Neu, Matthew Alexander (1961-1977)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1978 Feb 03 p. 30

Birth date: 1961

text of obituary:

MATTHEW ALEXANDER NEU

Matthew Alexander Neu, the second of four children of Nic and Anne Neu, was born in London, Ontario in 1961. The family moved to Hamilton, Ont., where he took his schooling. Because of a heart condition he was unable to walk to school, and so was pulled on a wagon. Later he went by taxi and then was taught at home by a tutor. He also attended high school at Westdale in Hamilton on a half-day basis in 1976-77. This became increasingly difficult as his heart weakened.

"Matt enjoyed watching television, especially football and hockey games. In spite of much suffering he had a real love of life. He had a beautiful sense of humour and loved a good joke. His faith in Christ led to baptism in December, 1976 at the Mountview Mennonite Brethren Church in Stoney Creek, Ont.

After heart surgery in Toronto on November 9, Matt entered the presence of the Lord on November 11 at the young age of 16 years. Yet even in his death, Matt brought Nic and Anne joy. During the time of intense grief and pain immediately after the loss of their precious son, they were able to joyfully witness their oldest son renew his faith in God. Matt had prayed daily for his family, especially for his older brother. The Neu's could only praise God for this expression of his love.

Matt will be sadly missed by his family. He was a dear brother to Mark, Jon and Heidi; and a beloved grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Neu of Cambridge, Ont., and Mr. and Mrs. Gerhard Wiebe of Vineland, Ont.