It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Matthew David Kattan, a beloved alumnus of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School (STACS) and a proud member of the Class of 2020. Matthew’s untimely death has left the STACS community, his family, friends, and all who knew him in deep mourning. His passing is a tragic loss that reverberates through the halls of the school he once called home and in the hearts of all who were blessed to share in his life.
Matthew David Kattan was more than just a student—he was a shining light within the STACS community. Known for his quiet strength, genuine kindness, and unwavering faith, Matthew left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He carried himself with humility and compassion, traits that made him not only a respected classmate but also a trusted friend and role model to many.
A Life Guided by Faith and Values
As a Crusader, Matthew embraced the core values that define the STACS experience—faith, scholarship, service, and integrity. His dedication to his Catholic faith was evident in the way he lived his life: with love, respect, and purpose. Teachers remember him as thoughtful and engaged, always willing to help others and committed to doing his best both inside and outside the classroom.
In a touching statement from St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School, the deep sense of loss was made clear:
“It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Matthew David Kattan, a beloved member of the STACS Class of 2020. We entrust Matthew to God’s infinite mercy and pray that he may rest in the peace of Christ. Please keep the Kattan family in your prayers during this time of sorrow.
‘Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.’”
This poignant prayer, rooted in the Christian tradition, offers comfort in a time of grief. It reflects the enduring hope that Matthew is now in the loving embrace of the Lord, experiencing eternal peace in the kingdom of heaven.
Remembering a Beloved Son, Friend, and Classmate
Matthew’s life, though tragically short, was rich with love, friendships, and meaningful moments. He was a son who brought immense pride and joy to his family, a friend who always listened with an open heart, and a classmate who inspired others with his integrity. Those who knew Matthew speak of his infectious smile, his calm and respectful demeanor, and his ability to uplift others with simple acts of kindness.
For many of his fellow students, Matthew’s presence was a source of reassurance and support. He was the kind of person who would sit beside someone who felt alone, help a friend in need, or quietly offer encouragement without expecting anything in return.
The STACS alumni community has united in grief to honor his memory and offer prayers for the Kattan family. The hashtags #STACrusaders and #STACSAlumni have become rallying points on social media for sharing memories, tributes, and condolences, reminding us that Matthew’s spirit continues to unite and inspire.
A Lasting Legacy at STACS
Though Matthew has departed from this world, his legacy will endure. He will forever be a part of the STACS family, where the motto “Once a Crusader, Always a Crusader” carries special meaning. His memory will live on in the lives he touched, the values he upheld, and the example he set for future generations of Crusaders.
As students walk through the halls of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School, Matthew’s life will serve as a silent testament to the power of compassion, the strength of faith, and the importance of community. His passing reminds us all to cherish the time we have, to live with intention, and to treat others with kindness and dignity.
Honoring Matthew’s Memory
Details regarding funeral or memorial services may be released by the Kattan family in the coming days. In the meantime, the school community continues to pray for comfort and strength for all who are grieving this tremendous loss. Friends, classmates, and loved ones are encouraged to share their memories, light a candle in his honor, and keep the Kattan family in their hearts during this difficult time.
We extend our deepest condolences to Matthew’s parents, siblings, relatives, and friends. May you find peace in the love that surrounds you and in the memories that will never fade.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
A GoFundMe campaign was created.
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