Matthew Pirofalo

Matthew Pirofalo March 12, 1907 - October 31, 2006 Matthew Pirofalo, the first born son of Italian American parents, began his life on March 12, 1907 in Chicago, Illinois. He passed away on Tuesday, October 31, 2006 at The Fountains of the Grand Valley at the age of 99. Matthew was an athletic youth excelling in sports, particularly weight lifting. At nineteen years of age he took second place in the Illinois state weightlifting championship for the light weight division. Following high school Matthew began a career as a tradesman in the ceramic tile profession. During World War II he transferred to defense work in welding for Greyhound Bus Lines. On May 29, 1934, Matthew married Emma Houck in Pittsburg, KS. They had one son, Phillip. In 1946 Matthew, Emma, and Phillip joined Emma's family in Grand Junction. Matthew often remarked that he owed this splendid move to his beloved Emma. Matthew had the opportunity to resume his life work and created and operated the Matthew Pirofalo Tile Company in the western Colorado region for over 20 years. Once he retired, Matthew indulged in his favorite past times of fishing and hunting. As an avid fisherman his family and friends realized that Vega reservoir was his second home. Hunting for birds and game with his closest friend, retired Mesa State College dean, Jay Tolman was a rigorous pursuit for Matthew. He also enjoyed singing, where his outstanding singing voice enabled him to be a soloist for the Immaculate Heart of Mary choir for many years. His greatest pleasure came from creating ceramic tile mosaics and artwork. His artistic talent in ceramic tile craft work was featured in the August 2, 2003 Home & Garden issue of The Daily Sentinel in the editorial article entitled "Mosaic Master, Retiree uses years of experience to craft tile artwork." Matthew possessed many wonderful qualities of character, but he was loved mostly for his love of people, family, and for his friendly charming personality. He will be truly missed by his family and friends, but he has welcomed the prospect of joining his beloved Emma, who preceded him in death in 1996. Survivors include his son, Phillip of Bonita, CA., and two grandchildren; Matthew Pirofalo and Julie Anderson. A funeral service will be held Saturday, November 4, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at Callahan-Edfast Mortuary. Visitation will be prior to the funeral. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.