You are invited to attend the memorial service in honor of Matt on:
Friday August 19, 2011
1:30 pm
Eastside Christian Church
2505 E. Yorba Linda Blvd.
Fullerton, CA 92831
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:
The Armstrong Memorial Fund
Donations can be mailed to the church address.
Matthew Patrick Armstrong 
To the Armstrong family…. I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that your Acacia family is here for you.
Please remember the good times and feel the love that is shared with all of the memories to come.
A friend of mine suggested this camp they may be beneficial to your family http://www.comfortzonecamp.org/.
– Christy Carter
Matt, was a wonderful teacher, Coach, and I am glad I had the Privilege to work with him. I will pray for his families strength through this very difficult time….
We will be praying for all of you!
Tami and family,
I heard the news from Lori yesterday. I’m so sorry. Praying all of you.
Love, Kathi
Hey Tami,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Love,
Jeanne (Sloam) Slomanson
Hello Armstrong family I love you guys so much! I’m praying for you guys!! Katy if you need anything just call me girl:):):) LOVE you beans,nikolai,tami!
LOVE,
ELLIE
With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, the Equitz family sends our prayers and love to you all. May our Lord comfort and hold you close at this difficult time.
Matt was a wonderful friend and person. He loved God, his family, and friends. He will be greatly missed by all. May the Lord Jesus Christ comfort Tami and the kids. They will need our ongoing love, prayers, hugs, and support. Matt touched a lot of lives and leaves such a positive legacy. I thank God for our friendship. Goodbye for now-until we meet again with Jesus.
My thoughts are with The Family …A very sad time, i am from England and recently lost my brother due to cancer, i am praying for the Armstrong Family..God Bless
You are in our thoughts & prayers. We love you & your family! May God give you peace & strength for each new day. -Jim & Jeanine Le Shana
We have loved-on your family for years and worked side by side with you all in Children’s’ ministry, and as educators. We are deeply saddened and surround you with love and prayers, for the comfort of the Holy Spirit.
We are so sad with you – Matt was one of the nicest people and he will be greatly missed around Eastside. Our prayers and support are continually with you.
Tami,
Tracy shared the tragedy that has happened in your family. You have been on my heart ever since. Praying for strength, comfort, wisdom and support for you and your children. May you sense God near you like you have never felt Him before.
With sympathy and sincerity,
Barrie (Jones) Wilson
Know that I am lifting you guys up to our BIG God in fervent prayer!
I am very sorry for your loss Tami and family. Praying for peace and comfort at this time. I can’t imagine what you are going through and have been very sad for you.
Our world has lost a wonderful man who impacted many young lives in a positive way. He will be missed. May my prayers of support for you and your children be a comfort in this sad and awful time. I thank God for Matt’s contribution to Emma’s life. We feel blessed to have known him. My heart is heavy for you all. Let your good memories comfort you.
Tami and kids,
We send our love and prayers for you all at this very sad time – we know that Jesus is holding you all very close & will give you His peace. Love, the Dekleine Family
Prayers being sent for your family.
Tami, I just read about your loss of Facebook this morning. Please know that our families thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time. Matt is with Jesus now, but it is hard for those who are left behind. We will pray for your family and your heart during this time as you learn to do life without your husband and helpmate. If you need anything, we are just down the street! Laurie and David Thurman
We have been heavy hearted when we heard about Matt’s departure from this Earth. We are praying for you and the family at this deeply difficult time. May God’s wings carry you when you feel that you cannot walk, my God’s presence comfort you in your loss and may God’s tears heal your wounds as He cries with you. ~Love, the Hunt Family
Tami, please know that we are praying for your and your kids. You are heavy on our hearts.
Matt was one of the kindest people I have ever known. We will pray that the family finds support and comfort in knowing how loved Matt was and how much Matt loved others. We will miss him and comfort ourselves with all the great memories. Love, Marla
Our hearts are heavy. Matt meant so much as a coach, mentor and friend to our daughter Jordan. For that we loved him. God be with all of you during this time of grief and always thereafter. The Murcia Family
“When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure”
With deepest sympathy in your loss,
Love and Friendship,
Beverley & Monica (Pina)
Dear Tami –
There’s really nothing to say that doesn’t sound trite, but I really do believe that God is a Redeemer of our brokenness and pain. Love and prayers to you and your kids. We are so very sorry.
Lori and Greg Anderson
To the Armstrong family and friends,
I have been fortunate to know the Armstrong family most of my life. And what
a wonderful family you are. Your loss is heartbreaking. Please know that my love and prayers are with you at this time of great sorrow and always. I love you all.
Kelly
I met Matt thourgh Fullerton high school tennis. He was great with the kids and always had a kind word for each of the players. He will greatly missed.
Both of my daughters knew Matt. He was my oldest daughters tennis coach and my youngest daughter had a math class taught by Matt. When I would see Matt in the office at Fullerton High School he always would take the time to ask me how the girls were doing. He was genuinely interested in them. He would bring me up to date on how his family was doing as well. This interest and care was indicative of the kind of teacher that Matt was. He was always more than willing to help his students. I really appreciated those qualities bout Matt. I will miss him. I am praying for you Tami and family. I know that there really are no words that can be said to lessen the grief you feel but I hope that you will be comforted in knowing that we are praying for all of you. Stephanie Miles
We, at American Martial Arts Academy, send our deepest sympathies and condolences to the Armstrong Family. We were honored to get to know Matt over the past few years- he will always be a part of the AMAA Family.
Let us know if there is anything we can do for Nikolai, or the rest of the family, to help during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Armstrong Family.
I am very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with Matt and the entire Armstrong family.
We just heard the news today. Our hearts are deeply sorry for what has happenned. Praying for God to heal your broken hearts and surround you with His presence.
Karen and the kids and I are keeping you in prayer…we stopped by today Tami, but you were not home…we had a nice talk with Rich Liem. We will be at the memorial. God Bless you and your family, may God always remind you that Matt is in the arms of Jesus…we will see him again soon!
My son had Mr. Armstrong as a teacher and a coach and had only good things to say about him. I am SO SORRY for your loss. I am praying that you may find peace during this awful time. I feel so sad about this situation….and am frustrated that you have to go through this. I wish I could make it all better for you.
Wishing you peace,
Karen
My heart goes out to the Armstrong family. Fullerton High School and the math department will not be the same without him. Matt talked about his girls often and I will miss those talks at our Friday math department luncheons. Please know that Matt was loved by the students at Fullerton and will be truly missed both in the classroom and on the tennis court. I will keep you all in my prayers during this extremely difficult time.
Armstrong Family,
I didn’t know Matt well as he was an “upper classman” at Fullerton High School while I attended. My impression was that he was very nice and an excellent tennis player. Years later, it was such a pleasure to learn that he was in Fullerton, teaching math and coaching tennis at our Alma Mater. It was also a joy to meet his family and work with Tamra on the Father/Daughter dance at Acacia. I hear from so many people that Fullerton has a unique sense of community. Clearly, the Armstrong family has given so much to this community over the years. I hope that the love you have invested comes back to you tenfold today and always. Sending you love and blessings.
Denise
We grieve with your family and lift each of you in our prayers. We appreciate all the times you’ve opened your home to Lulu and hope you know that we’re here to support you. Much love, Snyders.
I have fond memories of Matt as, “the cute boy that lived up the street” We just reconnected via Facebook and my first thought was how handsome is he? My heavy heart goes out to the kids and family. “Rest in Peace” Matt.
Tami,
Your loss is heartbreaking. I have been thinking of you and your family constantly, hoping that you are being comforted by your loved ones and close friends. Please know that even the people who didn’t know you well are here for you. Sending you love and support from the Spidell family.
Matt was a good friend and I am deeply saddened by his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family during this difficult time.
well wrtten Mr. B … I saw you at the ceremony today but you were talking to some of the other fuhs teachers so i didnt get a chance to say hello =)
So sorry to hear about your loss, I remember Matt from Elementry school.I will be praying for you and your kids as you go through such a heartbreaking time.
RIP Matt
Matt was a wonderful and kind man. I have been so touched reading the notes left by so many upon whom he had such a positive impact. I pray that his family finds peace and healing.
To Tami and the children, We are so sorry for your loss. We are praying for you.
Matt taught a couple of rooms down from me, and although we’d just see each other in passing, he always had a smile on his face and would always have something kind to say. We’d often compare notes on what life was like raising three kids, and when my own father was very sick, he would go out of his way to see how I was doing. I will never forget that. Matt will be deeply missed by his FUHS family, and I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. May you find comfort and peace in knowing that Matt was well respected and that he touched so many lives with his compassion, kindness, and grace.
Tami and family: My heart breaks for you. I didn’t know Matt well, but I have loved you most of your life, and your family as well. May God be your comfort, healer and friend in the long days ahead. Loe, Mary Perry
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love, Stacy John & Ally Laird
Tami, Tom and I plus family are praying for you and the kids. I have known you for so many years with our kiddos. My heart aches for what you are dealing with but know you will have Gods strength to hold steadfast. Love and prayers plus Gods arms wrapped around you my sweet friend. Peace to the family, Love The Chestnut Family, Tom, Kathy, Shannon, Karen and Jared.
Dear Armstrong Family:
I hope the gift of the passage of time will bring you all peace and allow you to dwell on the happy memories. You do so much for others in our community. Our thoughts are with you now.
The Garden-Shulze Family
I was absolutely devastated by the news that my gregarious and fit cousin Matt had passed away last week. I will always remember his jocularity in the presence of myself, Scott and Dave throughout past family events.
My heart goes out for Wife, Children, Brothers, Sister and to parents Joan and Dave. The Nashes love you all and will continue to keep you all in our prayers. I can only offer this one small comfort …..Jerry Nash will be showing Matt the ropes up there in heaven.
To Tamra and the children,
We were incredibly shocked and saddened to hear about Matt’s sudden death. Cannot even imagine how difficult this time must be for you all. You are very much in our thoughts and prayers.
Love from the Barnett Family (Mathew, Kris, Maddie & Elise)
Matt Armstrong was a great teacher and coach, and an even better person. I’m very devastated by the news and wish his family the best during this difficult time .
Tami and family,
We just heard the devastating news of Matt’s passing. Our hearts break for the loss of this devoted husband, father, son, teacher, mentor and friend to so many. We know that the powerful love and strength of your family, friends and the Lord will be a great comfort to you during these tough times. We pray that your hearts heal, your memories are joyous and you find peace once more.
With love….Suzie & Rick Balentine
Armstrong Family, Our deepest condolences. We send you our thoughts and prayers, and hope that God’s comfort will support you through this difficult time. We miss our Eastside family and wish we could be there to support you.
Love from the Kirsch Family. (Jeff, Monique, Zach, Zoe, and Zane)
Matt was a role model to all that knew him. He was the most giving,caring and loving person I knew. I always wished I could be as good a husband, father and teacher. He dedicated his life to his wife, children and family. We will miss his gentle soul. We love you Matt and know you are holding hands with our beloved Nana, Mother, Father and all the family that has sits in heaven waiting for all our family to come. I will pray for you, your wife and children now and forever.
Love from The Dominic Liuzzi Family
Dear Tami and Family,
I am heartbroken for all of you.
Praying for you.
Literally asking God for His peace that passes understanding, that you are comforted by His hand extended through so many who love you, Matt, and your family.
Judy Wedemeyer
Matt and I played tennis together in high school,If memory serves me correctly,he used to run me all over the court…of course he was two years younger. I am deeply saddened and my thoughts and prayers go out to the Armstrong family.
We as a family are mourning the loss of Coach Armstrong. Countless hours on the tennis courts for Anna & Kyle, many math classes for Katie, we enjoyed our time together. Thank you for sharing you husband & father, he will be missed.
Jean Bernhard, Anna, Katie & Kyle McDorman
Coach Armstrong Im going to miss you so much!! Im so happy you pushed m in every thing like in tennis and geometry during the summer thank you for all your help! Have a beautiful life now in heaven! You and your family will be in my prayers! Rest in paradise!! Love always Celene Aguirre
Tami,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I can’t stop thinking about you and your family. You are in our prayers. May God comfort you and the kids during this time.
The Hansen Family (Bryan, Chelsea, Blake, Amanda & Lauren)
We are forever grateful for the work that Matt put into teaching young kids at Eastside Christian Church. He was such a blessing to our boys and so faithful to share Gods love! We loved to get into the car after service and listen to Jackson share what he had learned from Mr. Matt. He will be missed as a Christian leader, teacher, coach, and as a friend. Tami..we are praying for you daily and we will help you through this difficult journey any way we can. Hold tight to your faith and the memories of Matt~he really was a special man. With much sadness, The Flye Family (Kevin Darcy Jordan Jeremy Jackson & Justin)
Dear Armstrong Family,
Our family will be holding you up in prayer in the days, weeks and months to come.
May God’s Spirit bring ultimate peace and hope to all of you.
Roy, Kristin, Kyle, Ryan, Elyse and Timothy Sumarsono
To the Armstrong Family,
We are so sadden to hear about Matt. Know that we are praying for you and your children. We are praying that God continues to place His loving arms of comfort around you now. May God surround you with the peace that passes all your understanding, giving you the strength and hope in the coming months. We didn’t know Matt that well, but we are all apart of God’s family to help each other along especially during hard and painful times. We will see you at our Sunday lunches to love on you and the kids.
The Avanzino Family (Wendi, Dave and Natalie)
Matt and I played baseball together when we were early teens…I pitched, and he was my catcher. We had many sleepovers at my house during the summer of 1978. He was always very cordial, kind to my parents, and soft-spoken. Just a great guy! Later in life, he was my daughter’s teacher at FUHS. I reconnected with him a few years ago when he came out to some Fullerton Flyers games. It was great to see my old friend.
He will be missed, and my prayers go out to his family.
Rest in peace, my old friend! Be ready for me when I get there, and we will play catch!
Ed
Coach Armstrong was a coach to my oldest sister, youngest brother and I. I had learned so much from him and am forever thankful for the four years I have got to know him. I pray that during this difficult time you will find comfort in family and friends.
May you all be blessed.
The Pham Family
The ArmSTRONG family! You have recently entered my life and I am extremely grateful, for I have gotten to work with such talented young ladies and have seen much growth! Mrs. Armstrong, you are so kind and sweet. I love you all. I have prayed and will continue to pray for your beautiful family. Love, diamond
Matt and I attended church, junior high and high school together. We had a lot of fun growing up with our mutual friends during that time, especially junior high. He was always so kind and had such a gentle, sweet demeanor, not to mention, a remarkable smile.I can’t express enough how deeply saddened I am by his passing, but feel so blessed to have known him. I hope that your fond memories of Matt will bring you peace and comfort during this sad time. You are in my thoughts and prayers Armstrong Family.
Rest in peace, my friend. Thank you for the memories.
~Elisa (Garcia) Lee and Family
In high school Matt was always the person with a smile on his face & a kind word to say. This seemed to continue throughout his life. The few times I’ve seen him in the last couple years …..there’d be that smile! My daughter told me that he was the only teacher who’d go out of his way to talk to her & make sure everything was ok. She so appreciated him for that!
You don’t know me Tami & I’m sure what I’ve shared won’t ease your pain…nothing much will right now. But know that we’re all praying for you, the kids & the rest of Matt’s family! May God’s arms wrap around you to fill you with the strength & comfort that you need to get through this tragedy.
We’ll all miss you Matt! Save a place for us ….Love you!
– Nancy Spencer
Dear Tami and family,
I have thought of you all so much this week and prayed for all of you. Words seem so insufficient for what you are all going through. Bill and I are so saddened by your loss. We will be praying for you and the kids that God will be so real to all of you as He carries you through this.
With Love and Sympathy,
Bill, Julia, Cole and Grant Rosner
Dearest Armstrong Family, For many years i taught at FUHS with Matt. Often we spoke, always he was ever kind, ever encouraging, and ever positive. He was blessed with a beautiful spirit that immediately lifted my spirit. He talked so encouragingly about his tennis students, ever bringing light to the conversation. I know how pleased God is with the “glad heart” of this wonderful man. I am praying you all will be blessed, all will feel the comfort of the Lord.
My son was in Matt’s geometry class. He worked with him in class and during lunch as needed to help him succeed in the class. He also was quick to respond to my numerous emails. He was a great teacher who really cared about the kids. May you find comfort in knowing how he made a difference in so many young lives. He will be missed at Fullerton High School. Our prayers are with you and your family.
For the Family and Friends of Matthew Patrick Armstrong
As you huddle around the torn silence,
Each by this lonely deed exiled
To a solitary confinement of soul,
May some small glow from what has been lost
Return like the kindness of candlelight.
As your eyes strain to sift
This sudden wall of dark
And no one can say why
In such a forsaken, secret way,
This death was sent for…
May one of the lovely hours
Of memory return
Like a field of ease
Among these graveled days.
May the Angel of Wisdom
Enter this ruin of absence
And guide your minds
To receive this bitter chalice
So that you do not damage yourselves
By attending only at the hungry altar
Of regret and anger and guilt.
May you be given some inkling
That there could be something else at work
And that what to you now seems
Dark, destructive, and forlorn,
Might be a destiny that looks different
From inside the eternal script.
May vision be granted to you
To see this with the eyes of providence.
May your loss become a sanctuary
Where new presence will dwell
To refine and enrich
The rest of your life
With courage and compassion.
And may your lost loved one
Enter into the beauty of eternal tranquility,
In that place where there is no more sorrow
Or separation or mourning or tears.
– John O’Donohue (1956- 2008)
Thinking that Matt may be of Scottish/Irish decent, I thought of O’Donohue, a Celtic poet and priest. Matt’s premature death is a great, great loss. His productive and passionate life, however, left us with many lessons, some already learned and others yet to be.
Tamra and Nikolai, we love you and are here for you.
xoxoxo,
Sylvia & Joseph
We are thinking of you and praying for all of you. Know that your family will be carried in the days, weeks, and months ahead by God’s insurmountable grace and love. Kirby & Suzanne Kammer
You are being held up in our every thought and prayer. May our wonderful and gracious Heavenly Father guide you, comfort you and be ever so near to you, and your precious children, today and in all of the days to come!
With much love,
Andi and Keith McGlothlin
We love you all very much and are so very sorry for such a great loss. We pray that the Holy Spirit will be above and below you, before and behind you, within and around you. We pray that you feel Jesus’ strong, comforting arms wrapping around you and giving you a soft place to rest as you grieve and work through these extremely tough and difficult times. We are here for you in any way you need, be it for a play date, or for meals or to help with rides to school or for anything else you need. We love you guys and are praying for you and are here for you for anything you need. Love, Chris, Kris, Zach, Sarabeth, & Cole.
Tami,
Our prayers and thoughts are with you daily. We Love You and pray for God to hold you in the shelter of His Wings right now!
Love, Mike & Debbie Boon
My deepest thoughts and prayers are with the entire Armstrong family at this difficult time.
Love
Marilyn Calentino
Dear Tami and children,
We are so very, very saddened to hear about the loss of Matt. We will keep you in our prayers each and every day. Please know that you are loved by many people, and that we are all here for you. God bless you.
Love,
Amy and John Kremer
Sarah and Emma
Tami, My heart still aches for you and your family. It is hard to believe it has almost been a year, but there is not a day that goes by that I don’t think about you guys. Hold each other close.