you all stay strong.
Even though this is such a tragic event, I pray something good comes from it.
I married into Matt's family three years ago and never actually got the opportunity to meet him but I always heard wonderful things from him through the family and my husband who thought the whole world of Matt and loved him like another son. We are so sad and heartbroken for the loss of such a great man and our thoughts and prayers are with our family. We are truly sorry not to be able to make it to California for the services but send our love and we will continue to hold Matt close in our hearts. We love you Teresa, Raymond, Brianna, Tia and Mom and Tonya!!
Im still having a hard time wrapping my head around all of this.. Matt went to Armijo with me and he was one of those guys that everyone knew, or wanted to know. When i think of him now I can still remember that bright smile that he carried with him daily. Truly a genuinely nice guy. All of his accomplishments are something for everyone to remember and be proud of. A man of true wisdom way beyond his years. I was excited when i found out he won his seat on council, i felt that this was the perfect opportunity for someone of fresh young intelligence to step out and make changes in all the right places ...So please everyone "it's time for change" lets not let his dream of a better fairfield be forgotten..
And to all the Garcia family, and friends of Matt lets be thankfull for the 22 years we were blessed to have with him, and never forget his wonderful legacy..You are all in my prayers through this hard time.
The impact you made Matt on this community and our youth will live on! R.I.P The community has lost A truly remarkable Young man! Justice will Be served Matt !
fuckin miss you man. i hella will never forget all the stupid shit u told me and all the fuckin toothpicks u musta gone through every fuckin day. word for word you told me you were gunna run for mayor of fairfield because you appreciated everything fairfield has done and given to you and you just wanted to give it all back and more. 23 fuckin years old fuck that shit. sorry i cant make it to anything back home. but i know youll always be watchin over our city. makin sure it stays gold. love you man we shooda hung out more. you were legit dude i think thats y we got along so well. love you matt.
Matt was really a wonderful person!! I went to armijo with him and voted for him to be Home coming king and i voted for him to be in the council because he's always been such a humble and down to earth person!! And he was really a person that talked the talk as well as walked the walked!! Whoever raised Matt Thank-you you raised a wonderful life changing young man that was headed all the way to the top. And through his life it was shown he had a loving and care family!! And know that the Love of God shined through him and whatever he did! And wen you look back on Matt's life be PROUD because not everyone can say that they raised such a wonderful, well loved, humbled, God fear man!! And I would personally like to thank-you for giving me such a wonderful young inspiring man to grow up and look up too!! Thank-you and God bless you!! And I pray God is with you all at your time of need!! That he will give you strength at your time of need!!
As the mother of 8 children all around Matts age, I can not imagine the pain the Garcia family is feeling right now.
As a resident of Fairfield, I can tell you how saddened and full of grief we are to have lost a young man so full of hope and promise, for himself and our community.
Almost every morning, I would awake to read the morning paper. I was always blessed to read about Matt and his concern for the youth of fairfield as well as the community as a whole.
Every Mother and Grandmother feels this could have been any one of our children that night. Behind that thought, our hearts go out to his Grandma and his family.
May we remember Matts family in daily prayer and give a helping hand as Matt would do for us if we were suffering a loss of this magnitude.
Until we meet in Heaven young man with young fresh dreams, I'll remember you always.
"Mother of 8 praying for change in Fairfield and safety for our children and grown children"
i never had the pleasure of meeting matt but i am saddened by the horror of his death. my heart goes out to his family and friends, and the city of fairfield. god bless you all.
To Briana and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss, you and your family have been in my thoughts and prayers every second over the past few days. I knew Matt because he was your brother and son. I most recently got to know him because he would stop by once or twice a week at the Starbucks where i work. Everyone always loved when Matt came in, he was always so nice to everyone and always had that million dollar smile on his face! I was just talking to him friday and i was making fun of him for having a license plate that said, "FFINEST," we both laughed and he went on to tell me about his other plates. Matt really was one of Fairfield's Finest! He meant so much to this community and to the people who live here! He did BIG things and i know he will continue to do them! i am so sorry for your loss. i love you guys!
"People buy into the leader before they buy into the vision" (John Maxwell)
Matt was a leader. He lead by example. He served others first. His ability to listen to others with an open mind, to look at their perspective but hold true to his own...his compassion for others, his confidence, his ambition ...his radiant smile. He walked through crowds of people, greeted everyone that crossed his path, sharing his vision, shaking hands with strangers...
I'm sure Matt knew that a leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way. Matt motivated others, he worked to model the change he wanted to see in his community. Matt connected with people...he cared. He impacted and influenced the lives of young and old. His energy and passion encouraged others to embrace change, to get involved, to take action....his influence is evident by the many who have responded to him as a person, and his vision to make a difference.
We will miss Matt! And to the Garcia and Courtemanche Family...our prayers are with you! I know you will not lay to rest the vision Matt had for this community. I truly believe that lives will continue to be impacted and the circle of influence will continue to positively promote change!
Matt was always Sunshine in my day .I was so proud of him and never hesitated in telling him so. His heart was always on fire for GOD and I knew that GOD had great plans for him.All my children Had a relationship with Matt and have many stories to tell. My daughter Angeleaque was best friends with Briana Matts sister. She spent alot of time in that household The FAITH that lives in that house brought my Angel to be the believer that she is. Matt was such a role model at an early age HE was so GOOD. 2 years ago my son was shot in the back of the head in a burglery.Angel called Brianna to pray with her. Devon was in a coma for a month. Matt was there for my family in PRAYER.When this happened to Matt Brianna came to Angel for PRAYER... In these times we always ask WHY can such a thing happen to such a bright shinning star how could anyone have put his light out???
Matt on his Myspace said that he couldn't wait to Meet JESUS CHRIST his LORD and SAVIOR well He is there with HIM right now. His light Still Shines To The GARCIA family and all of us who knew him will miss him DEARLY We just need to give our Tears over to GOD he will get us all through this.. PRAY for PEACE..........Matt would like that
The BLOOD Family
To Matt's family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I did not know your son, but felt angered and saddened reading about what has happened. Surely he was a bright and shining light for you and for your community.
Young people like Matt give all of us hope for the future. I hope that you will be able to find some peace again someday, and know that Matt will never be forgotten.
my prayers are with your family. i still can't believe this has happened. you were such a positive person and always knew how to make a bad day good! we have so many high school memories together that i will cherish forever. you will be someone i tell my daughter about when she gets old enough. i will tell her about all the good things you were doing for the community so her generation could live in a better city. you have touched so many lives and will touch so many more to come. you have become a legacy in our city. you will always be "Matt Garcia- honorary mayor of fairfield". you will be in everyone's hearts forever. you are going to be missed by everyone and never forgotten.
RIP matty and watch over our community so you can make sure we are doing things the way you have always visioned it
Liz and family
- EN PAZ DESCANSE NUESTRO HOMBRE DE BIEN
|2008-09-03 20:39:36
MAY HE REST IN PEACE OUR MAN OF HONOR. Such a special and honarable young man. Such a shining star. Such an positive role model for all people of all races and all creeds. We were the ones blessed by his presence in our midst and in our community. So young and so full of life and good wishes for all those he touched. All of us who knew him were fortunate to have witnessed a youngster grown in to a MAN OF GOOD WILL. When I learned of this tragedy my heart was heavy with grief and very much anger. Why? And, more importantly why him? At this time we must all act on faith and know that although his presence will be sorely missed his spirit will be with us forever. I pray for him and his family at this time knowing that at this time all I can offer his family is my prayers and my deepest condolences for their very great loss. To his family: he left you with honor and a legacy that will go on forever. To have touched a community with the depth that MATT did is a remarkable statement and a tribute to his family and himself. He will be greatly missed by all because he touched us all so deeply. Our prayers and thoughts are with you today and for a very long time. May God Bless you all and know that MATT today is with God but his spirit will be with us forever.
MAY HE REST IN PEACE!!
Matt was a GREAT guy. I remember him out on the baseball always willing to give a hand or make someone laugh. I have a picture of him bringing in all the equipment. ALways willing to help and be positive. Thank you for everything you did Matt. And to the family know that we all support you and will keep you in our prayers.
I am very sorry for your loss. Matt was an amazing person and he really cared about this community. Matt always wanted to help people in any way he could. He was kind, caring, thoughtful. You had an amazing son. Matt will be loved and missed dearly. But he will always be in the hearts of citizens in Fairfield. We love Matt.
First, my sincere condolences to Matt's large family and dear friends. Secondly, my condolences to his fellow co-workers and city officials. I had utmost pleasure of meeting Matt in a local Woodland restaurant. He just shined with bounds of civic energy. We exchanged Emails as he wanted to meet a young local Woodland city councilman, Art Pimental. Our phone conversations were about civic life & duty and about the League of California Cities. He was really engaging & excited about being a public servant. He really loved serving people & making California a better place. He said he wanted to learn from others, like councilman Pimentel. Then he said he wanted to learn from me & I was shocked. I had mentioned I volunteered on Phil Angelides campaign for governor. He about jumped out of his seat! Matt said he wanted youth to volunteer & serve their communities. We promised to keep in touch & we did. So, there you have it in his own words. Matt would like you to volunteer & get involved in your community. So, let's get going !
Im as residence of Sacramento. This was the first time I have heard about Matthew. I couldn't believe his age and all of his accomplishments. I was at work when I read the news and it hit home to me. I too, lost a loved one at a young age (21). So full of life, many hopes and dreams...I can relate to his family and friends. The grief, the pain, the anger the sadness. Coming together to remember him all the 22 years God has blessed you with his presence, will help heal the pain. I just would like to say God Bless You Matt Garcia and may prepetual light shine upon you. God Bless your family and friends too. You will be missed on Earth. God wanted you home, in Heaven :) R.I.P
Most of us met Matt on February 1st of this year as 18 of us were brought together for a nine month program called 'Leadership Today'. We had the opportunity to experience Matt's kindness, intellegence and eager personality over these past months. Our hearts are now heavy as we now prepare to complete this journey without one of our own. We will miss you Matt but are priviledged to have the opportunity to get to know you. Blessing and comfort to your family.
I saw the headline in the San Francisco Chronicle this afternoon about the tragedy that struck the Fairfield Area this week. I had no idea what had happened, due to the fact that I was out of town until early this morning. My thoughts and prayers as well as my condolences go out to the Garcia family.
Matt was a part of the Perez family and will be forever remembered by all of us!! He was a shining star and always a joy to have around. I know he was a part of everyones family that he knew!! This a tremendous loss for everyone and the person who did this must not have been thinking of what a huge loss this is for everyone..So selfish and no reason to take his life away. I hope he is caught!!!
Matt we l ove you and we know you will be looking down on us!! My thoughts and prayers to the family
I'm so sorry for your loss of Matt. He wanted change for the city of Fairfield. I'm not a resident of Fairfield, but a resident of San Francisco. It breaks my heart when someone that young and had a lot of living to go on had been cut short. I agree that gang violence shouldn't take hold in the cities and counties we live in and take innocent lives. It's time to bring in that change for the better and for the future. I hope that Matt's vision will go on with someone who will take that responsibility to STOP THE VIOLENCE! My heart goes out to you. God Bless and Godspeed!
Matty G i knew since about the fourth grade. He truly cared about this town and the people who live in it. He was a friend, mentor, and inspiration to all to fight for what was right. Im deeply saddened to have lost a friend like him! He touched alot of people's lives and always left a lasting impression. i miss you and my deepest condolences goes out to the family. lets keep his ideas going. you will always be remembered! RIP
Man so sad to hear! This subject really hits home when i see something like this. Being a victim of a shooting that very well could have ended like this, im blessed to still be here. god bless the family and i hope they catch the person who did this.
Matt was truly a shining star that was on his way to make positive changes for everyone in the Fairfield Community, especially the youth. I saw him a few months ago, hugged him and jokingly asked him for his autograph. I told him, "You're doing great things.. The world is watching you, we're watching you!" He laughed and gave me a big smile.. Let's keep his dream alive. It's our turn to step up and continue what he started..
I attend Liberty Christian Center and I was actually present when Matt received praise in front of the whole congregation for being a young person on the city council who was on fire for the Lord. Pastor spoke a prophetic word over Matt's life and the whole congregation prayed for him that day. Although Matt tragically lost his life I still believe his unfinished plans, his vision, and his works will soon come to pass and will be fulfilled. I'm praying that the people that murdered him will soon be caught, if their consciouses don't get the best of them and they end up turning themselves in. My heart and my prayers go out to Matt's family. God bless you all.
Our family has been friends with Matt or Matty as we affectionately knew him and his family for several years. I was actually Matt's Babe Ruth Baseball coach. Matt was the kid that would run out to the truck and grab all the gear, bring it to the field, help set up the bases, then give it his all in practice. Then when practice was over he would be the first one to help put everything away and know one would ever have to ask him, he would just do it.
He was no older that twelve years old, and I remember him telling me, "Coach, I am going to be the Mayor of Fairfield one day". There was a time when he came to the house when he was probably about 17 or 18 yrs old and Matt telling me with pride that he is working at Albertsons' stocking shelves in the evenings making $18.00 and hour. I told him, "I am sorry Matt, but this isn't going to last very long, you are a natural born salesman and you will be moving on to way more bigger and better things".
I believe he was certainly on his way to changing the world if not at least his beloved town of Fairfield. It now seems that everyone that he has crossed paths with certainly has a beautiful positive "Matt Garcia Story" to tell, from the teammate that he talked out of joining a gang to the mother he helped take groceries out of the vehicle into the snack bar. Those are just a couple of the countless others that are out there.
To the Garcia and Courtemanche Families, I know your Faith keeps you all moving forward. The whole community loves you and is here for you.
I met matt in high school, and i remember a conversation he and i had one day about how he was going to be mayor of this great city. I knew then he was going to follow his dreams. He was well on his way...Im so sorry for your loss..I know its not easy, please remember how great Matt was he was such an inspriation to all. He had so many dreams and hopes for this city, and they will countine in someway.
my deepest sympathy's.
YOULL BE MISSED MATT!
rest in peace.
I am not a resident of Fairfield, and had not heard of Matt Garcia until the tragedy that took place on Monday, and am so saddened by this loss. In reading up on Matt, he was such a wonderful human being, with so much promise and such a bright future. I would like to send my condolences to Matt's family and loved ones. You are all in my prayers.
How can we possibly honor a young man like Matt Garcia? By continuing to pursue his vision of a better community. Take this negative and make it a positive, just as Matt would have. It is an enormous tragedy but we need to make something good come out of this. I have lived in this community for almost 20 years and had never seen such enthusiam for Fairfield and those who live here as I saw in this young man. I had confidence that his young man could do great things. Now the community has to do it without him. Honor him by continuing on. We are truly hearbroken for his family and his many friends. If a man's value is measured by his friends, Matt, you were a millioniare. Be at peace.
I only met Matt a few months ago but he was a person you felt like you knew always. My deepest condolences to your family. You were a great man and i feel honored to have met you. I know you had a faith in your god and he is lucky to have you. You will be missed
Matt,
You have given our community hope. You are an example to all of us of what one dedicated young man can accomplish. You always told me "I am blessed". I think we have all been blessed having known you.
My Family thru Christ Brotha Raymoond, Sizta Teresa and and the girlz u are in our prayers, we will all miss Matt as a parent and sister, u have an emptiness that only God can heal and we pray for understanding, and change. Matt was wondeful ray of light to us all, he touched the lives of all us and will be missed but not forgotten and as long as he is tought of and remember he will forever in our hearts. God Bless U all
i had never heard of matt garcia before the tragic event. i took one look at him on the news, heard about his accomplishments and his dreams of a future he could not make come true. I am sincerly devastated about his death. I have kids older than him, he deserved to live. i believe he would have a big difference. i do not know what party he represented. it doesn't matter. he was such a good boy and a man taken away much too soon. to his family and his love. i give you my deepest sympathy. i will always remember
the inspiration for our young people. he would've made a difference. i have never been devasted by a political person. he has touched my heart so much. i am so sorry you lost such a wonderful part of your lives. again...I'M SO SORRY...PATTI MEDINA
My wife & I, met Matt on our daughters prom night. Matt & his date all drove together to the prom..Matt was a very nice & well mannered young man. I was informed of his " Murder" by my oldest son. Our thoughts & prayers are with him and his family. God Bless you Matt for the time you gave to the people of Fairfield and hopes of helping the youths of tomorrow.
To my dearest family theres something id like to say, But firstof all to let you know ive arrived ok. Im writting you this from Heaven where I stand with God above, wheres theres no more tears or sadness just eternal love, Please do not be sad just because im out of sight remember that i am with you every morning , noon, and night, When your walking down the street and you got me on your mind i am walking in your footsteps just a half step behind, And i will always love you from the heavens above we'll be in touch soon again P.S. God sends his Love.
as Matthews Aunt im appauled that you would word this as if it was coming out of his mouth.. who the hell are you? did you even know him? this comment needs to be deleted immedaitly you should be ashamed!
Jessica Rodriguez
- Former Mission Solano Employee
|2008-09-03 14:39:54
Our prayers and thoughts are with you all. Matt has influenced many lives and helped make very positive changes in our community. There are never any proper words to say when things like this happen, but we are so blessed by the legacy that Matt began and with the help of the community can be carried on. He has been an inspiration to our children and his testimony is inspiring to all. We are so sorry for the family but I also know with your faith you will find strength and comfort and you will see him again in Heaven. God bless you all....Love the Rodriguez Family
Although I did not know Matt personally, I admire his attempt to bring politics to the youth in Solano County. He was inspired to do right and to bring comadarie to the youth despite the chaotic world in which we live. Fairfield is losing an aspiring, captivating, sincere Councilman and the world is changed due to his passing. How cowardly of the person or people who did this, to gun him down in that way. Shame on you, and I hope you get caught soon. You are horrible and a despicable member of society.
Though I am not even resident of the Fairfield area, the story on the news deeply touched me. I as so sorry to the family. This was a fine young man trying to make a difference in our futures. He will be truly missed. To the man that murdered him-YOU ARE A COWARD AND WILL PAY FOR YOUR CRIME!!!
I did not know Matt one on one but knew of him. What a great kid with such positive influence on the youth ( young and old) of Fairfield. How could this happen to such a golden person? I will keep Matts family in my thoughts and prayers that they may find the comfort that they need to get through this tragedy. We were blessed to have had him in our town for his short life. I pray more kids like him will flourish and make the kind of changes he made. He touched so many people. Those in heaven are lucky to have him.. his spirit will continue to do great and wonderful things! We will forever miss you, Matt.
Cathy F
Does anyone know if a reward fund has been set up that we can donate to in order to help find the person responsible? I hope that Matt's family can find some small comfort in knowing how much he was loved and by so many, and the legacy he's left for us all.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Though I did not know Matt, I truly admire him for his quest to make a positive difference in this world and he surely deserved better. May this young man's spirit and beliefs live on in all of us he inspired. Rest in peace, Matt.
My heart goes out to his family and council family. When you hear of young men doing drugs,joining gangs, or just getting in trouble. Here is a young man who was very positive, outgoingly pursuing involvement with his community. Why is it the good die young and the waste of this generation slip by, I hope you catch this individual who did this -
My deepest condolences go out to the Garcia Family. I have never met or heard of him but was very saddened to hear about Matt in the news. It was very inspiring to hear about all his accomplishments and goals at a very young age. I will keep you in my prayers. May Gold bless you all.
I don't know you'll but I want to let you know that I am so sorry for your loss. May God go with you'll and hope that we can find great comfort in knowing there are people that loved him. ERbxR
I played Babe Ruth Baseball with Matt, I believe we were on Tri-City Glass together. He always gave it his all in practice and on the field, somehting he carried with him in school and as a councilmember. My parents always called him Flea, because he hopped around the bases so fast, like a little flea. I've seen him around town a couple times since we graduated in 2004, hardly changed a bit. Matt was an awesome guy, and had become an even greater man. In his lifetime, I'm sure he impacted more than his fair share or people's lives. Matt, I will miss you, and so will many others. And, to his family, I am very sorry for your loss. Just know that you all helped make Matt the man he had become, and he made a difference in life. Rest in peace Mayor Garcia.
I worked briefly with Matt last year at First Bank. He was so passionate about making a difference in Fairfield. My prayers go out to his family and friends.
May Matt's legacy continue and people begin to rise up against this senseless violence.
Thank you for all you did and all you tried to do.
You are our hero Matt!
Father God, Thank you for blessing this community with Matt Garcia. Father God, we lift up the community and surrounding communities that through all this that the anger will subside and forgiveness will replace it. Your word tells us to forgive that we may not be judged in the same measure.
Father God, we lift up the families involved that as they weep you will rise in them.
Father God, this community stand up and be leaders and not followers, doers and not just sayers, and believe in unity.
Father God, we also lift up the investigation that you will open up hearts and bring forth confessions right now , that the community will not hide information and not hinder the investigation. Father God we lift up the police department that they are able to solve this case immediately.
Thank you, Jesus.
We pray this in Jesus name, Amen
Matt's tragic death has hit me as hard as when President Kennedy died. Just like President Kennedy, though on a local scale, Matt had a strong political future. I met Matt last October when he was campaigning. I was at the mall, about to get into my truck, and he came up to introduce himself to me. He was so positive, polite and enthusiastic - not something you see every day. I was so impressed that I knew that I had to vote for him. Like the death of President Kennedy, Matt's death is of equal importance for the City of Fairfield. My prayers go out to his family and friends at this very difficult time.
Matt your dream has come true you are an honary mayor and forever will be MY MAYOR of fairfield. I regret putting off our lunch plans and will never be able to get that time back but i honestly believe that God welcomed you with open arms to the gates of heaven. Our life is a living movie and we are just sticking to the role God has chosen for us. The role that you played in not only life itself but in our community will never be forgotten and i just pray that God enjoys your company as much as we did. Take care MG. We will do lunch in Heaven you can count on that.
To his family, i am deeply sorry for the loss that you are dealing with, my prayers go out to each one of you individually in this time of need.
I am offering my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Matt Garcia. This is a horrible tragedy that has hit our community. You will be in my prayers
First of all, my deepest condolences go out to Matt's entire family. My prayers and all of my thoughts are with you. I never formally met Matt but we went to High School together at Armijo. I remember seeing him around campus and he was always in a good mood and smiling. When Matt ran for City Counsel, I was really surprised to see someone who myself and my husband went to school with, running. We're all the same age and it was just amazing what different roads everyone takes. I was proud in a big way to see one of our former school mates doing something good for the community and for himself. I was getting ready for work early Tuesday morning when I heard Matt's name on the television. I ran back into my room to see what horror had occurred. My thoughts and prayers went immediately to Matt and his family. I was praying he would pull through. My heart is always heavy to hear of a former class mate pass away, but this time, its hurting. May justice be served for this crime so that Matt's family may rest a little bit easier knowing this murdurer is off the streets. God bless.
I'm so glad that I was given the opportunity to see Matt grow up into a loving, kind, and selfless young man. Matt was always so respectful to me and my staff. He shared with us his dreams & visions on how he could help Fairfield a brighter and better place, not only for the youth, but for everyone in the community. Matt just loved being around people.
I was genuinely surprised and elated that he was elected as city councilman, and with his energy, drive, dedication, and charisma, I knew these qualities would carry him far in his endeavors. It is so unjust that his life was cut short, not being able to accomplish all that he set forth to do.
My family sends our heartfelt condolences to Chris Garcia, his parents, and the rest of the Garcial family. We can only imagine your pain and loss.
To The Garcia Family - As a family who experienced a violent death we are grieving and praying for you all. The shock of such a sudden death can lead to bitterness or it can allow for greater compassion and grace, even peace with time. We were able to achieve the latter with the help of our faith that our brother is with his Heavenly Father and Jesus, who died for all of us. We don't even need to focus on why, because we will know when we see our brother again in the next life. Please know you are not alone.
In memory of Matt, I just wanted you to know that although I didn't know him, I stand for his morals and beliefs. Your family should be very proud of him. I wish there were more youth Hispanic men that would have the drive that Matt had. In his memory if there is anything we can do to see his dreams go forth please let us know. Our youth need more young Hispanic men to look up to like Matt. I'm so sorry for your loss. We all feel it, even in directly, because he represented, us; all of the young Hispanic community that is trying to make a difference. He gave us all hope. Some how some way we are all labeled in a negative fashion because of our heritage and or the bad choice of few. It's easy for the media and others to forget the good of the Hispanic people, our strengths and our accomplishments. I'm proud of all of our Hispanic farm workers who choose every day to go out into the fields and work hard for a living, I'm proud of my parents who choose to come to the states to provide a better life for our family, and I'm proud of those few like Matt who made a difference. Thank you for bless us with him.
May God give you and your family peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Matt was a gift to our community. He made us all see things in the light of possibilities of what can be. He taught us to dream big and then to work for the dreams. He gave our community the gift of acceptance. He proved by the way he treated all people that all people are worthwhile and worth listening to. He was honest, ethusiastic, and concerned. We can all learn from Matt. Let's pray that as we go on without him that we all live up to his dream. His dream was that of hope and of service. I know he will be guiding all of us with his gentle spirit.
Matt was such an inspiration to many, esp. all of us growing up in Fairfield, we needed change and he had the answer! I've known Matt since the third grade and went to school with his sister and i can always remember his positive upbeat attitude. He was an amazing guy and i will definitely miss him coming into my job to shop for new shirts and ties for his job. my prayers go out to the family and we hope you make it through this loss..love you guys
I knew Matt in High School and worked a little with him through Neigborhood watch. He had a vision, and made many young adults and youth realize that you can do whatever you set your mind to. I dont know how or how long it will take me, but I want to help make his dreams and visions for this city come true. Thank you Matt for believing in everything and giving me the strength to make life happen.
I didn't know Matt, but when i saw his face on the news, I immediately recognized him. I worked in Fairfield for a short time, and I would go to the bank that Matt worked at to make our deposits. He was always very nice and attentive. I remember that. I didn't know he was a council member and working on making our world a better place. I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I didn't know him at all but what has happened to him has made an impact on my life in a way. I am very motivated to get out there myself and do my part to make this world a better place, even if it is something small. It is so sad to see such a great, motivated, good person leave so soon. My condolences are with his family and friends. I hope justice is served
However senseless the loss may seem, God had special plans for Matt and I hope that this most unfortunate incident is the catalyst to help change the situation that is pervasive in Fairfield and other cities like it. I'm confident that is what Matt is hoping right now. My prayers go to the family and friends of this wonderful human being.
Matt became an acquaintance through mary's. I met him when he was campaigning and was so impressed by him. He was so sincere and driven with purpose. He and I would often talk politics and even discussed last friday how he eventually wanted to run for president. I will miss seeing his smiling face. It is a huge loss for all of us! May god comfort his family in this horrible time.
Matt, you may be gone physically but your spirit, inspiration and motivation will live in everyone you have touched and NO ONE can take that away. NO ONE. The selfish person that has done this has only made you a hero and legend to all. I hate that your gone Matt, this city won't be the same without you. You were always so proud in your city council jacket! We love you Matt and may you rest in piece and watch over us.
The loss of Matt Garcia to the Fairfield community (and beyond) is so incredibly tragic... I never met Matt, but I know he attended many many Fairfield functions - showing his pride and support for his City - and I always thought it was great that he put so much energy into his role as a Fairfield Councilmember...his heart and soul was obviously invested in his community. And I was so impressed at how much he had accomplished at the very young age of 22... Matt's body may be gone, but he surely lives on in all the people (young and old) that he has inspired, and to the lives he probably saved by being an organ donor as well. His influence will be felt forever in Fairfield... His spirit will live on. My heart goes out to his family and friends.
MY HEART IS HEAVY WITH SORROW. I DID NOT KNOW MATT, BUT I FEEL HIS IMPACT EVEN AFTER HIS LIFE. HE IS TRULY AN INSPIRATION TO ALL, YOUNG AND OLD. MY ONLY HOPE IS THAT HIS HARD WORK IS NOT IN VAIN. I'VE BEEN TO HIS MYSPACE AND READ HIS COMMENTS. HE WAS SUCH A POSITIVE INDIVIDUAL, A GREAT ROLE MODEL FOR OUR YOUTH.
MAY GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS. WE KNEW MATT COULD NOT BE WITH US FOR LONG, FOR ANGELS BELONG IN HEAVEN.
I heard Matt speak twice at Sewer Board meetings. He was so enthuastic to be sent to a Sewer Agency meeting to represent Fairfield. I have been in the clean water field for 30 years and have never heard of somebody appreciate going to a meeting of this type. So, I remembered Matt. It is a sad loss for the Fairfield community to lose a citizen so eagar to serve the public. His potential will never be realized and I can't imagine the heartbreak his family is going through. He will have an special place in heaven and someday his family will be reunited with him in pure joy.
Obviously, God wanted you to be right there with him. Its so sad that Im not going to see your face around anymore. You had so much hope and were working on changing Fairfield. I was getting real excited to live here after 22 yrs! You are a motivation and inspiration and will always be. Even though you have passed your spirit will live through everyone. I pray that someone picks up where you left off with FF and makes your dream. Matt you were a truly blessed and wonderful man. Its a little comfort to know you will be watching us from the heavens and making sure FF is still going strong. You have motivated me so much to follow my dream b/c you have acomplished SO MUCH in your lifetime.
My condolences to family and friends. We all love you Matt.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Matt's family. I met Matt in high school and I never saw him without a smile on his face. He was definitely an inspiration to all - God bless him and his family.
It seems the good die young.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and the many friends of Matt.
Like many, we did not know Matt personally but saw him at many Fairfield functions.
He had charisma that was unsurpassed.
He inspired the young and the old.
For anyone who didn't have the honor of meeting this outstanding young man, that is your loss. He touched lives; he had amazing candor and conviction. The most important task is to carry on his work; creating opportunities for youth in a safe environment. One of his goals was to have a Police Athletics League in Fairfield. To his family I send my condolences and love, our hearts are heavy with sadness.
I am deeply sorry to hear about councilman Matt Garcia's passing. Although I never had the honor of meeting him it truly makes my heart sad to hear such a young person, with such passion who dedicated his life to better the city of Fairfield and the world in general will not have the opportunity to make a difference. When I heard about his tragic death I couldn't stop myself from crying because he was so yong and full of life and because it seems now that he's gone no one else will try to do the things he was determined to do. I have a 23 year old brother who has made it his mission to make a difference in the lives of young men by helping them change their perspective on life and by helping them realize that as councilman Matt Garcia believed, if you are determined you can reach your goals and prove people wrong. It was very hard for me to hear about councilman Matt Garcia's death because it really makes me lose hope in mankind and in the world. Please know that councilman Matt Garica and his loved ones are in my prayers.
I am so sorry for your loss. I never met Matt but I know that he was a remarkable young man who accomplished a lot in his short life. He will not be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May God Bless you and hold you close.
To Matt Garcia's family: I recently lost my mother, and I will never fully recover from that loss, and neither will you, but please find solace in the fact that he will be in a much better place than we are. Take care, and celebrate his life, that's what he'd want you to do.
I am an officer with the City and County of San Francisco Treasurer / Tax Collector unit and I just would like to send my condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Matt Garcia.
Though I did not know him personally, just a vivid glance into his world is a constant reminder that if you believe in something, always follow thru, and never let the perils of everyday life stop you. I was able to have come this far in my own personal journey, "successfully" with the likes of unique individuals like Matt Garcia who intervened early on during my youth.
Keep ya head up, "missed", but never will be forgotten.
My thoughts and prayers for the Garcia family and friends,
I met Matt several times in Fairfield and I was always impressed with his energy and his commitment in making Fairfield a better place. I was born in Fairfield and have lived here for 45 years. Matt gave hope that this town could turn its self around. He gave hope to the young, he touched so many lives in his short 22 years.
We will all miss him.
May Matt Rest in Peace
i am truly and deeply sorry for fairfields loss of such a great young man... i too know the feeling of losing someone who was such a wounderful person and loved by everyone . someone who made a drffience. he to was a victim of shooting and was takin off life support by his family. just remember hell always be in you heart and in your memories it will take your whole life to get through this but you will always have the great thoughts and memories you share with him to help keep you strong during the hard times.. my thoughts and preys go out to all his family and friends..god bless!!!!
I also did not know Matt, but his story has touched my heart. I have sadness and anger for a senseless loss of life, for a wonderful, dedicated young man. Matt was so determined to help the youth of this community and make Solano county a better place to live. I wish there were more young people like him. It is obvious he was loved by so many. He touched the lives of all who knew him and will be greatly missed. My hearts go out to all of your family, friends and co-workers.
Matt Garcia was such an honorable man, you guys raised him so well! He happened to be a good friend of mine. I was one that actually looked up to him. Most people didn't care as much about the community as Matt did. He has done great deeds with this town, and we are forever grateful. He will forever live on in our hearts. If you ever need anything i am always here to give a lending ear, otherwise... i will keep you all in my prayers.
i am 18 yr old and a father to be i have personally known matt for the majority of my life... last night wen i heard about what happend to him i refused to beleave it. and after reading the daily republic that morning i broke down crying. matt was the type of person who always saw the good in anybody and anything. he is sombody i looked up to and as a friend very proud of him..i statred thinking of the little league days and family bbqs.. and jus cried and cried. i jus recently saw matt diving and i pulled up nxt to him at a red light and told him that i was proud of him and to keep up the good work cuz he was making his city proud again...i love you brah and you have changed my outlook on life for the better...
Being 22 and also a native of Fairfield I was very shocked to hear the news from a friend at eight this morning. People like Matt are hard to come by. Although I was not a personal friend of his I knew many people that he grew up with and have seen him all over Fairfield. I work at Safeway one of Matts normal stops in which he came to visit with his postitve attitude and great huge smile. It was strange today thinking about what happened we all were devistated...We had all just seen Matt on Saturday.....Matts campaign signifies every good thing that youth has to offer. He has broken every sterotype that society has placed on youg adults. We are the future and I hope Matts legacy lives on for the safety of this town and for the fact that he was a good man. It is time for change he was right. Much love to the Garcia family and friends. All of fairfield was touched and I as a young adult am very inspired by him. He is a success he proved many wrong. RIP Matt Garcia you will be missed
i cant believe my friend is gone. if i ever needed anything matt was the first to try and make it happen. Matt, you were the kindest most loving random person i met at armijo. im truly heart broken matty..i dont understand why this happened but i know god loved you so much he wanted you closer to him..i was really proud everytime i came back home to fairfield from college to see you signs everywhere..you inspired all of us.. i know your being taken care of. well always keep you in our heart and our homes in fairifeld. my heart truly goes out to your family. matt i miss you. i wont forget you. i promise. your friend
I only learnt about Matt from the news, what a shock. I have a friend who lost her grandson on a drive by shooting and I saw the pain she had to go through. I am very sorry about your lost, but he will be in a better place with God. Please be strong on this hard time and my prayers are with yours.
While I had never heard about Matt until I saw the breaking news last night, I was in shock when they listed all he had accomplished at such a young age. He was a true hero, and will be sorely missed by his family, friends, community, and everybody else whose life has been touched by him. My thoughts and prayers are with those who knew him, and were lucky enough to have such a wonderful person in their lives. God bless, and may he rest in peace.
I did not know Matt well I saw him around town and at diferent functions. I could tell that he was a leader and was a young man who was making a difference. What a tragic loss. My heart just aches for the loss his family and friends are feeling now. May God bless and comfort you in the time to come.
I met Matt way back in high school and he was always encouraging others to do well and strive for only the best. I recall a time in class when I recieved a failing grade and his comment was "hey man theirs always next time so study".. He was such a great person to be around as he would cheer everyone up when things weren't going their way. I will always remember that great personality he had and his willingness to listen to others. I wish the Garcia family only the best in the years to come and its a true loss to the city of Fairfield. Your legacy will live on and I will always remember the times we shared as blessings. Thanks for all you did for our community!!!
This is a sad day for a lot of people. Unfortunatly I was never able to meet this young man, however, after reading his blog it saddens me to hear what happened. Of course my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. I just hope justice may fall hard and swiftly towards whomever could dare do this. He was the future for this country. May his memory live on...
This town is a small town, where everyone has to have seen every other person who lives here. His short tenure has affected each one of person here in every way. His true destiny was stolen from him, and there is no words that will return that. It is my hope that they bring these murderers to justice. Much like my good friend Reggie Infante, who was gunned down similarly. There has been too much blood on the streets, and good people are paying for it. My thoughts and prayers goes out to his family. Your son will be remembered for the goodness he has spread.
My heart aches at the same time it is filled with thankfulness. I am thankful that we were all blessed with Matt, even if only for 22 short years. My prayers are with you and Matt. As you let go in the midst of such tragedy know that Matt made a tremendous difference during his life and coupled with the efforts of those of us that are still here, his life will continue to make a difference. I am so sorry for your loss. God bless and keep you.
What an incredible loss. At 21 I could never have imagined doing what this young man did. I was to busy worrying about me. In a short time he made a difference and became a role model and catalyst for positive change.
To his family, friends and colleagues, you are in my thoughts and prayers. My only words of solace is that Matt is in the loving arms of his Lord and Savior. May you all be embraced with the love and strength to see you through on your toughest journey.
I only met Matt once, but I knew all about him through my daughter and her friends. He had a vision and a passion to turn Fairfield back into the great town I grew up in, as well as being wiser than his years. He is leaving quite a legacy for his generation to follow. My heart goes out to his family. He will be very much missed.
Matt was an inspiration and truly saw a bright future for Fairfield. He was not only a councilman, he was my friend. He will be deeply missed by all and I hope people will remember what he stood for. I was lucky enough to know him and my prayers go out to his family. May he rest in peace.
I did not know Matt, til I read his blog, and it was really something. He was right, you can do anything you want and become what you want , you just have to put your mind to it and stay on top.
My condloences, to the Garcia family , I am sorry to hear of this , i hope justice comes to the one or one's that did this, May he rest in peace.
Know that he is looking down upon each one of you, he is your Guardian Angel, he is watching over you all and he listens to you when you talk to him, keep strong, and remember the memories......, God Bless you all,
I didn't know Matt, I am from Modesto, but it breaks my heart for his family that this young latino male was taken in the prime of his life. I can only hope that the person(s) who did this will be caught. We also suffered a loss of a 26 yr old man to a senseless driveby shooting last week, 2 others were injured. Why can't people just stop the violence, it make no sense. I am so sorry for your loss.
Matt you are a strong brave yound man and I am sure that God needed you right now peace and love to the Garcia family I met you at my cousins house in Fairfield one day and you always stuck in my mind rest in peace kid and know that all the good you did made a big difference in Fairfield and all the people you shared your life and thoughts with I know that Teddy is missing you.
What a tragic loss for the community of Fairfield. I only hope that Matt serves as an inspiration for young people. There truly are not very many Matt Garcia's in the world. I did not know Matt, but he has touched my life with his accomlishments and positive attitude.
May God Bless You Matt and all of your family and friends
You have inspired me to do great things. You were so young and seemed so wise beyond your years. God blessed you greatly.
May we all come together and live our lives the way Matt lived his. Let's make a difference in our communities. Whether your are from Fairfield, Sacramento or Placerville. Start now.
Matt ~ I didn't know you, but you are amazing.
I didn't know Matt personally but I know first hand what his family is going through. 22 is such a young age to lose your life, especially when you have goals and aspirations. He has accomplished so much and his blog is ironic, less than a week before his death. May he rest in peace and his family stick together during these tough times. We need more young people like Matt Garcia
my heart goes out to all the members of his family and all who knew him he was going to do great things for the city of fairfield but now he will do even greater things in heaven. rest in peace matt garcia god rest your soul and bless your family
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Matt. I was so touched and inspired to read about someone half my age doing so much to improve his community. The world need more men like Matt. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Matt....I did not know you but your senseless death really touched my heart.....you seemed to really have a vision and a goal...too bad that you did not have time to complete. My prayers and thoughts are with your family and God must have another agenda for you now. God Bless you and rest in peace.
I have been home raising children for 4 years and never turn on the news in the morning like I used to when I was working. Well, I had my first day back to teaching this morning and I put on the morning news. I heard the name Matt Garcia and Fairfield in there somewhere and instinctively glanced at the T.V. Not really thinking the Matt Garcia they were talking about was the Matt Garcia I taught music to at Sheldon Elementary School in the late 90's. Yet there was his grown up self smiling on my screen. I never new of his accomplishments. I was amazed, proud, and devastated all at the same time. His charming 11 year old smile has been haunting me all day as I taught my first elementary music classes in 6+ years. I saw so many faces that reminded me of Matt. My heart goes out to his family.What an amazing loss.
Matt, you will forever be in the hearts of the people of Fairfield, because you were there for us when others weren't. You had such an impact on our town, and you will never be forgotten for it. I will personally miss seeing you brighten up Jamba Juice when you walk in and WANT to talk to us and know how we are all doing. Your my hero, and this Citys hero. We will make you proud of Fairfield! We will. Rest in Peace Matt, My prayers are with your family!
I only knew Matt for a brief time, but it was long enough for him to leave a lasting impression on me. He is an inspiration to kids and adults alike. He is proof that through hard work and great effort, goals are reachable, and change is possible, in this stubborn, sometimes awful world. My thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones, family and friends.
I grew up in Fairfield, I didn't know you personally, but reading about you, you are an inspiration. Your time on earth was taken too soon! You had more to do to help the Fairfield/Suisun community I will keep you and your family in my prayers, this is so very sad to hear.
Matt Garcia was an amazing kid that turned out to be an even more amazing and inspiring young adult. Matt and my little brother John played baseball together and my parents were very close with his dad brother Raymond. I always kind of thought Matty was a little bit of a showoff....but turns out he must have known what he was talking about!! =)But he always knew he did even if it took the rest of us a while to catch on. =) I know that this young man will be terribly missed by his family and his friends and also by his community. My thoughts and prayers are with Raymond and Teresa and the family. May GOD help you through this...and we will see you in the new world Matty. REST IN PEACE AND WE LOVE YOU KIDDO
I am a 42 y/o black male and I just want to say thank you Matt for living and giving back to the community. You are my role model and hero. I hope and pray the insperation and leadership you have shown will not be in vain when it is time for many of our youth to carry on the revolution of change you lived for. I will never forget your place in our society. Again you are my hero and role model for change. My condolences to your family friends and our entire society. Your life and story I compare to that of MLK, RFK, and others that have provided a service to others asking for nothing in return. R.I.P. my Brother. God, family, friends and myself are proud of you and celebrate the courage you personified.
Me and Matt were just aquaintances but him and my brother were good friends. They coached little league together and Matt would come over to the house in Suisun every once in a while to hang out, occasionaly we would see eachother at partys and what not. There was this One time me and my friends were having some problems with some friends of Matt's and he was there to quickly squash it and make things cool. So as far as I know Matt was a peaceful guy and a fresh change that this community needed.Your character is gonna rub off on alot of people in Fairfield Matt and you will never be forgotten. Peace and Love go out to you and your family from mine. God Bless you.
Remember His Accomplishments
- Remember His Accomplishments
|2008-09-02 17:16:19
I do not live in Fairfield. In fact I just moved from Houston, TX three weeks ago. But when I heard of the death of this young man I had to say something.
So many times people don't call out all the good young people there are. This young man seems to have accomplished more things in his 22 years than many in their lives.
His accomplishments should be used as an example of if you care about something you can make many things happen.
My prayers go to his family. They seemed to have raised a wonderful young man that was on a great path.
In todays U.S. where so many young people are spoiled and self absorbed, this young man had a spirit of enthusiasm and hope and determination that is rarely seen before. He dared to dream and want to change a city he loved. When others are partying, doing drugs, and doing nothing to change a world, this young man did all the right things. A very special place in heaven is waiting for Mr. Matt Garcia.
My husband and a couple of my friends met on a few occassions with Matt and they had nothing but good things to say about him. After their talk we were all happy to know that there was another Christian in office and how he wasn't afraid to let others know that he had a love for the Lord. It's so sad to see a young man taken at a time when he was doing so much for his community and an example that there are still young people that are out there trying to be a positive influence rather than a negative one.
I can still see Matt's grandmother's face the morning after the election... she was at 9 a.m. Mass, Holy Spirit, as usual. We had all been praying for Matt and for his goals... Her smile was just beaming, from ear to ear... she was the proudest lady on earth. This tragedy is just the most vile, ugly thing we have seen in many many years. May God sustain the entire family as they grieve the loss of this fine young man.
Matt I hope your life inspires other youth to take up public service in your name. You had the clear vision and intelligence. I wish you could have been Mayor and even more. Rest in Peace.
Apathy is the disease that plagues our younger generations. So easily they sweep aside a care for community. I've seen too many run away from societal responsibilities. The attitude of not caring as long as the problem isn't in your own backyard. The feeling that it doesn't really matter what you think, because no one really cares anyway. To see one of the few young people we have who did care, to hear that Matt Garcia was gunned down before he was able to affect a true and lasting effect on his community is heartbreaking. I hope that through this senseless death, by losing Matt, perhaps the youth of his generation will pick up the banner and fight for the changes Matt sought and for the promise he saw in his community. God speed and God bless you Matt.
Matt,
Although we knew you for a short period of time, you always remembered us by name and always had a wonderful smile on your face.
Heaven is brighter today with your presence but you will be surely missed here on earth.
Our condolences to the Garcia Family in this very difficult time.
I was really hoping for Matt to pull through. He was such an inspiration because you hear so much negativity about latinos and gangs. He was a young man that despite his age and race had big plans and aspirations to make his community better. I dont live in fairfield but I told his story to my boys. I want to send my condolences to his family and pray that they find and punish who ever was involved in his death.
Matt's story is very inspiring. I know how tragic it is to lose a loved one and I just want to let Matt's family know that people all over the state and nation will be with them in spirit.
Matt, I am so sorry we lost you. I taught Civics at Dixon High for decades, and you represented everything good about young people today. You were a wonderful example of a courageous, dedicated public servant, and local kids noticed - I hope some will follow in your footsteps and be bold in choosing politics as a way of helping others. Our country needs people like you so terribly right now, and we can't afford to have you gone. God bless you, Matt, and your family and friends. You were the best we had.
I talked to Matt once on in a very formal acquintance, but ALWAYS saw him around town in his suit and tie. I remember always thinking, "he sure is out and about a lot," which was wonderful for our community. All the teenagers would see him and everyone would say, "Did you see, Matt Garcia just walked by!" I'm going to miss that. It's so tagic how he was making such big changes for our youth and then this had to happen. I didnt even know him personally and I'm depressed. God Bless.
I played baseball with Matt when we were growing up in FF. He was such a great guy. Someone you would never forget once you met him. Always happy to see you with a smile on his face.
The fact that he got onto the city council and had such a vision for this town was inspiring to me and to many others. I know I won't ever forget Matt.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and all the many other people who were close to him.
My deepest condolences. I did not know Mattt personally but admired the way he looked at life. He was one to act not just sit and watch. For a twenty two old that is saying a lot. His wisdom and determination would have made Fairfield a better place.
Matt; Thank you for trying to change Fairfield. I saw you speak a while back..and was inspired that there was going to be change. How tragic that you lost your life this way. My heart-felt sympathies for your Family.
I am so sorry for your loss, my heart and prayers are with you and your family. I never met your son but the little I have read of him he was an
Angel of God on earth mission and his calling was up. He must have been needed for some special project God has for him, otherwise he would not have taken him so soon. Remember he is never truely gone as long as you have him in your heart.
I'm so sorry for your loss. This is truly a loss suffered by an entire commuinty. When someone as young and enterprising as Matt is taken abruptly in this manner, it makes everyone stop and think, "How could this have been prevented?". We're all a too late, but need to see that change takes place, so an event like this doesn't.
I voted for Matt because I wanted a change for our community. As a parent I'm sickend and want justice, but also want peace for the Garcia family.
When I first heard about this story on the radio this morning, I thought a 22 y/o council member? And then i recalled to when I was 18 years old. And I helped my friend who chose to run for city council down in Upland, California. Although I do not have the pleasure of knowing this young man and his family. I do send you my families thoughts and prayers. It takes alot to try to make a difference in our world. Especially with how society changes on a daily basis. There may not be another Matt Garcia, however his memory and accomplishments will never go away. May you rest in peace. God called one of his best to be with him.
What an impressive young man - he was bound and determined to do great things in public service. My condolences to Mr. Garcia's family, friends and peers. Rest in peace.
It is unthinkable that people like Matt Garcia can be taken from us so early in life. He was just beginning to make a difference to so many different people. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Garcia family and the Fairfield community.
