Sfc Matthew James Gross

SFC Matthew James Gross, 42, of Joseph, died Feb. 25 in Hermiston. A military funeral service was held Sunday at the Joseph High School gymnasium. Burial with military honors followed at the Joseph Cemetery. Sign the condolence book at www.burnsmortuaryhermiston.com. Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in charge of arrangements.

Matthew was born June 10, 1967, in Vallejo, Calif. He was raised in a military family, living all around the United States. When he was 16 years old he moved to Joseph, which he has called home since. After graduating from Enterprise High School in 1984, he joined the Navy, serving in the Persian Gulf.

Upon his honorable discharge Matt returned to Wallowa County, working in the timber industry for several years. He then worked in draft and design for his brother, Tony Gross, at Eagle CAD Services. In July 2009 Matt entered into a new full-time career with the Oregon National Guard, in which he had served for the last nine years. During his time in the National Guard he was called up to active duty, serving in Iraq.

Matt married Tami James Oct. 2, 1994, in Joseph. He loved spending time with his children and fellow soldiers and enjoyed riding his Harley.

Survivors include his wife, Tami, of Joseph; daughters, Lisa and Kari of Kuna, Idaho, and Stephanie, Felicity and Destiny of Joseph; sons, Dakoda and Jacob of Joseph; brothers, Tony of Joseph and Timothy and Kevin of Whidbey Island, Wash.; mother, Lynne Gross of Imnaha; grandparents, Harry and Filomina Gross of Boyton Beach, Florida, and Ed and Joyce Culbertson of Ocean Park, Wash.; two grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Gross Family Memorial Fund at any Community Bank location.

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