GRANDVILLE, Mich. — Hundreds of friends, family, and fellow law enforcement gathered at the Resurrection Life Church in Grandville to say goodbye to Ottawa County Sheriff Deputy Matthew Chatfield.
Chatfield passed away on Thanksgiving Day after losing his battle with stage four colon cancer. He was 39 years old.
The celebration of life lasted more than an hour as family members and loved ones shared stories of their time spent with Chatfield. They spoke about his battle with cancer, his love for his community, and his choice to protect it as a member of law enforcement.
"Matt was the picture of what every great police officer should be" said Dave Bytwerk, a former colleague at the Ottawa County Sheriff's Department. "At the core, Matt a deep seeded believer in justice and serving the community he swore to protect. As a partner, having him by my side in tough situations was always a comfort."
Chatfield was born in Onsted, Michigan, and graduated from Grand Valley State University in 1999. Following graduation, Chatfield began his career at the Ottawa County Sheriff's Department. He leaves behind a wife, and three kids.
Matthew's brother, Mike Chatfield, spoke at the celebration of life. "He has always been an exceptional brother to me, mentor, leader, and role model. He has been so many different people's hero as well throughout the years. Ultimately he is my hero and he always will be."
If you you would like to make a donation to the Chatfield family, visit any Lake Michigan Credit Union branch to make a donation to the education for Chatfield's children.
The Chatfield family also launched a Facebook page, Chatty's Cheerleaders, to help the Chatfield family through Matt's illness.
