Elder Matthew Lawrence Knoop returned with honor to his Heavenly Father on Monday, April 21, 2008, while serving in the Brazil Salvador Mission.
He is a beautiful boy who grew into a beautiful young man and brought much love and laughter to his friends and family. He is a happy boy and was interested in learning about everything. He spent many happy times with his family enjoying God’s beautiful gifts. From the time he was a small child he spoke often of his Heavenly Father as if he already knew Him; and seemed, even then, to have a special relationship with his Father and a sure knowledge of his purpose here on earth. He was called to serve in the Brazil Salvador mission and left in June 2007.
Matthew was a talented athlete who had a passion for playing soccer. He was a fierce competitor and loved the thrill of competition. He played on the Park City High School 2004 and 2006 State Championship Soccer Teams and was named to the All-State Soccer Team in 2006. He was a proud member of Inter FC 88 Club Soccer, which won five State Championships in a row. He was also a member of the U.S. Development team. Once in a while on his mission, while walking the streets, Matt would engage some kids playing a small game of soccer showing them some moves as they stared back in surprise at the tall, blond American who knew their game, their passion very well.
Matthew loved to ski at Park City, Sun Valley and Jackson Hole with his family and wide circle of friends. He was a popular, friendly and outgoing young person who graduated from Seminary and from Park City High School in June 2006. To know Matt was to love him. Matt had an engaging smile that lit up a room when he entered. He was a leader and wise beyond his years. He also had a mischievous streak and loved to play jokes on his friends and his sister. We will miss his sense of humor and the sound of his laughter.
He was one of those special people who blessed the lives of those who knew him and only come around every once in a lifetime. We shall miss him all the days of our lives.
