Matthew Kyle Braamse

Matthew Kyle Braamse, 15, of Benton Harbor passed away Saturday, September 15, 2012 at his home. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Thursday at 10:00 AM at First Church of God, 2627 Niles Ave., St. Joseph, officiated by Rev. Chris Spitters and Rev. Caleb Weeks with burial to follow at Riverview Cemetery. Friends may call from 4:00 to 7:00 PM Wednesday at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph. Memorials may be made to the Braamse family, Warner Camp, or Citadel Dance & Music Center. Friends wishing to leave a condolence may do so at the guest book at www.starks-menchinger.com. Matt was born on April 24, 1997 in St. Joseph to Michael & Elisabeth (Pudell) Braamse. He was a loving, caring, and passionate person and will never be forgotten. From jamming on his guitar to making people laugh, Matt filled our days with passion, love and spirit. He was smart, yet always a goof. Matt was strong and knew how to be there for those who needed him. He will be remembered for so many things; his winning touchdowns, his amazing music, his self-taught musical skills, his crazy golf cart rides, and many pranks. Those of us left behind will always hold onto his contagious smile and strive to live a passionate life, taking nothing for granted, holding onto happiness in honor of Matthew. He is survived by his parents Michael & Elisabeth Braamse of Benton Harbor; two sisters, Jessica Braamse of Grand Rapids and Michaella at home; grandmother, Helen Braamse of Benton Harbor; grandfather, Reinhold Pudell of Benton Harbor; grandmother, Erna Pudell of Germany; as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins. Matt was preceded in death by his grandfather, Robert Braamse.