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“Working in the field of Autism for the last year and a half, I’ve learned to appreciate even more the zest with which you approached Chris’ diagnosis, challenges and passions. Your family is, to me, and so many others, a true inspiration. Your loving ways and Chris’ cheerful spirit will impact me for a lifetime.” – Libby Pelican
“I was new to the world of special education but luckily I had Chris to induct me into the field! J … he taught me so much .. to laugh, to sing, to enjoy everyone for who they are, to smile and be yourself.” – Meghan B.
Palmer Years …
1999-2000: Chris sitting in the classroom.
What better way to get wet, Chris … Dunk Tank!
Lori helps Chris dunk Deb!
Chris flirting … What a fashion statement …
(By: Lori)
To me, Libby [Pelican], Chris will always be …
… the Taco Bell lunch date that was guaranteed to brighten my every week …
… the only person who could tease me, a new driver clunkily mastering a stick-shift, “Oh Shit, Libby, grind the gears!”, without getting punched …
… the joyful chuckles echoing across Prospect Lake as he mastered waterskiing …
… the perfect reason to be late for first period …
… the inspiration to enter the field of autism as a professional …
… a cheerful morning greeting that lifted my spirits …
… big bear hugs that warmed my heart …
… and 18th birthday party I was honored to attend …
… the best partner for early morning Beach Boys jam session in my car …
Thank you, Chris, for bringing so much sunshine into my life!
(By: Libby Pelican)
(Compiled by the Matthews and Merz Families)
Items with him at all times:
A strap – A stick – Uncle Robert’s toy cars
His Palmer High School letter jacket – Shrek doll – A water bottle
Favorite Songs
Hakuna Matata – Da Turdy Point Buck – Ba Ba Ba…. Ba Barbara Ann
Toot Toot Chug a chuga Big Red Car – YMCA – Peggy Sue
“Heather, sing sha la la. Sing it, Heather!”
Proudest Moments
Getting his letter and a standing ovation at the Palmer football team banquet
Winning a Gold medal for skiing at the Special Olympics – Graduating from Palmer
Favorite Snacks
Cheetos – Cheez-its – M&Ms
Opening Lines
“What’s my name??” (Means what’s your name?)
Then in trying to create conversation….
“Does Chris vacuum??” Where… “Bill’s store”
“Chris wipes tables.” Where…. “Josh and John’s”
“How YOU doing?” – “Gimme a hug!!!”
International Travel log
Philippines – Thailand – Hong Kong
Germany – Mexico – Canada
Chris-isms
“I’m dexy, you’re crap” ( “I’m dead sexy” from Austin Powers)
“Yeaaaah baby!” – “Hi Steve. What’s your name, Steve?”
“You’re car is SO dirty. You beeeeeetter wash it!”
“Oh Kim, she’s so cuuuuuute” – “oooooh la la” – “Zip it”
Favorite Movies
Shrek – Austin Powers – The Lion King
Herbie the Love Bug – Mary Poppins
Skills He Perfected
Bear hugs (+/- butt grab) – Air guitar
Austin Powers impersonations – Burping
First Job
Vacuuming Bill’s store
Favorite Fun
Going to recycling with Dad
Going to the carwash with Dad
Downhill or water skiing
Dancing!!
Watching movies
Cheering on Billy at soccer games
Mantra
Hakuna Matata
“The Chris Matthews Party”
October 13, 1982 – October 31, 2007
2001-2002: Chris in his Letterman jacket at a Palmer HS Assembly
(Look at the 3 kids in this picture … Hear no Evil. See no Evil. Speak no Evil.)
(By: Lori)
Please take a moment to read Chris' Obituary and Guest Book entries from the Gazette- November 2, 2007.