Mattias Burrows

Mattias "Matt" Burrows, 49, of La Crosse, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep due to a medical complication.

Matt was born September 4th, 1975 in Wabasha, Mn and grew up in nearby Minneiska. He had an idyllic childhood with a group of neighborhood boys who spent their time exploring the woods and the Mississippi River. They were best buddies who went on daring escapades and sometimes, even found a little trouble. Matt attended Goodview Elementary and graduated from Winona Senior High School in 1994. He enlisted in the Army and so began his lifelong pride and dedication to the military. His commitment to his country continued with his work on the Arizona border patrol. He loved his fellow soldiers deeply and the bonds he formed with them were unbreakable. His time in the military was always held dear to his heart.

Matt was a kind and adventurous soul whose love of family and friendships were strong and true. He had the unique ability to make anyone feel at ease. Most of all, he will be known for his infectious sense of humor. Matt was always willing to participate in any shenanigans that he and his friends dreamt up. He did not want to miss a moment. His friends say he was always happy, so much fun to be around, and loved to joke or play (very well thought out) pranks. If you knew Matt, you have a great story to share. A family memory would be the time he was babysitting his young nephew on Halloween night. The parents came home to find the sitter had transformed himself into a crazed clown, straight out of a horror movie. Holding their son was a deranged clown with an evil grin. His nephew loved it and couldn't stop giggling! We will miss his sarcasm, his laughter, and the way he could light up a room with his presence.

Matt is survived by his daughter Claira, sister Jennifer (Terry), brother Taje (Laura), nieces Kayla (Oli) and Gretchen, nephews Ethan and Sawyer, and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents Carol and Lee, brother Karl, and cousin Spencer.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, April 18th starting with a gathering at 1:00 and military honors at 1:30 Blaschke Schneider Funeral Home-1501 West Avenue South, La Crosse.

A reception will immediately follow at the VFW-630 6th St. South, La Crosse. All family and friends are invited to celebrate his life and legacy of kindness, humor and dedication. His spirit will live on in the stories we share and the memories we hold close to our hearts.