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Matthew Hobika Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Hobika
shelley hobika
June 25, 2011
matthew you are constantly on my mind. i am saddened and grieving still. alex and i smile and laugh when we play spoons, jump on the trampoline, eat tootsie rolls, tupperware and so many more. in my heart i know you are still watching and loving graham ellie and your family. we will be celebrating you on the 16th of july. you are loved and missed always. shelley
Sharon Hustwit
April 30, 2010
To Joe and Madeline, and the Hobika Family -
I am saddened to learn (only today via Facebook upon visiting his page) that Matthew is no longer with us. Last year we reconnected on Facebook after 20 years. We met at Lehman Bros. in 1991 where I worked while I was attending Boston University. I loved him for his ability to make me laugh, and for being as much of a wise guy as me - if not a bigger one! He was a good man with a big heart. I visited your home once during this time - I don't know if you remember. Matthew was also with me the night I graduated from college and will always be a part of one of the most joyous and proud days of my life. I am very sorry for your loss. My blessings are with you.
RJ (Ralph) Raspante
March 25, 2010
To the Hobika family-
Matt was a classmate of mine from kindergarten through 12th grade. He literally provided years of laughs and entertainment. I always knew that in addition to Matt's class clown exterior, there was a kind, caring, special person. Those years seem like a lifetime ago, yet when hearing about his passing I felt like part of my childhood was lost. My thoughts and prayers go out to you.
David
December 1, 2009
I miss you cuz.....
Cindy Balduf Grathwol
August 10, 2009
Hobika Family -
May you find comfort in your loving memories of Matt during this difficult time. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. It was a privilege to read the article about Luke's SDGA victory describing how Matt's spirit guided each shot. I will continue to cherish the wonderful memories of Matt and your family.
Elliot Kulick
August 9, 2009
So sorry to hear of Matt's passing. I knew Matty well at Fredonia State. Always a great guy. He will be truly missed. Rest in Peace.
Elrod
Joe Pasquale
August 8, 2009
Madeline and Joe
I was so sorry to hear of Matt's passing. I'll pray to our Lord that He give you the graces and the strength that you need at this time. I truly believe that He will.
Eileen Weathers
August 6, 2009
Joe and Madeline, Please know Bob and I are thinking of you and your family and continue to keep you in our prayers. Matt must have been a wonderful and caring person because it shows in all the lovely online notes. Much love to the family. Eileen
Paul Costello
August 3, 2009
To the Hobika family--
I remember Matt's smile and the full- of-life spark in his eyes. We had a lot of fun in grade school. I remember "double dating" with Debbie Padula and Cindy Triviari and Matt on the bus ride in Miss Johnson's 6th grade to Lake George.... Hard to believe he's gone... Know I'm thinking of you in these troubled times. May you find consolation and may he rest in Peace....
Philip Fiorentino
August 1, 2009
A few of my favorite memories of growing up in the neighborhood with Luke's older brother, the legend, Matt Hobika. Earlier years - Matt taking a page from evil kenivel and lining-up a whole bunch of us neighborhood kids under "the jump" at Jones school and jumping over us on a bicycle. Matt encouraging me on my bike to descend the most treacherous, steepest hill around - Hollister Ave. Later years - all the rides to UFA so we (freshmen) didn't have to wait for the bus. Matt cruising around in the delta 88 convertible, lining-up all kinds of landscaping, cleaning and painting jobs for us to earn a few bucks, and all the antics that followed. What great charisma he had.
Paul Berkowitz
July 26, 2009
To the Hobika family,
Your loss must be challenging, and I am sorry. I just connected with Matt a month ago. I lived next to him at Fredonia in 82, 403B. We started ITK together. Though I only knew him one semester he was able to create memories that still hold strong for me 27 years later. I am reminded of a qoute by Jackie Robinson, he said a man can only be measured by the impact he had on others. By this standard Matt was a successful man and I am glad I was able to say hello to him again..
Patrick Shannon
July 24, 2009
I was so sorry to hear about Matt's passing. He always had a great smile and boundless energy. I knew Matt while in college at Fredonia and had just reconnected with him a month ago. He will be missed.
Lucille Kall
July 24, 2009
It's hard to know what to say during a difficult time like this, but hope you know you are being thought about.
Lucille Stark Kall
Julie Orbinati-Moore
July 23, 2009
Mr and Mrs. Hobika and family,
I was shocked to hear of Matthew's passing.
Matthew had the most contagious smile and kind heart. I have such fond memories of Matthew and our frinedship.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you at this time and always.
Donna (Nehme) Rumery
July 23, 2009
I was so deeply saddened when I learned of Matthew's passing. I saw Matthew in Utica while visiting over the last Holiday season at Michael T's, he was having dinner with his sisters Lucia and Shelly. It was so nice to see him. I regret that I did not meet him and some other high school friends later that night when he called to say that they were all getting together. I had not seen Matt in many years but he had not changed in my eyes, still smiling that beautiful smile. He was always a joy to be around. He will be missed. My condolences to the Hobika family.
Lisa Tomasello
July 22, 2009
I still remember the first day I met Matt - Fall 1982 on the Fredonia Campus - starched polo shirt, crisp blue jeans, that distinctive walk and big mischievous smile. I will cherish my memories of him and will always remember what a special person he was. My deepest sympathies go out to the Hobika family, Matt's children - Graham and Ellie, and Cathy. May God bless you all during this very difficult time.
Joe & Robin Donovan
July 22, 2009
"Cousin" Matt; always around, always making you laugh and smile...mostly laugh. You'll be missed.
John Biondo
July 21, 2009
My deepest sympathy to the Hobika family. Matt & Coach Mike were two of the first friends I made at Fredonia State. Matt was a great guy who loved to have fun. I can only remember him with a smile on his face and a big hello everytime we met. In a strange twist of fate Matt and I reconnected last month. It was great to hear from him after a long time. His passing has brought a great number of old friends back together again and for that I am truly grateful. You'll be missed Matty Boy. You were on of the good ones...
John Oates
UFA Class of 82 / 25th Reunion
Susan Mootz Vachris
July 21, 2009
What a wonderful tribute the wake and funeral were for Matthew! Matt was one of the first people I met at UFA in ninth grade and we have been friends ever since. Coming from Roosevelt (as opposed to Hughes and Kemble) I really didn't know too many people, but Matt was so friendly and kind it didn't take me long to feel welcome and accepted. I will feel his absence profoundly each time I return to Utica.
Dan Collea
July 21, 2009
I last saw Matt a few years ago in Utica and, as always, left me with a loud laugh and a big smile. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Hobika family.
Karen Gouse Colberg
July 21, 2009
I was so saddened to hear this news. I have many many many happy and funny memories of Matthew. He was such a good friend, so kind at his core, and so much fun to be around. It's almost impossible to believe he's no longer with us.
Jodi Perry
July 20, 2009
July 20, 2009
When I heard the news...from another UFA graduate I lost my breath. Matt was behind me a year at UFA but I remember him and not to be redundant to others' entries but Matt truly shone bright as the sun with his genuine humanity, acceptance of all of his schoolmates, and all it took was a "hello" and Matt's smile took over the entire hallway. I knew Shelly also and Luke to a lesser degree but I always will recall with fondness and now, sorrow. Matt, you have the love of many friends and relatives, but also please know that you touched the lives of those who would not be acknowledged by legions of lesser selfless students and staff. Thank you Hobika family for raising such an extraordinary person and please accept my heartfelt grief, loss and sympathy. Know that he is loved in Heaven as he loved others on earth. God Bless You.
Dan Pozefsky
July 20, 2009
To the Hobika Family;
I am sorry to hear of your loss. I know how difficult it is and on behalf of my family, express our sincere sympathies.
Bernie Tuttle
July 20, 2009
On behalf of all the Tuttle's we were saddened to hear of Matt's passing. All of us were connected with a Hobika by age or grade while going through HS. Our heart felt thoughts and prayers are with the entire family.
Katie Henrichs and Jonathan Fredericks
July 20, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Although we only knew Matt for a short time, he had an appreciation for life that he demonstrated on a daily basis. It was a pleasure to know him.
Staff & faculty Academy of Performing & Creative Arts
July 20, 2009
To the Hobika Family,
Our sincerest condolences at this difficult time for your family.
Colleen George Beard
July 20, 2009
To the entire Hobika Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I am so saddened to hear about Matt's sudden passing. When I think of my childhood in Utica, I always think of Luke, Matt, Meredith, etc. - all of the Hobikas! We had so much fun playing tag, etc. Matt enjoyed life to the fullest and was always so nice to all of us, in spite of us being "Luke's annoying friends"!
Again, my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Jim Harper
July 20, 2009
Madeline and Joe while there are no words to comfort you, Jim and I hope that the love of your family and many friends will help you. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.We send our heartfelt sympathy. Joanne and Jim Harper
Laura (Lieba) Golden-Koulendros
July 20, 2009
I'm incredibly sorry to learn of your loss. I have very fond memories of playing with Matt and Luke at your house and in the neighborhood. My thoughts are with you and wish you solace.
Major Scott and Jann VanDerhoof
July 20, 2009
Joe, Madeline and the family, Jann and I just found out about the terible news. We are both so sorry about Matt and still can not believe it. We so wish we could be with you all right now, but Matt and you all will be in our prayers.
Shari Silverman-Voce
July 20, 2009
Luke, I just heard the sad news about your brother and wanted you to know how truly sorry I am. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and pray that you will find the strength and courage to get through this difficult time.
Marblehead Evans
July 19, 2009
My sincerest thoughts are with the Hoika familt. I graduated from Notre Dame in the same year as Andrew from UFA. My very best friend Karen Friedlander was their next door neighbor...I enjoyed many fun times between back yards. Matt contacted me several years ago and we shared many great conversations...my heart and prayers are with you at is time
Joe DePerno
July 19, 2009
Mr and Mrs Hobika,Joe,Andy,Lucille,Shelly,Meredith,and Luke I am so sorry about the loss of Matt.I remember all the fun times playing baseball and fastpitch at Jones school with Andy and the neighborhood.Also all the times playing hoops at your house.I send the whole family my deepest,deepest condolances.You're a great bunch of people and I wish I was there to say everything in person.
Matthew Morehouse
July 19, 2009
To our lifelong friends, the Hobika Family: Luke and I shared many memories growing up together but of the older children Matt was my favorite. I have never again known a person like Matt. Although I had not seen him in many years I thought of him often. Matt possessed a charisma, charm, intelligence and humor unique in this life. I looked up to him as a young boy and I always will.
He would call me 'Matty J.' which was so endearing and made me so proud, because of course, he was the true 'Matty J.'
We are all better for having known and loved Matthew.
Kiefek, my friend, we will miss you dearly.
July 19, 2009
Dear Madeline, Joe and family;
My love and prayers are with you at this very sad time. May God keep you strong.
Love, Dori
David Markason
July 19, 2009
Matt was an old friend and will be greatly missed. My condolences to the Hobika family in this difficult time.
Michael Schwenzfeier
July 19, 2009
Dear Hobika Family- I am so sorry to hear of Matt's passing. I did not know him that well, but I did graduate with Andy. Our prayers are certainly with you all at this time. Please give our sincere condolences to all of your family.
Henry F. Williams III
July 19, 2009
Words cannot express my feelings now, I first met Matt at Fredonia State and he was a force. Knowing him back then one would never think this day would ever come. I will miss you my friend.
Hankronicity
Beth Gouse
July 19, 2009
My thoughts are with you during this very difficult time. I have many fond memories of Matt. He was someone who treated those around him with kindness and warmth.
Harold & Sue Baum
July 19, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
July 19, 2009
We remember taking Matt & Michael to school in Fredonia. Matt had many colorful stories to tell. Our deepest condolances.'
Dominic & Marie Viti
Terry, Carol, Tom & Leigh O'Grady
July 19, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with Coach Matt's family. We were very appreciative of the time and energy he gave the CYO basketball team and have so many good memories. This was one great coach and we are grateful to have had the opportunity. Love from the O'Grady family.
George & Patty Casab
July 19, 2009
We are saddened to hear of the loss in your family. Our prayers go out to you.
Jame & Sandy Iannone
July 19, 2009
To the Hobika family,
Our deepest sympathy for your loss, I'm sure he will be greatly missed.
Jim & Sandy Iannone
Ron Gouse
July 19, 2009
I am saddened to hear of Matt's sudden passing. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones. Although I have not seen him in over 20 years, I remember him as a great guy, always smiling and eager to make others laugh. I am sure he will be missed.
Abbe & Les Gross
July 19, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. Matt was truly 'one of a kind' and we feel so fortunate to have known him.
Lisa George
July 19, 2009
You are all in my thoughts and prayers...May strength and love surround you all..
Peace ...
July 19, 2009
dear hobika family I am saddened by matthews sudden passing, every memory of him has him smiling or laughing. ipray or all of you
mike coppola
Tom & Rose Hajdasz
July 19, 2009
Joe and Family:
Our prayers and condolences are with you all during this time of sorrow and loss.
Garrett Phelps
July 19, 2009
Ouy thoughts are with you and Coach Matt.One of Garrett's favorites.Love and prayers the Phelps family.
Garrett Phelps
July 19, 2009
Out thoughts are with Coach Matt . One of Garrett's favorite coaches.Love and prayers The Phelps family.
Joe Caramadre
July 18, 2009
I have fond memories of Matt. We were in the same group of friends through grammar and middle school. My heart goes out to Meredith who I was probably closest to, Shelly, Joe, Andy and the whole family. I moved away a long time ago but have thought of all of you often.
Tom & Sandy Union
July 18, 2009
Joe and Madeline, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May God's Peace be with Matthew and with you all.
Kelly Farrell-Solway
July 18, 2009
I first met Matthew in 1982 - Freshman year at SUNY Fredonia. We reunited in Boston during the late 80's and finally met again in Pittsford, NY two years ago. I've seen the highs and low's with Matt and I commend him for reaching his inner soul before he left us at such a young age. I will cherish all the memories I have of Matthew close to my heart. My prayers are with his family.
Mary & Nick Curri
July 18, 2009
Dear Joe and Madeline,
Our deepest sympathy on your loss. Love and prayers to you and your entire family. Love, Mary & Nick Curri
Anthony Tartaglia
July 18, 2009
Dear Madeline and Joe and all the family members,
We were saddened to learn of your loss.
God bless Matt and all of you.
Your old buddy,
Tony Tartaglia and wife Dorcas
Buffy French
July 18, 2009
I, too, have vivid memories of Matt in school. Prayers for the family and friends.
Amy Waldman
July 18, 2009
When we were growing up, I always thought Matt was the sweetest of the Hobika boys, and I adored him. We had recently reconnected a few months ago on Facebook, so it was especially jarring when Mom told me this morning. Cathy, Ellie, Graham, Joe, Andy, Lucia, Shelley, Meredith, Luke and especially Madeline & Joe - our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Pauline & Charles Read
July 18, 2009
Our prayers are with the Hobika family. The loss of a loved one so young leaves many responsibilities and unanswered questions for those left behind. God directs and aids in times like this.
Dianne Walker-Scheri
July 18, 2009
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Christopher Williams
July 18, 2009
I am shocked and saddened by the news about Matt Hobika passing away on his 45th birthday Thursday. I would never have thought that that the last time I saw Matt at the UFA class of 1982 reunion at the Radisson would have been the last. My heart goes out to all of Matt’s family especially his children and all of those close to him who were fortunate to have him part of their lives. Matthew J. Hobika, July 16, 1964 - July 16, 2009.
George&Janet Hallak
July 18, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
James Olivadoti
July 18, 2009
My sincerest condolences to the entire Hobika family during this tragic time. No words can ease your pain and I am truly saddended for your loss. I am at your call for any assistance I can lend during these troubled times.
Steve & Roberta Schiavi
July 18, 2009
Dear Joe & Madeline,
Our deepest sympathy upon your loss of your loving son Matthew. We fully understand the emotional and physical pain that this loss brings to your family, and we pray that our Lord will protect and ease the family's sorrow at this trying time.
We are unable to attend to our sympathies personally while away from Utica, but our hearts and thoughts are with you today. God bless you and your children, and the many grandchildren of your suffering family, We hope that, in time, all of you will be healed from this sad loss.
Sincerely,
Steve & Roberta Schiavi
Jackie Gardner,Haddad
July 18, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
George Nehme
July 18, 2009
To the Hobika Family: I can muster few words to express my heartfelt condolances for your profound loss. I have fond memories of Matthew as we were all growing up and they are replete with so much laughter and a spirit that embodies all the wonderful possibilities in life. Though many years have passed since those memorable times, I am grateful for having had the chance to know Matthew. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you in the hopes that they may, however so modestly, ease your extraordinary grief and pain. With much love,
Amy Stoller
July 18, 2009
Words cannot express how sad we are that Matt is gone. I am grateful that we had reconnected on facebook, Matt always had funny comments to share.
Our condolences go out to Matt's Fiance and family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Amy(Markason) Stoller
Shelley Cannuli
July 18, 2009
Matthew will be missed greatly. He was a father, brother and a friend to many. He loved his children very much. Matthew thought of them every minute of every single day. Rest in peace Matthew.
John LoGuidice
July 18, 2009
We said a prayer for Matt on Thursday night and will continue to keep the Hobika family and his children in our prayers for understanding and acceptance.
I have tremendously vivid memories of Matt throughout our lives, going back to first grade when he was routinely asked by Mrs Zoeckler, our teacher, to help her unlock the center desk to her drawer. Don't know why this is such a strong memory, but I can still hear him jiggle it back and forth and being the only one that could open it!
At UFA, the only basket I scored in my limited career was off an assist from Matt at half court. I recall seeing his smiling face as he hit me with a chest past and I put away my first (and only) basket.
I'm very conforted to have recalled a conversation we had at the last reunion and the pride he felt at his connection with the church. I have no doubt he's happily rejoicing in heaven.
Thanks for the great memories Matt! Rest, now, in peace with the Lord.
John and Diann LoGuidice
cindy fishman
July 18, 2009
I am so extremely saddened to have learned of Matthew's passing. I worked with him for several years in Boston. He always kept everyone smiling and was truly in love with his two children. God bless you, Matt. We all miss you. xo CFL
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