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Matthew Sotelo Obituary

Matt, 29, passed away unexpectedly on October 17, 2015

Matt attended Doherty High School and was on the football, baseball, and wrestling teams. He also attended University of Northern Colorado and Western State Chiropractic College. He worked in Vancouver for two years and came back to Colorado to practice so he could be closer to his family.

He is survived by his mother, Cheryl Sotelo, his grandparents, Ken and Janet Coleman, Uncle Larry, Uncle Tim, Aunt Sheri Coleman, and cousins Ashley, Garrett Coleman, and his very dear girlfriend, Amy Kozarich.

He is also survived by his father, Joe Sotelo, his grandmother Nellie Arozco and Aunts Priscilla & Christina Elliott and his friends near and far, so numerous, we just don't have enough space.

A rosary will be held at 9am with a memorial mass to follow at 10 AM at St. Patrick's Church on Monday, October 26, 2015,, 6455 Brook Park Dr., Colorado Springs, CO.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Gazette on Oct. 22, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Sotelo

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Lori Bax

June 16, 2016

I just found out tonight that Dr. Matt made his last journey 8 months ago. I cannot believe it. I was supposed to see him in October 2014 for him to close out my treatment, but he was forced out of the office that morning before I arrived by that other doctor he worked. When I saw that he had opened his office in Vancouver, I took it for granted that he would be around for awhile and I could stop by to see him and thank him for his help. I didn't know he moved back to Colorado. During my treatments, he always spoke so highly of his family and I had hoped he would have the opportunity to go home to be closer to them. I was always impressed by how caring he was, especially with my children, how hard he worked, and how much he loved helping people. Thank you Dr. Matt for being such a wonderful person and Doctor. You are forever missed, but all of your family, friends, and patients will forever carry wonderful memories of you.

Daneene Cottle

February 6, 2016

I saw Matt as a chiropractor in Vancouver. I appreciated his gentle ways and friendly smile whenever I went to see him! I suffered from migraine headaches almost weekly till I saw Matt. He helped me correct some issues and I have so few headaches now! I will be forever grateful to him for his help! I just found out about his accident and am so saddened by his loss! May the Lord comfort all those who loved Matt!

Lucas Halmo

November 21, 2015

Love you, buddy. Miss you always. Thinking about you every day.

Miss you brother!

Steven Cihura

November 21, 2015

Two things that will always stick with me are those hugs and that voice. I will truly miss hearing you say "Stevie!" Your welcoming demeanor and huge heart have made an impact that will never fade. We miss you buddy and cannot wait for the day when we see you again. Rest in peace my friend.

Linda and Mike Kiyokawa

November 19, 2015

Dear Dr. Matt's family and friends...
I was a patient of Dr. Matt here in Vancouver, WA. when I heard the horrific news today I was stunned and in total disbelief. He always had a smile on his face, was so incredibly caring, and such an amazing chiropractor! His presence on this earth was so impactful! Please know how much we loved and respected your beautiful Dr. Matt! His smile will warm my heart forever! My husband was also a patient of Matt's. We are both so sad and heartbroken for all of you!

JoAnn Wasson

November 19, 2015

Matthew-
I never had the honor to meet you in person, but I love your mother dearly. She has told me so many stories about you. You have brought so much joy and pride to your moms life. Rest in peace sweet boy and wrap your wings around your mom so she will stay warm with your touch.

Katie Benefiel (Milano)

November 19, 2015

I will never forget meeting Matt freshmen year in Wilson Hall. Such a kind, smart, fun-loving guy! I have so many fun memories of Matt. He will always be missed.

Jodi, Chloe and Charlie

November 19, 2015

It was a pleasure getting to know you through Clark County leads direct, and as our family chiropractor. You brought a lot of joy to our meetings. My kids will be forever grateful for your chiropractic skills. I am confident that they will find healing in Chiropractors because of what you did for them. (The house calls, were the best!) Thank you!!!!

Mark & Mary Ellen Vetter

November 19, 2015

Heaven received an angel and I know he will keep us all safe. My heart breaks for this loss and my prayers go to the friends and family for the loss of this great kid.

Joseph Nagle

November 19, 2015

Matt was such a great guy, I don't think I have ever know a more genuine individual. I can say that I am so lucky I got to know him and I'm thankful everyday that we met. He will be sorely missed, but in the short time he had he made a lasting effect on so many.

Derek Cisneros

November 19, 2015

"So live your life that the fear of death can never enter your heart. Trouble no one about their religion; respect others in their view, and demand that they respect yours. Love your life, perfect your life, beautify all things in your life. Seek to make your life long and its purpose in the service of your people. Prepare a noble death song for the day when you go over the great divide."

You did all these things buddy and I will be forever grateful to know that you were my friend! Not a day goes by that I don't miss you and wish I could call you. I love you buddy and I'll see you on the other side of that great divide.

Katie Aspden (Linnehan)

November 18, 2015

Even though I haven't seen Matt since college, whenever I think of all of the happy memories from that time of my life, Matt's smiling face is always there. He truly made such a positive impact on everyone he encountered.

JJ Kimmell

November 18, 2015

Matt was a brother that I looked up to. He was someone that would always take care of you. The first time I ever met Matt was at the Delta Chi house the morning after my first night at college. I had lost my keys and he spent the time he had to help me find my dorm keys that I lost, which is one of the reasons I kept coming back. All through out my time at school with him he showed me what real dedication and family was like to have. He will always have a part in growth in my life.

Lauren Cihura

November 18, 2015

Telo, your contagious smile, laugh and loving personality will always remain close to my heart. You brought so much joy to so many of us and I am thankful to have had you in my life. I am so proud of you and your amazing drive to accomplish the wonderful things you did in your short time here with us. Please continue to watch over us and keep checking in on us from time to time. I miss you buddy, love you and I'll see you later.

janet and ken coleman

November 8, 2015

To our Wonderful Grandson, From the day you were born, we loved you, we had many ups and downs, from grammer middle high school college & grad school all the sports over Colorado. Y ou always made us proud. Will always love you and never forget you.

janet & ken coleman

November 8, 2015

To Our Wonderful Grandson: From the day you were born, we loved you. We have many memories from grammar, middle & high school, collage and grad school. All the sports you were in, and we followed you all over Colorado. You always made us so proud no matter what circumstances occurred. We will always love you and will never forget you. Love, Grandma & Grandpa

Becky Grenz

November 4, 2015

Echoing the sentiments from so many others, Matt was an amazing doctor who not only healed many people through his chiropractic skills, but also brightened our days with his radiant smile and enthusiastic attitude toward life. He will be missed by many but already Heaven is a brighter place with his presence. Prayers and peace to Matt's family and friends.

Kori Hien Truong

November 4, 2015

Many prayers to your family during this time. Matt will be missed.

Matt, you will be missed. We love you, brother.

Adam & Nicole Valentine

November 4, 2015

Matt, you brought love and joy to everyone you met. I will miss my friend and brother until the day we are blessed to meet again. To your family, Nicole and I are here for you always.

With Love.

Tiffany Sidoti

November 4, 2015

Dear Cheryl Ken Janet Tim & Larry - may you all find peace together and grow stronger together. The love you felt &I showed Matt will follow him to heaven & I know he is watching you all. The work God needed him to do was just more important. There is such a huge outpouring of love for Matt as you can plainly see that's where he was meant to be & so lucky he was loved by so many & he touched so many hearts. I knew him as the shy little boy but I know he grew into an amazing man because of your love. I hope you all find peace! I love you.

Patti Lundgren

November 4, 2015

For 3 years, Dr. Matthew Sotelo had a huge impact as a Doctor and mentor to my son. At 13 my son started seeing Dr. Matt for back pain. My son is a football and baseball player. My son would see Dr. Matt every week during football season and every other week during baseball. Dr. Matt provided insightful advice, friendship and shared stories of his experiences as an athlete. His ability to understand, appreciate and respect my son for his efforts as an athlete and young man were amazing. My son looked up to Dr. Matt and not only viewed him as a respected Doctor, but a mentor. He treasured those weekly visits because he knew he would not only feel better, but could talk to him and laugh with him. My son could share his field success and Dr. Matt would be genuinely excited and proud of him. When a mentor does that - the impact is huge on our kids. Dr. Matt took time to get to know my son on a personal level that elevated his own learning and knowledge of what it meant to be an athlete, to take care of yourself and your body - but also to enjoy every aspect of playing. We miss his humor, his care and the impact he has had on our lives has been permanent. His presence is truly missed.

November 4, 2015

Matt, you will be missed. We have a lot of fond memories we have shared. You brightened our lives knowing you. Until we meet again.

Rich and Sandy Sidoti

Dr. Drew Morgan

November 4, 2015

Matt worked with me at Transition Projects in Portland. A certain memory keeps coming back to me about Matt. He had a quite elderly patient who completely crushed on him. She thought he was the bees knees and just the most adorable thing that ever walk the earth. She flirted outrageously. Despite his embarrassment, Matt took it in stride and handled it with grace and kindness. Two qualities that he completely embodied. He did so with acceptance and without patronizing. He did so with love. We should all be so wonderful <3

Sharon

November 4, 2015

Your time on this earth was short, but in that time you brought more joy to the lives of those around you than many people do in their entire life. I think of you often, you are missed.

Robyn Curtis

November 4, 2015

My family had the pleasure of borrowing Matt for the holidays while he was in Bellingham, WA. We are all sending love to his real family, he was so much fun to be around and a joy to work with.

Megyn Reedy

November 4, 2015

Matt was one of the best people I have ever met. Kind, loving, selfless. He will be dearly missed.

Chad Cook

November 2, 2015

He was one of the men I ever knew. Gone to soon from the world you will always be misse. Love you Melo Telo.

Richard French

October 31, 2015

I will always remember the trouble we caused and the fun we had. Matt was an absolute angel on earth and I'm a better man for having known him. There is no words for the pain we feel losing him but the memories we created will last forever. I will think about you everyday friend

Rodger

October 30, 2015

My prayers are with you

Sandra Alaniz

October 29, 2015

Prayers for the Family he was my Dr in Vancouver WA he always said I reiminede him of his grama . Becuse I was shor he will be miss

Robert French

October 27, 2015

So saddened to receive this news. Matt was a fine young man who I will always remember fondly.

Melissa Bolter

October 26, 2015

Sending prayers and healing to all your family and friends. All your brothers will miss you deeply. Rest in peace buddy and look down on all of us who are still here

Teresa Smith

October 26, 2015

Matt's smile and sense of humor always made my day. He helped fix me after my car accident. He would always laugh and joke with me about the strange noises I made. He was taken far too soon. We should never have to lose one of our own. Thoughts and prayers to the family that raised an amazing human being. He will be truly missed. Just glad I had the chance to meet him and be adjusted by him. May he rest in peace. We all love you Matt. Keep smiling.

Ismael & Elyn Hernandez

October 25, 2015

Please know that we're so very sorry and are sending you our love and sympathy. We hope this helps at least a little during this unimaginably difficult time.

Lisa Zaugg

October 24, 2015

Many prayers to your family during this time.

Andrew Nixon

October 24, 2015

Good-bye my friend. Everyone knows what a great friend and encouragement you were to everyone around you, and I am especially thankful that I got to share in your life for a short time.

Bruce MacDonald

October 23, 2015

Matt, I was deeply saddened to hear of your passing, and cannot express in words my sympathy for your friends and family.

October 23, 2015

Our Prayers go out to all of you! May God help the healing process!
Matt was loved by all, wonderful, sweet young man.
David & Tanya Garvin

Dylan McGill

October 23, 2015

Such a tragic loss for all who knew Matt. Such a good human being who touched so many lives. Always was a positive person. I enjoyed working with Matt at UNC and feel blessed to have known him. RIP buddy

Chrisi Lynn Lester

October 23, 2015

"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding." Proverbs 3:5. Although we may never understand why God called you home so early, I give thanks to him for allowing you to share your light and your angelic smile briefly with me Dr. Sotelo. Until we meet again...rest in peace.

sandra olivas

October 23, 2015

May your beloved rest in peace. My prayers to the whole family and may he protect you all from above. I didnt know Matthew but mary is a friend and wanted to say a few lines. Times will be hard without him but its a healing process and he is in your hearts.

Mary Hooker

October 22, 2015

May you rest in peace Matt. You we're taken way too soon. Heaven got an amazing angel. Kiss grandma and grandpa for me. We love you. Mary & Blake

Dr. Ken Boothe

October 22, 2015

I have been blessed to know Matthew through school in Oregon, the world lost one special person! May God bless his family and keep his memory and spirit of caring alive in all of us.

Mike & Claudia Sidoti

October 22, 2015

So sorry for your loss. May he rest in peace

David Pinto-Carpenter

October 22, 2015

You constantly inspired me with your positive spirit and drive to succeed. Teammates on the field and lifelong friends off. You will be missed...I will try my best to live up to your positive example. I'll see you again one day buddy.

Jim Kayko

October 22, 2015

Joe, I cannot express how deeply sadden I am to hear about your Matt's passing. We have spent many hours talking about our sons and although I never meet Matt I felt I knew him through you and I know how proud you are of him and his accomplishments. I just want to tell you that you and your family are in my thoughts prayers. Jim

Kris Feil

October 22, 2015

Matt, may you have peace on the other side and may your family and friends find comfort in your memory. You will be missed greatly by all of us!

Rachel Knight

October 22, 2015

Some of the happiest years of my life were spent with you by my side. I was blessed to be loved by you, and to love you in return. You will be missed by all who knew you.

Jason Cheng

October 22, 2015

Rest in peace my friend. It is an honor to know you and have spent the toughest and yet the most rewarding three years of my life with you at UWS. You will be dearly miseed.

Laurel Yancey

October 22, 2015

We all were lucky to know you.

Teresa Bonawitz

October 22, 2015

Your beautiful smile, twinkling eyes and kind heart will always be how I think of you.

Debbie Wharton

October 22, 2015

Our friendship was an instant one, you came into our lives fast and full of fun. You became a part of our family during your short stay in Bellingham ♡ you brought so much love and laughter into our lives, from the Thanksgiving with the Stremler family to New years day Polar plunge you were always full of fun and surprises. This world lost a beautiful soul, but the nights got brighter as you now shine down on all of us. Fly high my friend until we meet again. Justin, Debbie & Alyk.

You have our hearts with you throughout eternity.

Jadia Ward

October 22, 2015

How does one put into words what Matt did for others? He was so admired for his kindness and genuine goodness. An athlete and amazing person inside and out. His will be very busy with his white wings . . . soaring and living on as a guardian angel to those he loves most deeply. Many blessings on your missions, wonderful friend, Matt!

Brittany Torrence

October 22, 2015

I remember how much fun we had Senior year of high school doing the homecoming routine. You were always so sarcastic and full of life. It breaks my heart that you are gone from this world. I pray for your family and friends as they struggle to cope with losing you.

Mandy Hilkey

October 22, 2015

Matt was one of the most kind hearted guys I ever knew. He wasn't only my very good friend he was like a brother to me. Life won't be the same without. Rest in peace my friend.

Joe Sotelo

October 22, 2015

When I think of what a wonderful man you grew to be, I beam with pride. Your life will be celebrated by your works and the friends you touched with your light. I love you son. Forever.

T. Johnson

October 22, 2015

Prayers for Peace for Matt's family. So sorry for your loss.

Cheryl Sotelo

October 22, 2015

My beloved son my angel in heaven. You were so loved by so many I know you have Angels wings helping us down on earth just know I love you and miss you and I will have you in my heart. Until we meet in heaven .

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