Matthew Bennett Fitting

Matthew Bennett Fitting IthacaMatthew B. Fitting, 31, passed away peacefully in his sleep during the early morning hours of September 19 at his home in Ithaca. Matt was born in Utica. He graduated from Christian Brothers Academy in Albany where he wrestled, and won several awards in his weight class. He played varsity soccer at CBA during all of his high school years. In 2009, Matt graduated from Hudson Valley Community College with highest academic honors. A student at Ithaca College, soon to complete his degree in exercise science, Matt was also a full-time employee of Lowe's in Ithaca. Matt was a gifted writer and artist, as well. Matt was a lover of the simple life and nature. He was never happier than when he was climbing up or diving off a gorge, swimming, hiking, fishing or camping. Animals also held a special place in Matt's heart. He especially loved his dogs, Busta, Wolfgang, and Shorty. The rock group, Further, an outcropping of the Grateful Dead, could view Matt in the audience during many of their concerts, as he was an ardent fan. Matt is survived by his parents, Gordon and Susan Fitting of Delmar; his aunt, Martha Bennett of Cicero; and his uncles, John and David Fitting of Columbiaville. He also leaves behind several great-aunts, great-uncles, and cousins; and several cherished friends. Matt's family and friends were precious to him. Matt was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, John and Mildred Fitting, and his maternal grandparents, Donald and June Bennett. The family would like to send special thanks to Dr. James D. Chang, Matthew's cardiologist, mentor, and champion. For those who prefer an alternative to flowers, a memorial contribution in Matthew's memory may be made toward Dr. James D. Chang's heart research. Donations can be sent on line, bidmc.org/giving, or checks can be sent to the following address: Office of Development Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, (BR ) Boston, MA 02215. Checks can be made payable to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), with a notation, In Memory of Matthew Fitting. Calling hours will be held from 5 until 8 p.m. on Sunday, September 23, at the Bond Funeral Home in Valatie. His funeral will take place on Monday, September 24 at 11 a.m. at the Trinity United Methodist Church on Joslen Boulevard in Hudson.