"Parents ain't supposed to outlive their kids," said James Wilson.

They hadn't spoken since Christmas, and hadn't seen one another in more than a year, since Matthew joined the Army in February 2008. Before that, there were regular visits "almost every week" while James Wilson was in a care facility in Aurora.

Wilson, who has suffered three strokes, is now in a nursing facility in Branson, the same one where Matthew's mother stayed before passing away in 2003 after a battle with multiple sclerosis.

"He took care of his mother when I wasn't there. While I was at work, he'd cook her food, just do everything for her," said Wilson.

After his mother's death and his father's stroke, Matthew went into foster care, spending part of his time in Miller, where he was a member of the football team in his junior year, and skilled with computers. His father says he also loved hunting and fishing. Matthew left high school after his junior year to serve in the Army.

"He just wanted to serve his country, and we're extremely proud of that for him," Miller High School Counselor Vicki Baker said on Wednesday.

During his time based at Fort Drum, N.Y., Matthew was married and had a child. James has yet to meet Matthew's widow, Ashlynn Wilson, 19, and 6-month-old Matthew Gunnar Wilson.

"But I'd like to go see my grandson," James said.

He, of course, wishes he could see his son again, too.

"He was a swell kid. I don't think you could find a better one," said Wilson.

Pfc. Matthew Wilson will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery. His father is searching for a way to be able to afford the trip to Washington, D.C., for the funeral, which is scheduled for Aug. 19.

To see the story from Miller on Wednesday, click here.