Obituary of Matthew Ketterman

MSGT - USMC (Ret.) Matthew C. Ketterman November 23, 1965 - May 20, 2008 MSGT - USMC (Ret.) Matthew Christopher Ketterman, age 42, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, May 20, 2008 at his home in Woodhaven. Matthew was born November 23, 1965 in Mansfield, Ohio. He was the son of Kenneth Ketterman and Mary (Fields) Ketterman. He was a 1984 graduate of Gibraltar Carlson High School. Following his graduation from high school Matthew enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. This enlistment became a career extending from September 26, 1984 until September 30, 2004. While serving in the Marine Corp he served as a Combat Service Support Chief for more than four years and a Logisitics/Embarkation and CSS Specialist for more than 15 years. His experience in logistics led him to becoming a classroom instructor for three years. Matthew's enlistment spanned the first Gulf War, Operation Desert Storm where he spent time on the ground in Iraq and two deployments in the second Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom. He earned the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (w/2 stars), Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal (w/1 silver star), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (w/5stars), Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (BSSG-1), Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (w/5 stars), National Defense Service Medal (w/2 stars). Matthew always had a love for the finer things in life. His interests included bike riding, vehicle off-roading, and bowling. He especially enjoyed the time he spent with his family including his nieces and nephew. He leaves to cherish his memory; his parents: Kenneth and Mary Ketterman of Monroe; a paternal grandmother: Elva Ketterman of Cumberland, MD; two brothers: Mark (Allison) Ketterman and Michael (Sherry) Ketterman both of Brownstown; a sister: Katherine Ketterman of Monroe; two nieces: Brandie and Breanna; a nephew: Brandon all of Brownstown; several aunts, uncles, and cousins; and a cat: Ricky. His passing was preceded by his maternal grandparents; a paternal grandfather; and a beloved cat: Lucy. Friends may gather Friday; May 23, 2008 from 12-8pm at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street, Frenchtown Township, (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of His Life will take place at 11:00am Saturday also at Merkle Funeral Service. Pastor Sam Luke of the Stewart Road Christian Ministries will officiate. Procession to Roselawn Memorial Park, LaSalle for burial will follow. Graveside services will be under the Auspices of Monroe Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1138. The family has suggested memorials be made to the Humane Society of Monroe.