Michael J. Matzko

Michael J. Matzko, 80, of Bloomsburg, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, June 12, 2025.
Born October 24, 1944, in Scranton, he was the son of the late Dr. Michael J. Matzko and Ruth (Peck) Matzko.
A 1962 graduate of Berwick High School, Michael was deeply committed to lifelong education. In high school, he was awarded a prestigious National Science Foundation scholarship to study physics during the height of the space race. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Bucknell University in 1966, where he was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and competed on the varsity wrestling team. He completed a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of Scranton in 1967, and later attended Hahnemann Medical School, further reflecting his lifelong dedication to learning and service.
Beyond academics, Michael loved a great party and had an adventurous and athletic spirit. He was an expert waterskier, search and rescue-certified scuba diver, hunter, and boat captain. He spent countless hours on the water sharing his love of the lake with family and friends. He was also a passionate photographer, working alongside professional photographers, as well as capturing family and friends in everyday life.
Professionally, Michael spent many years as a school counselor in the Millville School District and as Director of Alternative Education in the Central Columbia School District. He was dedicated to supporting students of all backgrounds including those preparing for college as well as those pursuing vocational paths or military service. He believed in meeting individuals where they were and helping each one find a meaningful future. He also counseled incarcerated individuals, providing educational support and guidance as part of their rehabilitation.
Michael was an active volunteer in the Big Brothers and Big Sisters Program, served as Director of Boating Safety at Elk Lake Development Association, supported students in the Upward Bound program, and was a board member at the Educational Opportunity Center, where he championed access to higher education.
With his family, he was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Bloomsburg.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Frances Matzko.
Michael is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Cynthia Kindler Matzko; his son, Dr. Michael John Matzko, Ph.D., and his wife, Kara, of Virginia Beach; his daughter, Dr. Michelle Matzko, MD, Ph.D., and her spouse, Thomas, of Boston, MA; and three cherished grandchildren: Reed, January (Janny), and Summer. He is also survived by two sisters: Katherine, wife of Dr. John S. Mulka, of Bloomsburg, and Dr. R. Christine, wife of Dr. John Greedan, of Ancaster, Ontario; cousin John Parker and wife Beverly, of Berwick, brother-in-law Dr. Jeffrey Kindler and wife Cheryl, of Lehighton, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Elk Lake Development Association's boat and safety programs, in support of the lake and community he loved. Checks may be made payable to "ELDA" and sent to Pat Walker, Treasurer, PO Box 152, Waymart, PA, 18472.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Mayo Funeral Home, Inc., Berwick.
For additional information or to send online condolences, please visit www.mayofh.com.