Matthew Robert Katsur

Matthew Robert Katsur, 8, son of Robert and Bonnie Katsur of Wasilla, died Oct. 4, 2011, from complications due to acute lymphocytic leukemia.

Matthew was born July 19, 2003, at Providence Hospital in Anchorage. He was a second-grader at Iditarod Elementary School in Wasilla.

A memorial service is scheduled for 2 p.m., Oct. 8 at Wasilla Bible Church. The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to HeartReach Center, 924 Leather Leaf Loop, Wasilla, AK 99645.

He was an inspiration to all who knew him with his quiet demeanor and joyous spirit; he was truly a special child. Although Matthew was a “special needs” child with Down syndrome (he was sensitive to being touched), he excelled at touching the lives of all he encountered in a special way. He never spoke a word, yet he communicated God’s love openly and freely to all those around him.

“We are going to miss Matthew greatly, yet we are comforted in knowing he is today in the embrace of Jesus Christ, our Lord,” his family said.

Surviving are his brother, Peter; sister, Jennifer and her husband, Peter Barnes; sister, Rachel; brother, Joshua; grandparents, Richard and Marilyn Countryman; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who will miss him very much.

Preceding him in death were grandparents, Joseph and Julia Katsur.

The family would also like to acknowledge the care and love he received from his speech, physical and occupational therapists, as well as his teachers. Thank you for all you did for him. The family would also like to thank the emergency staff at Mat-Su Regional and Providence hospitals for theirs efforts in trying to save his life.