Reader's view: Man who died of exposure was loved

This is in response to the Oct. 19 article, “Parents of Marine who died of exposure in Hayward make safe ‘sober rides’ a priority,” which was about the death of a young Marine last New Year’s Day, Matthew Allen Raimer.
Matthew Raimer was my grandson. Matthew was one of those very special people who was always there for others. He always had this little grin on his face, always had a hug for me and an “I love you, Grandma.” I never will experience a hug from him again or hear, “I love you” from him.
I never will see him become a responsible and dependable private citizen. I often thought about when he married and had children of his own, what a good father he would be. He loved his nephew and niece, and they loved him. He was a hero and an example to so many.
We lost a promising life on New Year’s, and it never should have happened. When someone is dropped off, day or night, a responsible person waits to make sure they are safe.
Our lives will never be the same. I am in denial that he is actually gone. I can’t stand to think about it. I try to keep it in the back of my mind. Matthew was loved and is missed by so many family and friends.
I miss you so much, Matthew. Hugs and kisses from Grandma.
Judy Buhmeyer
Richland Center, Wis.