May 3, 2000 – Oct. 29, 2015
Matthew Ryan “Mattie” VanBrocklin, 15, of Sweet Home died Oct. 29, 2015 while fishing the Santiam River.
He was born May 3, 2000, in Connecticut.
He was raised in Cottage Grove and moved to Sweet Home in August 2015. He was attending Sweet Home High School as a sophomore. He was very likable and well loved.
Matthew was an avid fisherman and loved fishing and hunting with his older brothers. He always enjoyed the outdoors.
He is survived by his father, Gerold VanBrocklin, and his wife Juanita of Sweet Home; his aunts and uncles that he was raised with, Michael and wife Kelsey of Cottage Grove, Angie and husband Steve of California, Sherry and husband Shane of Dayton, Eddie and Chris of Portland, Kelly and husband Mark of Medford, Robin and husband Aaron of Michigan, Amanda and husband Matt of Michigan, who were more like brothers and sisters to him; five brothers and sisters in Connecticut; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Matthew was preceded in death by his mother, Cheryl (2009), Great-Mama Esther (2015), and great-grandfather Bert (2002).
A celebration of life is planned for 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish Hall, 1025 N 19th St., Cottage Grove. Donations to assist with expenses can be made at https://www.gofundme.com/d27zu8x8.
Sweet Home Funeral Chapel is handling the arrangements.