2/25/2004
Matthew Scott "Demo" DeMaria was born on October 3, 1982 in San Diego, California
the son of Gary Wayne and Bonnie Kay (Mosher) DeMaria.
He was raised in Knoxville
and graduated with the Knoxville High School Class of 2001. During his grammar school
years, Matt played little league and ran track, he also played tennis in high school.
Following graduation, Demo enlisted in the National Guard. He spent time in Kentucky,
Maryland and Germany before being stationed at Camp Dodge. He was currently serving
with the 365 5th Maintenance Company and was working as a paint technician. He was
very proud to serve in the National guard and had received the following commendations;
The Army Service Ribbon, The Army Achievement Medal, The Leadership Ribbon with
Torch, and The Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon.
Demo loved life,
he enjoyed hanging out with his friends and spending time with his family, and he
always lived every day to its fullest.
Matthew passed away on Wednesday, February
25, 2004 at the Iowa Methodist Hospital, in Des Moines, at the age of 21 years,
4 months and 22 days. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Raymond and Lois Mosher and Tony and Mary DeMaria.
He is survived by his parents, Gary and Bonnie
DeMaria of Knoxville; sister, Melissa Sue DeMaria of the home; sister, Angela Sue
Gates of Sequim, Washington, brother, Tony James DeMaria of Chariton and his special
nieces and nephews; Sophia, Ava, Guss and Ryan and many other family members and
friends.