Matthew G Rossi

Matthew G. Rossi, 19, of East Hanover, passed away unexpectedly on February 10, 2023.  

Matthew was a gift from God and a shining light to all who knew him. His joy, kindness and love of life radiated from him every day, in his beautiful eyes and big smile. He loved spending time with his family, whether it was just sitting at home, going to mass or going out to dinner. The simplicity of being together as a family made him so happy. He enjoyed a special bond with his sister Victoria, whom he loved so very much. Their precious memories together will live on in our hearts, especially going to concerts, Yankee games and singing together every night.

Matthew’s love of food was at the center of each day, always planning ahead what was for lunch and dinner. His most requested meals were Dad’s cheeseburgers and Mom’s chicken cutlets. Our house was filled with happiness when he was watching movies, listening to music and playing on his iPad. He also loved playing games, especially driving as fast as possible on the Cars Mater National Wii game, DVD Bingo and Uno, which he always managed to win.

Matthew loved going to the beach and taking boat rides to NYC. He truly enjoyed being outdoors and all of its elements…wind, rain, even the snow, but especially loved going for strolls with his sunglasses on. Even before entering God’s kingdom, he always loved things from above. He especially loved God’s creation of Mars and the entire solar system, which he was surrounded by daily in his bedroom. As a teenager, Matthew developed a love for Star Wars movies, which not only had high-paced action, but the important reminder that good and love are always stronger than hate and fear. Matthew was highly involved in his choices, especially in creating many pieces of art at home and school. He took pride in his apprearance and enjoyed picking out his clothes. He always looked dapper with impeccable hair and his Converse sneakers.

Matthew was a proud high school graduate of CTC Academy in Oakland, NJ. CTC was his second home and he loved spending his days there. The dedication and support of their administration, teachers and therapists nurtured him and developed his many skills and talents. After graduation, he continued in their vocational STEP program where he was learning how to do jobs that he enjoyed, especially making T-shirts on the Cricut machine and using his communication device to assist his teacher and the school environment. His device proficiency grew with each passing year, giving him the independence that was so important to his dignity.

Matthew was blessed with a multitude of doctors, each of whom played a vital role in providing him with the best care, focused on his quality of life. Medical decisions and plans of care were always a collaboration. Matthew was also blessed with amazing nurses who cared for him like he was their own. Their dedication and commitment to our loving young man will never be forgotten. Integral to his daily life, were also many home therapists that helped his development and communication. Even though this made for a busy home schedule, he enjoyed the bond that he had with these special people. Our sincerest gratitude goes to all who contributed to Matthew’s wonderful life. You are part of our family and will always be.

Matthew truly inspired and touched so many lives each and every day. He exemplified patience, perseverance and unconditional love, the very virtues of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, whom he is now resting in peace with. Matthew’s love of life and positivity will live on forever, just like his gentle soul.

Beloved son of Kirk and Anabela Rossi.  Loving brother of Victoria Rossi.  Dear grandson of Victor and Maria Ferreira. Cherished nephew, cousin and friend to many.

Matthew was pre-deceased by his loving grandmother, Gayle Rossi (nee O’Grady), and his grandfather, Joseph Rossi, as well as several aunts and uncles.  

A celebration of Matthew’s life will be at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Tuesday from 4-7 p.m.  The funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, 11:30 a.m at St. Rose of Lima Church in East Hanover, followed by the entombment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Matthew’s name to CTC Academy, 125 Bauer Drive, Oakland NJ 07436.

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