In Loving Memory of Lawrence Matthew Brennen Jr.
Forever Loved, Forever Missed, Forever Our Warrior
Lawrence Matthew Brennen Jr., who went by Matthew and was affectionately known to many as
“Shorty,” was a loving father, son, brother, and friend whose kindness and generosity touched the
lives of so many. He was a hardworking man with a heart of gold, someone who would give the
shirt off his back to help anyone in need, whether they were family, a friend, or a complete
stranger.
Above all, Matthew was a loving and devoted father to his four children, Jacob, Mia, Monica,
and Carston. Being their dad was one of the most meaningful parts of his life, and the love he
had for them will forever be part of the legacy he leaves behind.
Matthew grew up on 9th Street in Carpinteria, where childhood friendships turned into lifelong
bonds and friends became family. Those who knew him as “Shorty” knew his loyalty, generosity,
and the kind of person he was. His roots ran deep in Carpinteria, where he was surrounded by a
large family, lifelong friends, and a community that loved him dearly.
Growing up, Matthew enjoyed playing football, fishing, and spending time at the pier catching
crabs. He loved working with his hands and was always building, fixing, or creating something
new. His family often joked that he was the male version of Mary Poppins because somehow, no
matter what anyone needed, he always seemed to have it. With his toolbox in hand, he was
always ready to help. Whether something needed fixing or someone simply needed a helping
hand, Matthew was the person everyone could count on. He never expected anything in return.
That was simply who he was.
As the oldest of seven siblings, Matthew was more than just our big brother; he was our
protector. He was someone we could turn to, someone who looked out for us, and someone who
always wanted to make sure his family was okay. No matter how old we got, he would always be
our big brother. The love, protection, and memories he gave us will remain in our hearts forever.
Matthew was a Warrior. He was strong, resilient, hardworking, and determined, but his greatest
strength was his heart. He gave more than he took, helped without hesitation, and showed his
love through his actions. Anyone who had the privilege of knowing him knew how special he
truly was.
Losing Matthew has left a space in our family and community that can never be filled. We wish
his children had more time with their dad, that we had more time with our big brother, and that
everyone who loved him could have had just one more moment.
We will forever remember the boy who grew up on 9th Street, the man everyone knew as
“Shorty,” the father who loved his children, the protective big brother, and the friend who would
do anything for anyone.
His hands built so much throughout his life, but the greatest thing he ever built was a
lifetime of love, memories, and connections that will never be forgotten.
His legacy will live on through his children, his siblings, his family, his lifelong friends, and
everyone whose life he touched.
Rest peacefully, Matthew. You were deeply loved, and you will be missed more than words could
ever express.
Forever our Matthew. Forever our Shorty. Forever our Warrior.
Family and friends are invited to visiting hours to be held on Friday evening November 27, 2026 from 4 to 9pm in the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, 757 E. Main Street, Ventura. Funeral services will be held Saturday November 28, 2028 at 11am at Carpinteria District Cemetery, 1501 Craven Lane, Carpinteria.