Courageous and strong: Matt Hutton

by Rhonda Dedyne

Simplicity.

"Matt’s body was defeated by Lou Gehrig’s disease, but his spirit triumphed as he peacefully and courageously left this world surrounded by his loving family in the home he built for them."

Those brief – but eloquent – words composed by the family of Matt Hutton on his passing Feb. 8 accurately express the strength of character that the young man exemplified so well during the past several years – and throughout his all-too-brief lifetime.

Matt, 37, was diagnosed in November 2002, with ALS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, most commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. As his family wrote, the degenerative motor neuron disease in the end claimed his body – but it did not conquer his spirit.

Surely, his family and friends can find solace in that fact.

The home that he constructed also serves as a testament to the faith and perseverance of the boy who grew to manhood – always enjoying physical activity, working with wood and the creative process of "building things."

Our thoughts and prayers are with Matt’s family and the many, many friends who supported him during his courageous battle. The days ahead will be difficult. May you take comfort in knowing that your husband – your father and son, brother and uncle – brings life to the words of another author who is also noted for his "simplicity," St. Paul.

For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

II Timothy 4:6-8.

A complete obituary appears in this issue.