Matthew M. Craver

Matthew Michael Craver, 16, a Wasilla resident, died as the result of an automobile accident Nov. 24, 2004, at Valley Hospital in Palmer.

A visitation will be held from 1-4 p.m., Monday, Dec. 6, at Valley Funeral Home Chapel in Wasilla. A memorial service is scheduled for 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 7, at Colony High School in Palmer. Pastor Bob Overson will officiate. Pallbearers at the service will be: Jerry Brunhoelzl, Bryan Daniels, Anthony Hastings, Jason Howe, Jake McKeown and Robert O'Brian.

Matthew was born Feb. 18, 1988, at Humana Hospital in Anchorage, the son of Michael and Christina Craver. He attended Finger Lake Elementary School, Colony Middle School and was in his junior year at Colony High School. He lived with his family in Anchorage from 1988 to 1992 and in Wasilla since 1992.

He was dedicated to God as a baby at Potter's House and was later baptized at the Wasilla Assembly of God. He worked at Grouse Ridge Shooting Club, was a left-handed bass player in a local band named "Strept" and enjoyed dirt-biking, four-wheeling, soccer, football, hunting and fishing.

His family said: "Matt was a kind and caring son, brother and friend. He had a kind word for everyone, whether they were someone he knew his whole life, or just somebody next to him. He had a unique way of lifting your spirits and making your day a little bit happier. We will never forget his dimpled smile, quirky raised eyebrows and his funny remarks. Matt never cared if his friends were around to see or hear, but would come over and give his family a hug and kiss and say 'I love you.' Matt found happiness in his family, girlfriend, friends and life. His loving and happy spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him; we were blessed for the 16 years he was allowed to be a part of our family on earth."

He is survived by his father and mother, Michael and Christina Craver; sisters, Jessica and Jennifer, all of Wasilla; paternal grandparents, Elmer and Phyllis Craver of Grand Junction, Colo.; maternal grandparents, Jack and Barbara Hothan of Farmington, N.M.; paternal uncle and aunt, Steve and Deborah Craver; cousins, Christopher, Aveyah, Aaron, and Jonathon Craver, all of Eagle River; maternal uncle, Rob Hothan of Anchorage; paternal aunt, Rhonda Moody, and cousins, Hogan and Kendra of Grand Junction; maternal aunt and uncle, Peg and Tristan Olguin of Aztec, N.M.; maternal great-grandmother, Rose Hothan of Julesburg, Colo., and numerous great-aunts, uncles and second cousins.

Flowers are welcome and appreciated at the ceremonies. Burial will be at Wasilla Aurora Cemetery, in a private service for family and close friends. Arrangements were made by Valley Funeral Home and Crematory in Wasilla.