Professional Obituary Writing, Delivered the Same Day

Matthew Joseph Koval

May 12, 2003 – March 15, 2024

Matthew Joseph Koval, born on May 12, 2003, in Rochester, NY, was called to his eternal home on March 15, 2024, in Wellington, New Zealand, following a tragic accident. He was the beloved son of Peter and Anna Koval.

Matthew, or “Matt” as he was lovingly known, was a radiant presence in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His life was marked by faith, kindness, and a deep compassion for others. Though his earthly journey ended far too soon, his legacy of love continues to shine brightly. We ask that he be remembered not for the circumstances of his passing, but for the joy and light he brought into the world.

Matthew is survived by his devoted parents, Peter and Anna; his brothers, Nicholas and John; his sister, Sofia; and sister-in-law, Elena. He was the cherished grandson of Maria and Vasyl Koval, and Galina and Ivan Melnyk. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, and cousins who held him close in their hearts. He was preceded in death by his uncle, Michael Melnyk.

After graduating from Penfield High School, Matthew followed his calling to serve others. For nearly two years, he ministered through Youth With a Mission (YWAM), traveling to places such as New Zealand, Kenya, Ukraine, and the Philippines. His dedication to sharing the Gospel and bringing hope to those in need reflected his unwavering faith and generous heart.

In addition to his ministry, Matthew found joy in music and the open road. A gifted guitarist, he often played for friends and church gatherings, and his songs carried both warmth and sincerity. He loved traveling, whether by car or motorcycle, and embraced life with an adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation for God’s creation.

Those who knew Matthew will remember his contagious smile, his heartfelt laughter, and his unshakable devotion to Christ. He lived his life as a true servant, always seeking to lift others up and to point them toward the love of Jesus. His presence brought comfort, and his faith was a source of inspiration to all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life service for Matthew will be held on Sunday, April 7, 2024, at 4:00 PM at St. John’s Ukrainian Pentecostal Church, 2100 East Avenue, Rochester, NY. The service will also be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to support ongoing mission work in Matthew’s memory. Contributions can be made through [link placeholder]. These gifts will carry forward the mission that Matthew so passionately lived for on earth.

Although Matthew is no longer with us in body, his spirit continues to guide and inspire. May his memory be eternal, and may we honor his life by carrying forward his legacy of faith, love, and compassion.

The family will receive friends at Miller Funeral Home, 301 West Main Street, Rochester, on Tuesday, April 9th from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Matthew will be laid to rest at White Haven Memorial Park.

Michael James Carter

January 8, 1950 – February 2, 2024

Michael “Mike” Carter, age 74, of Springfield, IL, clocked out of this earthly shift on Friday, February 2nd, 2024, leaving behind 27 bottles of ranch dressing, 14 half-used tool sets, and more extension cords than any one man reasonably needs.

Mike is survived by his long-suffering and ever-devoted wife, Carol, who somehow tolerated his antics for 52 years. He also leaves behind his children: David (Sarah) Carter and Julie (Mark) Henderson; his brother, Ron; sister, Mary; and his beloved grandchildren—Lily and James Carter (The Engineers), Megan and Josh Henderson (Troublemaker & Sidekick), and “bonus grandpup” Charlie.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Eleanor Carter, his beloved fishing buddy Uncle Ray, and at least three lawnmowers that didn’t deserve the abuse they took.

Mike graduated from Springfield High School, where his teachers undoubtedly celebrated when he finally walked across the stage. He wooed Carol by bragging that he “worked in transportation”—only later did she learn that meant driving a bread truck. Nevertheless, the two married in 1971, proving that love is sometimes blind and occasionally hard of hearing.

He served his country proudly in the U.S. Navy, where he spent most of his time trying to convince his commanding officer that fishing qualified as “tactical readiness.”

Mike retired from Illinois Power after 41 years of service, during which he stockpiled approximately 5,000 coffee stirrers “just in case.” He enjoyed hunting, fishing, fixing (and breaking) things, classic rock, tinkering in the garage, grilling burgers in the rain, swapping tall tales, and complaining about the Cubs. Above all, he loved his family and made sure they were never short on laughter—or duct tape.

He was the unofficial candy dealer of the family, slipping grandkids quarters for gumball machines and sneaking them chocolate bars when their parents weren’t looking. He never met a buffet he didn’t like, and he never touched hummus, insisting that “beans should only be baked, fried, or in chili.”

Mike left this world firmly believing that Blazing Saddles was cinematic perfection, that no car should ever be purchased brand new, and that anything could be fixed with a little WD-40.

The Carter family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the caring nurses and staff at Memorial Hospital ICU, who provided not only excellent care but also patiently endured Mike’s endless dad jokes during his stay.

Friends are invited to join the family for visitation on Saturday, February 10th, from 1:00 PM until the time of service at 4:00 PM at Parker & Sons Funeral Home, 1225 Main Street, Springfield, IL. Pastor Robert Miller will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity or your favorite bar, where you’re encouraged to raise a glass and tell a good story in Mike’s honor.