Matthew R. Hershey

Matt was not only a friend but also a former co-worker of mine at Scholarly Resources. His comedic side is absolutely legendary, and his love of God, family, and friends will always be among many of Matt's forever endearing qualities. It's truly hard to believe that it's been ten years, but Matt is still fondly remembered and always will be missed--Carolyn Travers

The touching and heartfelt service and celebration of life were exactly what Matt wanted and especially what his family and friends needed. The tribute to him was full of love, faith, hope, and humor, all of which were part of Matt's amazing and inspirational life--Carolyn Travers, New Castle, Delaware

Matt lived a few doors up the street from me when we were kids. I have lots of great memories playing softball and football and riding skateboards. We fell out of touch in junior high school, and I have often wondered about him. I pray for his family. He was a nice guy who will be missed.

I only knew Matt in high school, and I remember him as an incredibly kind, smart and talented person. I see from his inspiring poetry and posts on melanomaforum.org that as a grown man he was still just as kind, smart and talented. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends.

We would like to honor Matthew's memory by posting a link to some of his poetry and thoughts he posted the past few months of his life.
Go to: www.melanomaforum.org and put PAPoet in the SEARCH box. He gave so much to our melanoma community in such a short time.

I moved away from PA in 1985 when I left for college and then relocated to Minnesota. I hadn't talked to Matt in years. I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Matt's passing. I will always remember him as a great guy, always positive and always bringing laughter to a room. My thoughts are with all of you as you navigate through this difficult time.

One can't say enough nice things about Matt to do him justice. He was smart, genuine, kind and extremely funny. I knew Matt since the 7th grade. I fell out of touch with him after high school but am gratified to see how wonderfully his life turned out and that he was such an amazing husband and father. My sincerest sympathies go out to his family and closest friends. Matt is someone who will be missed by many.

Matthew was a wonderful addition to our forum at the Melanoma International Foundation, in fact we started a poetry column at his suggestion and published some of his work which was compelling. We will miss Matthew and I personally feel honored for our long conversations we had. I wish his family much comfort during this terrible time for them.

I credit Matt directly for my survival of the Jr. High/High School years, where his friendship and council helped me make it through the rough times. Wish I would have stayed in better touch in the time since. Perhaps, could have returned the favor.

Taking Dan's lead, searched through my old photo albums for a good shot of Matt. The best I found was Matt's 7th grade picture. Hopefully, it will help rekindle some memories to help keep him alive.

Safe journeys, brother.