Madison Riley Matula

Madison Riley Matula was granted her angel wings on August 5, 2010 after a valiant fight against brain cancer. Her final days were spent surrounded by family and friends that Madi had touched in some small way, throughout her short, yet very memorable life.

Known by family and friends as “Madi”, she was born October 13, 2001 in Houston, TX. From the day she was born, Madi had a passion for life. She loved the water and took advantage of every chance she had to go swimming. She was a talented athlete who loved dance, gymnastics, snow skiing, horseback riding and soccer. Madi also had a creative side where she loved doing art and craft projects which she would in turn give to family members and friends as gifts. Being the proud owner of 3 dogs, 4 cats, 2 chinchillas and fish, she loved animals and was planning on being a veterinarian when she grew up. She had an infectious smile and always loved to play a good practical joke. She was a student at Bess Campbell Elementary in Sugar Land, TX, where she was a good student and loved spending time with her friends and faculty. But most of all, she loved being with her family and friends; Nothing brought her more joy, happiness and strength than being close to the ones she loved.

Madi’s life would seem too short by many, but for those who were touched by her, understood that the quality of life far exceeds quantity of time in which you live it. Her beautiful smile could melt the hearts of those around her and though she never spoke a word, her voice and thoughts could always be heard.

Although Madi’s illness made her appear frail, she possessed amazing strength and perseverance throughout her illness. With her courage she led us to believe that each day is a blessing and an opportunity to create lasting memories.

With Madi’s passing we remind others that her life is one to be celebrated, although we will miss her everyday, especially her smile, she will always remain forever in our hearts. Through her teachings about life, we were able to create wonderful memories and it has been a privilege to be her parents.

Madi leaves behind many wonderful caregivers that provided love and support that enhanced her quality of life. Madi’s love extends to her wonderful doctor’s, nurses and caregivers. All of these special people, too numerous to mention, provided Madi with love and dignity in her life and also in her death.

Madi is survived by her loving parents, Kelli and Kenny Matula; Grandparents Darlene and Allen Carlson; Grandmother Kathleen O’Brien; Aunt Rebecca Nelson; Aunt Erin Simper; Uncle Kevin Simper; Cousins Chandler and Travis Simper; and countless loving relatives and friends.

We will be celebrating Madi’s life with a visitation on Monday, August 9, 2010 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, 13001 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX. Funeral Services are planned for 1:00pm on Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 625 Nottingham Oaks Trail, Houston, TX. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made on behalf of Madison to the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation (www.runfortherose.com), a foundation supporting brain cancer research at MD Anderson and Memorial Children’s Hospital.