Matthew Shayne Brown, Jr.

Matthew Shayne Brown Jr., 18 months old, of Hartford passed away Saturday, April 24th, 2021, at Bronson Children’s Hospital in Kalamazoo, Mich., with family and friends present.

Matthew was born on Oct. 2, 2019, in St. Joseph to parents Savanna Ledesma and Matthew Brown, both of Hartford.

Matthew is survived by his mother, Savanna (Jake) Ledesma; his father, Matthew Brown; his grandparents: Pedro (Amy) Ledesma, Tonya Walker, Dustin (Stephanie) Dixon, Greg Brady, La Ronda Brady, Rose Brown, and Erika (Scott) Nearpass, all from Hartford. Additionally, great-grandparents: Ray (Tamara) Howley and Evelyn (Ron) Billings, also of Hartford; as well as many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by great-great-grandparents: Antonia Ledesma, Pedro Ledesma II, and Kenneth Basha.

Matthew loved playing in the water, riding in his remote control car, playing in his ball pit, and cuddling with his favorite stuffed fox in addition to giving big hugs, cuddles and kisses to his parents, family, and friends. His infectious smile and laughter would always light up the room. He was adored by all who met him and you couldn’t help but beg to be top on the list if a babysitter was ever needed. As a member of The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indian Tribe in Dowagiac, Mich., Matthew began a spiritual journey of honor with commencement of The Sacred Fire Ceremony on April 26. This three day ceremony honors Matthew and his parents while he is guided by loving and proud ancestors in a beautiful tradition and significant part of his heritage.

Matthew’s family will receive guests and welcome support from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 29, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 63559 60th Ave., Hartford. A celebration of life service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, April 30, at the same location. Arrangements have been entrusted to Calvin Funeral Home, 8 E. Main St., Hartford. A donation fund has been set up to assist the family. Anyone wishing to provide support with a contribution may do so in person or via the following link: https://gofund.me/54e7302f. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.