Matthew James McAlister, 27 died in a tragic automobile accident on Oct. 5th 2010 in Vera Cruz Mexico.

Matthew was born on Feb. 11, 1983 in Jacksonville, FL. to LuGene (Pieper) McAlister of Hampton, VA. and William E. McAlister of Waseca.

Matthew was employed by a large automobile company in Vera Cruz and was killed while on the job. Matthew loved animals. He had chickens, birds, rabbits, hamsters, and dogs. He said he’d have a zoo if Maria would let him.

He is survived by his wife, Maria McAlister Tepal and unborn child of Puebla Mexico; son, Stephen McAlister of Manassas, VA; parents, William and LuGene McAlister; sister, Rhonda (Doug)Smith of PA.; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

A full Catholic service was performed on Oct. 8, 2010 in Puebla Mexico and as he wished, Matt was cremated. Matthew found a home in Mexico; he loved the country, the people and the mountains around him and was loved by so many people in return. Matt was very generous and had a heart the size of Texas. He is and will always be missed by all. A light has gone out but will remain lit in our hearts forever.