Paul Mateer Obituary
Paul received his Bachelors and Masters in teaching for High School Industrial Arts at State University College at Buffalo. He moved to New Milford, CT in 1972 with his wife and taught at Brookfield High School for 32 coffee fueled years making a lasting impression on so many students. He was an avid train collector and always made time on Sundays to watch his NY Giants and Jets play during the NFL season. He enjoyed his retirement in Westbrook, CT listening to music and watching classic television shows. He always had a good joke to tell if you had the time and loved the occasional good natured prank. He had a great fondness for pyrotechnics as well. Paul was a devoted and dedicated husband to his wife, Judy.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mrs. Judy (Alise) Mateer, Westbrook, CT, his daughter and son-in-law, Allison and Craig Strzelecki, Westbrook, CT and his grandson Cole Strzelecki, Westbrook, CT.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in his memory, to the American Heart Association or the American Diabetes Association.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
Jason A. Ferraro
October 20, 2025
Mr. Matter, was my favorite and most beloved teacher at Brookfield HS. He had a great sense of humor and always had a hot cup of coffee he would be sipping throughout the classes. I had the pleasure of learning from him, from 1990-94. He would frequently talk about his love of trains, and was extremely knowledgeable about his passion for woodworking. He was quite witty, and would have funny ways of saying things. Some of his famous quotes were, "believe you me" and "keep your fat little fingers out of the cutting area of the machine". He was a stickler for safety, in shop class. Always reminding us to take off our watches and rings, before starting class. However, he would always tell us that he keeps his wedding ring on, because it's has special meaning to him. I always thought, it was so sweet, how he thought so highly of his wife. I can still hear his voice in my head, as he would always start class. "Ah, listen up people". Mr Mateer, was special to a bunch of us guys in high school. He treated everyone with dignity and respect. He was a true gentleman and one I will never forget. I still miss him today. Rest in peace my friend. I hope to see you in heaven one day.
Anne Mateer
May 21, 2025
So many familiar places, Yonkers, Gorton High School, Buffalo State and now Verbank. You are joining family in this special cemetery. Rest in peace.
Anne Mateer
May 21, 2025
Dear Allison my thoughts are with you during your time of sorrow
Sharon and Mark Chamberlin
May 19, 2025
We enjoyed being neighbors with Paul and Judy for many years, in New Milford, Connecticut. They became second family to us and enjoyed watching our children grow up. We are sending all the best to Judy and Allison and her family the Chamberlin´s
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