Garrett Michael Matthias
July 06, 2018
Garrett Michael Matthias
AKA “The Great Garrett Underpants”
3/26/13 – 7/6/18
My name is: Garrett Michael Boofias
My birthday is: I am 5 years old
My address is: I am a Bulldog!
My favorite color is: Blue….and Red and Black and Green
My favorite superhero is: Batman…and Thor, Iron Man, the Hulk and Cyborg
When I grow up: I’m going to be a professional boxer
My favorite people are:
• Mommy, Daddy, my sister ‘Delcina’ (Delphina),
• The grandparents with the new house (Fredric and Cheryl Krueger),
• The grandparents with the camper (Daniel and Nita Matthias),
• My cousins: Grady, ‘that guy I took down that one time’ (Luke), and London Marie,
• My Auntie Janette and Stinky Uncle Andy (Andrew and Janette Krueger),
• Those two guys, you know, my uncles (Kristopfer Krueger and James Taylor)
• Batman!!
The things I love the most: Playing with my sister, my blue bunny, thrash metal, Legos, my daycare friends, Batman and when they put me to sleep before they access my port
Things I hate: Pants!, dirty stupid cancer, when they access my port, needles, and the monkey nose that smells like cherry farts…I do like the mint monkey nose like at Mayo Radiation and that one guy that helped me build Legos (Randy)
When I die: I am going to be a gorilla and throw poo at Daddy!
Burned or Buried: I want to be burned (like when Thor’s Mommy died) and made into a tree so I can live in it when I’m a gorilla
Big or Small Funeral: Funerals are sad: I want 5 bouncy houses (because I’m 5), Batman, and snow cones
Emilie and Ryan Matthias will honor Garrett’s final wishes by having a Celebration of Life on Saturday, July 14th from 5pm – 11pm at 2377 132nd Ct Van Meter, Iowa
Note: Symbolic Asgardian burial ceremony and fireworks will be held just after sunset
A private burial of Garrett’s ashes will be held at a later time once his parents figure out how the hell to get his ashes made into a tree and locate a nature preserve, so his tree resides in a protected area.
Donations can be made directly to the family https://www.gofundme.com/garrett-mathiasmathias-family or in Garrett’s honor to a few of the many non-profits that helped Garrett along the way: The Little Al Foundation (https://www.littlealfoundation.com), The Pink Tractor Foundation (https://www.facebook.com/PinkTractorFoundation) and the University of Iowa Dance Marathon (https://dancemarathon.uiowa.edu)
We are so grateful to the many doctors, nurses, child life specialists, musicians, art therapists, and volunteers that worked tirelessly to cure Garrett of his cancer. The reality for Garrett and so many other children is pediatric cancer is an ugly, nasty beast that leaves a path of destruction. For Garrett and many others before him – cancer kills. Those that are ‘lucky’ enough to survive endure long term debilitating side effects and the constant fear of relapse. We will fight for a cure until no other kids are robbed of their childhood, no other siblings lose their best friends, and no other parents have to bury their babies.
Garrett endured nine months of hell before he lost his battle with cancer. During that time he never lost his sense of humor and loved to tease the doctors and nurses. From whoopy cushions and sneaking clothes pins on their clothes to ‘hazing’ the interns and new staff doctors, he was forever a prankster. Nothing caught people off guard as his response to ‘see ya later alligator’:
See ya later, suckas! - The Great Garrett Underpants
Patti Miranda
07/14/2018
What a beautiful boy who had such a great sense of humor! I pray for peace and comfort for your family. Thank you for letting us know what a wonderful boy your son was and honoring him in such a way to celebrate his life.
Candy Kelly
07/14/2018
I didnt know Garrett personally and honestly just saw a story about him on Facebook, but I wanted you to know that he really touched my heart. I wish I would have know this amazing young man and Im sure although your heart is hurting you feel very blessed to have had him in your lives even if he was gone far too soon. Prayers for peace and love to you and your family. Thank you for sharing him with us. His spunky attitude was remarkable! He is a wonderful example to us all.
Jim
07/14/2018
Your message brings joy to my heart here in Australia.
Memory eternal.
Todd Olinger
07/14/2018
Garrett, some of us get to be gorillas sooner than the rest of us. Man, did you make an impact down here. I can't imagine what you're going to do up in that tree. Seriously, though, don't throw poo at daddy. Watch down on your favorite people and put some laughter in their hearts from time to time. Especially now. And tomorrow. And all the days that follow.
Kevin Y.
07/14/2018
Garrett's message reverberates deep in the Halls of Valhalla. I didn't know him, but I will never forget his spirit. So sorry for your loss.
Nicole R.
07/14/2018
Deepest condolences to your family. Rest in peace little man, what an incredible little life you had!
Rachel
07/14/2018
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful....thank you for sharing your little boy's words. He sounds like a great little guy!
This stranger sends you love. I will think of you tomorrow.
.laura farmer sherman
07/14/2018
After a while...crocodile.much love and gorilla energy.
Jayson
07/14/2018
See you in Valhalla little dude! I'll just have to look for the fiercest warrior there to find you. Just remember. He who is remembered, is never truly dead. Peace and Underpants!
Lynn Zhu
07/14/2018
My deepest condolences to your family, and the world, for losing such a funny, genuine, pure little soul. Thank you for sharing his spirit with us in Canada. May Garrett the Gorilla have a great next journey and enjoy his tree.
Gabriel Bourge
07/14/2018
The Kingdom of God has gained a great citizen super hero who will fight for all of us left on this Earthly journey.
My prayers are with all of those who were touched by this wonderful boys gift.
Kate
07/13/2018
He seems to have packed a lot of life into his five years. And so lucky he had you for parents. Thank you for sharing him with us. My deepest sympathy.
Sunni Lee
07/13/2018
I stumbled on to the story by KCCI, and as a healthcare worker, I wholeheartedly offer my deepest condolences. It sounds like your boy will live on in many many people's hearts. Thank you for sharing a tiny bit of him with the world. You raised a young superhero, be proud. And to his sister, please always remember the best days and memories. He will ALWAYS be a part of you. Sending love and peace to you all.
Pam Reposa
07/13/2018
I am so sorry for your loss I can't even imagine. God bless you all & especially Garrett. He blessed alot of people with his gifts of happiness & kindness. Love to you all.
The Rappleye Family
07/13/2018
I can only imagine your loss after seeing Garrett's beautiful spirit above.
If my son were a few years younger while he was battling his cancer he may have written something similar.
I don't know why some lose their children while some of us do not. Just know that we are all still here together, holding your hand, building you up, & wiping your tears.
- In love
Paige, Brian, Cecelia, Ryan, & Jacob