Matthew Debiak Jr.

Matthew Debiak, Jr., 63, of Clifton, passed away unexpectedly on February 10, 2023. Born in Passaic, he was a lifelong resident of Clifton and parishioner of St. John Kanty RC Church.
Matt had worked for many companies in the area including TRW, Onyx, Northrop Grumman and Covanta Energy where he was a Scale Master since 2001. Matt was mechanically inclined and could fix any small engine machine, including lawn mowers and snow blowers, and ran his own landscaping company for many years. He had a love for trains, his Alaskan Malamute and Washington "The Commanders".
Matt's love for his young nieces and nephews - Laura, PJ, Christine, Ben, Chris and Emily - showed in every Easter egg he packed with chocolates and carefully hid for his annual Easter egg hunt. Matt's house was the first they'd visit on Halloween and they'd leave with candies and treats filling their pumpkins to overflowing. His love as an uncle knew no bounds. He was a giant of a man with a giant and ever generous heart. He didn't have to be asked to help anyone in need, he saw a situation and immediately and discreetly took care of it no matter what the cost.
His physical appearance later in life was identical to Santa Claus. Many a child would try to get his attention at an event or in a store and just mention to him some toy or gift they wanted. He played Santa Claus at the St. John Kanty Church "Breakfast with Santa" for many years. The only downfall was when a child would tug on his beard expecting it to come off, but it was real and they yanked a few strands out.
Matt loved getting together with family and welcomed everyone's friends and extras that came with them. He always made sure the food and drink were plentiful. He was known for his "stories" and people gathered around him mesmerized as his voice inflections and facial expressions made them laugh until they couldn't catch their breath. He was genuine, compassionate, funny, caring, devoted to his family, and will be greatly missed by all who were lucky enough to be in his presence.
Devoted husband of Janet (Maksym) Siery Debiak and the late Maureen (Cassidy) Debiak, who passed away in 2008. Cherished stepfather of Kimberly Siery of Clifton. Beloved son of Veronica (Kopitar) Debiak of Clifton, and the late Matthew Debiak, Sr.. Dearest brother of Nancy Peskosky and her late husband Paul Sr. of Clifton and Bob Debiak and wife Cindy of East Hanover. Adored uncle of Laura (Mike), Paul Jr. (Raquel), Christine (Alex), Benjamin, Christopher (Manuela), Emily, Alyssa(Russell), Julia, Erin, Elizabeth and great nieces, Emma and Lilyana. Dear brother in law of Edward & Rosemary Maksym, Christopher and Gina Cassidy, Michael & Maureen Cassidy, and Steven Cassidy.
Visiting Thursday 4-8 PM at the Shook Funeral Home, 639 Van Houten Ave., Clifton. Funeral Friday 8:45 AM at the funeral home and 10 AM at St. John Kanty RC Church, Clifton. Interment, East Ridgelawn Cemetery, Clifton