Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Matthew Cullen Obituary
Matthew John, Dr., 48, of Oradell, NJ passed away January 17, 2014 after a sudden illness. Matthew lived with his domestic partner Gary E. Middleton the past 14 years.
Matthew was the son of Dr. Leonard and Marilyn Cullen, and grew up in Oradell, N.J. After graduating from UMDNJ, he took over his father's Oradell dental practice.
Matthew enjoyed time with Gary traveling, discussing politics, attending the theater in New York and spending summer weekends at Fire Island. Family and friends will always remember them hosting an annual lavish Kentucky Derby Day party. He is preceded by his mother Marilyn and brother-in-law Robert. In addition to Gary, Matthew is survived by his father and his wife, Mary, of Cape Cod, MA; his brother Brian and his wife Heidi of Voorhees, NJ.; his sisters, Maureen of Oradell, and Eileen and her husband Michael Weber of Cape Cod; his nephews Daniel and Patrick Bowman, Michael and Brendan Weber, Brian Cullen, Michael and Gil Leibovich; and his nieces Nicole Cullen, Kathryn Weber and Maya Leibovich. Friends will be received at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ www.becker-funeralhome.com on Wednesday January 22nd from 4-8 PM. A private service will follow the next day. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to The Human Rights Campaign in Matthew's memory.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Cullen
Debbie & Ed Fehre
February 27, 2014
We are so sorry to hear this sad news about Dr. Cullen. Like many of Dr. Cullen's patients my husband started with his father and we all continued with Matthew. We considered him a friend, not just our dentist. I had an intense fear of dentistry, but through kindness and a gentle manner I relaxed and enjoyed going! We are truly sad and in shock that such a young, vibrant, good person is no longer with us. We will miss him very much and are so sorry for all who loved him.
Marie Herrick
February 22, 2014
To all of those who loved Matt, our heartfelt love and sympathy go out to you. Oh, how we will miss that dear man.
The Herrick Family, River Edge, NJ
Deroy Murdock
February 14, 2014
I was fortunate to have known Matt as a friend since about 1990. I remember him fondly as an easygoing and hilarious man. He laughed often and heartily, and his joy was infectious. Gary was very lucky to have had Matt in his life, and he is very much in my thoughts. I still cannot believe that my wonderful friend, whom I saw in early December, no longer is with us. How startling and how sad. I miss Matt very much already.
Darryl Miller
February 5, 2014
Dearest Family,
My heart broke today as the news was given. Matt knew me to be a bit of a wordsmith but I can't speak for I may break with the very next word. Before I go, I wish to tell the family it was my honor to know your son, brother, uncle and all those other wondrous words. I got to call him friend since November '91. And he never let me go.
I love you dear friend. And your ENTIRE family and circle for their embrace.
Dorothy, Robert & Patty Savage & D'Angelo Famlies
January 26, 2014
Our sincere sympathy to Dr. Leonard Cullen & the Cullen family. Our daughter Patty Savage D'Angelo has been going to the (2) Dr. Cullens for over 49 years. She now lives, down the shore, in Wall township and was still a patient of Dr. Matthew. When Patty was 3 1/2 we searched for a gentle, patient, loving dentist to care for our daughter. We certainly found one of the best with Dr. Leonard Cullen. When Dr. Cullen retired and Matthew replaced him we continued to have the very best. My husband & I are also patient's of Dr. Matthew. My husband said why didn't we go to Dr. Cullen earlier, he is the best. Not only do you have a great loss but we also have a great loss. Dr. Matthew was a loving, happy, fine person and his laugh was the greatest. He will be missed by MANY people He has to be the brightest shinning star in heaven.
Janice Janendo
January 26, 2014
I am shocked and saddened by this news. Matt was my dentist but most of all my friend. The world has lost someone very special. My heartfelt condolences to all his family.
January 26, 2014
Dear Matt. What a shock. Going to the dentist will never be the same. After having your dad and then yourself are very big shoes to fill. I have been very fortunate.
Matt, May you rest in eternal peace and my condolences to your partner and family especially Dr Leonard. Mary Ann Lewis Ph.D
January 26, 2014
My 84 year old mother was so saddened by news of Dr. Matt's passing. She enjoyed visiting him ,and the practice throughout his career. She brought me, and my 3 siblings to Dr . Cullen ,Sr. in 1960s-70s during our childhood in Oradell. We want to thank the Cullens for wonderful care over more than 40 years, and for our great teeth! Sincere condolences to the Cullen-Middleton family on your loss of Dr. Matt. He truly contributed to the health of his community, and will be missed. In sympathy,
Mary Campagnolo,M.D., Columbus,NJ
Valeri Olson
January 25, 2014
My sincerest condolences to Dr. Matt's family and friends. My family moved to Oradell when I was 9 and his father became our family dentist. It was such a natural progression when Dr. Matt took over the practice. He always remembered your latest adventure and was eager to hear about your life since your last visit. We shared a love of theatre and he always had a few reviews ready for me when I came in. He will be missed in so many ways by so many people whose lives he touched. His spirit will live on forever in all of our lives.
Cecilia Purcell
January 25, 2014
I would like to offer my condolences to the entire Cullen family. My husband Pierfrancesco went to Matthew's office in Oradell last summer where he quickly solved a little dental emergency. He was so kind to see us right away. I was happy to meet the younger Dr. Cullen and have a chance to chat with Maureen, my childhood classmate. My husband and I offer our deepest sympathy.
The Pizzute Family
January 23, 2014
My children and I are deeply saddened. My children Stephanie and Christopher loved him as their dentist when they were small and respected him greatly as adults. I will remember Matt as a kind, personable and caring person. He is truly someone who genuinely was interested in his patients not only as clients but as friends, He and I shared the same birthdays and from now on I will toast to Matt on our shared day... He will be missed but I have to say all I have are fond memories... With the current status of today's world and how stresses can affect people...he never show that stress and was always a calming entity... Rest in peace and will see you again some day
Erin Cain
January 23, 2014
Dr. Matt,
You were my first boss. When I heard the news I couldn't believe it and to this moment I am deeply saddened. I cherish those memories of walking over to your office, spending snowy Saturdays laughing with you, Mo and the office family. You took me to broadway shows in New York City and as a young girl I admired you in many ways. Most days I stood by your side taking in your effortlessly entertaining conversations with patients- watching you connect to every person that sat in your chair. I would think to myself, "I want to be like him". And your laugh would shake the whole office. I loved making you laugh and the reward of being able to hear it. We talked about college and where I wanted to go. When I mentioned Arizona you told me how beautiful Scottsdale is. And that's where I live now! Your kindness, laughter, and inspiring spirit will forever leave an imprint on my heart and the hearts of all who knew you. Please watch over all of us and help us to laugh like you do. Thank you for everything. All my love to your beautiful and amazing family that I am blessed to know.
Barb Raymond
January 23, 2014
Maureen, I am so sorry to hear about your brother. If I were in NJ I would be there to show my respects.
Tom Koehler
January 23, 2014
Gary, my sympathy to you and Matt's family. Celebrating a life that, while not as long as we would have liked, was well lived. There is an Irish saying, "Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal."
With deepest sympathy,
January 23, 2014
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
David & Terri Middleton & Family
January 23, 2014
Dearest Gary & Cullen Family~ With much sadness we send our deepest condolences to you. Matt was a very special man.This was truly a shock...we had not even heard Matt was ill. May God give you all the strength in the days ahead and know you are in our thoughts and prayers with love...
Rob Davis
January 23, 2014
I have wondered for days now what to write here. And words still don't come easy. It was summer of 1982 that our mutual love for theatre brought us to New Players together at Ridgewood HS. My mother always made sure there was Yoo-Hoo in the house because you loved it! Our friendship began and we braved summer antics, getting stuck on Oradell Avenue in my parents' stick shift that you swore you knew how to drive and many other fun times we've remembered and laughed hard about together over the years. As your father's patients, we were sad to see him retire but glad you were going to carry on. I looked forward to our occasional visits to Charlie Browns on a Tuesday night when you worked late and we'd meet up afterward to catch up and visit. I'll miss those. Along with your smile, laugh and huge heart!! You are a WONDERFUL man Matt and have left a giant hole ... I will miss you greatly. My kids although they only saw you twice a year are stunned and saddened as well. Julie and my parents continue to remark in disbelief that you've left us far too soon. I love you my friend. You were one of the kindest, truest, "life long" friends" someone could have! I hope that the example you've left for us all require us all to be better people as a result! Thanks for the memories! You are greatly missed already!
January 22, 2014
Mateo,
Happy trails to you!
Tu profesor de espanol
Peter Downing
January 22, 2014
I directed Matt in several plays when he was a student at Bergen Catholic High School, most notably when he played Fagin in OLIVER! Matt had a great attitude and was a pleasure to work with. God bless Gary and Matt's entire family as you mourn his passing, and my deepest sympathy and condolences to you all.
John & Marilyn King
January 22, 2014
Gary and Cullen Family, your loss is unimaginable. The sadness is almost unbearable. The only joy is in remembering Matt's humor and life, his love for you all, and his smile. We cry with you and hope that somehow we can offer comfort when you need it.
Richard Motroni
January 22, 2014
Matt was my cousin and I always enjoyed the times we spent with each other whether it would be in California, where I live or visiting him in New Jersey. In 2008, Matt and Gary kindly welcomed me into their house as a place to stay during the family reunion and were wonderful company. I always wanted an opportunity to show my gratitude and finally got the chance this past September when my girlfriend Cindy and I were in NYC. We were able to set up a weekend brunch with Matt and Gary and I could not remember a time where Matt was more relaxed and happy. They were so kind to Cindy and she really enjoyed their company. Matt was truly a special person, witty, very intelligent, a wonderful smile, an accomplished career as a dentist and someone you enjoyed being around. Above all, he had a special love for Gary, a wonderful person, and they had talked about marriage in their future which makes Matt's passing even more sad. Cindy and I will truly miss him.
Dan Corbet
January 22, 2014
My condolences to the Cullen and Middleton families. Matt gave me one of the best laughs of my life and I'll always remember him fondly.
Dotty McClelland
January 22, 2014
Dr. Matt has been our dentist and neighbor since we moved to Oradell in 1998. Our daughter, Erin, was his dental assistant while in high school and he could not have been a better boss. We all loved him and will sorely miss him.
Dotty and Steve McClelland
marie motroni
January 22, 2014
Our thoughts are with Gary, Uncle Len and the whole Cullen family. There are no words to express the loss.
Marie Motroni and David, Alex and Ben Goldsmith
Teresa Psztur
January 22, 2014
Our thought and prayers go out to the Cullen and Middleton families! Truly, our worlds are a little darker without Matt's shining smile! I met him 7 years ago, and at that time I needed to be sedated to even walk into his office! We shared a good laugh about that very recently! He had this remarkable gift of patience and a way of putting me at ease! My last visit was one I will cherish forever. I no longer required meds to go to his office and actually LOOKED FORWARD to my appointments. On this day though he told me how fond he was of my daughter, Marissa. Of course he was going on and on, all the while, I have every instrument he had in his office in my mouth, so I couldn't answer. After the visit, I thanked him for his kind words and for not using that needle!! One last giggle and I was on my way. Called my daughter to share Matt's kind words with her. Needless to say she was touched! Her reply, "Mom, why do you think I travel from Long Island for him to see me?" The call that I had to make after learning of his passing was so sad and after the shock wore off it was summed up, "There won't ever be another like him!
Chris Enright
January 22, 2014
My condolences to Gary and the entire Cullen family. The BC theatre gang surely benefited from the kindness and generosity of the Cullens back in the day! Matt had a witty urbanity that was so rare for the suburbs! A real gem. His presence will be missed, yet his spirit will be reflected in all of us. Rest in peace, dear friend.
John Plummer
January 22, 2014
My deepest sympathies to the Cullen family and to Gary. Matthew was not only a pleasure to be around but, a truly compassionate and considerate person as well. The Plummer family will always remember his kindness (a trait he carried on from his parents). He will be greatly missed by many people.
Yvette Rosenkrantz-Stoker
January 22, 2014
My prom date and best friend all through high school, 35 years of friendship - so hard to say goodbye. So happy he had a life full of love from his family, his friends and Gary, heaven is a happier place. Love you Chew
Hal & Betsy Maxwell
January 22, 2014
We are tremendously saddened to hear the news of Matt's passing - he was not just a wonderful dentist, he was a phenomenal person. His love of life, theatre, music, arts, people and his patients made seeing him a joy. He brightened all of our lives and we will miss him very much. His partner and family will be in our thoughts, prayers and hearts. Hal & Betsy Maxwell & family
January 22, 2014
The entire Casey family was saddened to hear of Matthews passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Cullen family.
Dr. Bryan and Jodi Massoud
January 22, 2014
We met Matt and Gary when we moved next door to them 14 years ago. We became friends instantly. We had a family "call sound" we would holler out the window most any time day or night...just to say hi! We attended each others parties or just walked across our yard into theirs just to say hi. We went to Fire Island and were blessed to go to Matt's 40th birthday in Mexico. We laughed so hard our faces hurt after that trip. Matt supplied most of the comedy with his beautiful sense of humor and infectious laugh. Bryan and I surprised Matt with a new birthday outfit neatly wrapped and secretly put in his suite each morning! we had so much fun together. It is with a broken heart I sign this guest book. But sharing our stories and memories will keep his memory alive and hopefully lend some comfort. To Gary, our hearts and prayers are with. Our entire family is here for you...whatever you may need. To Matt's family please accept our deepest condolences at your loss. Matt will forever remain in our hearts and be a shining light. With sincere love, Jodi and Bryan Massoud
Allison Corbett
January 22, 2014
So shocked and sad to learn about Matt. Loved Matt, and loved spending time with Gary and Matt. Sympathy and love to Gary and the rest of the Cullen family.
Jim Motroni and family
January 21, 2014
Like all of these postings, we found the news to be shocking beyond shock. To read how Matt touched so many people in such a profound and joyful way just confirms our experience of him. We trust that his memory will remain as sweet and that we are all called to pay forward the delight he brought to us.
Our deepest sympathies and condolences to Gary, Uncle Len, Brian, Maureen and Eileen and all who called Matt a friend.
January 21, 2014
I met Matthew thru his sister Eileen, when we were in High School. Although he was a bit younger then us, Matt was always included in whatever we did because he was so much fun. We spent a lot of time just driving around, eating and laughing our heads off for hours. Watch over your loved ones Matthew and sprinkle some smiles thru their memories. Nancy G
Michael Robbins
January 21, 2014
Deepest sympathy to the entire Cullen family. Matthew was a fine young man. He worked for me on Cape Cod in the mid '80's. I will always remember him for his kindness and integrity.
grace durdunas
January 21, 2014
Maureen and family so shocked to learn of Matthew's passing. I just was at the office 2 weeks ago. The Siliato family has been with his dad 50 years and continued with Matt when he took over the practice. God has received another remarkable man. Why so young do not understand. We lost Robert 4 months as go Maureen , and unfortunately can feel your pain. The whole Cullen family we consider as part of our own. The Siliato family extends all our love and sorrow to your entire family. Love the Siliato Family
grace durdunas
January 21, 2014
to the entire Cullen family. I am beyond words and so shocked to learn about matt's passing. We had been a part of your family practice for55 years and think of you all as part of our family. Matthew was such an incredtiable man and enjoyed talking and.catching up with him on all sorts of things. My prayers and so much love to your entire family. God has taken another wonderful man too early as my brother robert silIato as well. The Entire Siliato Family. We will always remember Matt in our hearts much love xoxox
Vicky Frankel
January 21, 2014
Gary and I came to teach in NJ around the same time and for the same reason--LOVE!! We had moved to the area so we could live with our husbands, although Gary and Matt had not yet married then. The only comfort I can find is to know that Gary and Matt shared a beautiful love and life together, and Matt had the privilege of living with one of the kindest and best men I've ever known. Other than that thought, I weep for Gary and for the Cullen family and friends. Whatever I could do to lighten each day, I will be there for Gary, my dear colleague.
Regina Somma-Monahan
January 21, 2014
This is so hard to comprehend. I went to school with Matthew and his Dad was my Dentist when I was growing up. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. May Matthew be resting peacefully in the arms of our Lord.
Dave Middleton
January 21, 2014
Gary we are so sorry. Losing family members is 2nd to none. While my memories of you are periodic due to distance & generations, ourfamily feels for you during this time in life. Your lead for all the Middletons' with ancestory dot com illustrate yoour value of family. Aunt Marjorie sends her love as well. God bless in these upcoming months. May you gain strength from something so tough.
Craig Charie
January 21, 2014
Carl and I are with you in thought during this time of profound sadness.
Peter and Lance
January 21, 2014
Our hearts go out to you Gary. Matt's love of life and outgoing personality among the many other blessings he brought to us all will be greatly missed.
Sheryl and Marco Middleton
January 21, 2014
We are so sorry. Matt will be sincerely missed. Know that we love you and are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Sheryl and Marco
Lynn & Chris Ballerini
January 21, 2014
Chris and I are so sad to hear of Matt's passing. Chris and his family have been patients of both Dr. Cullens since the 50's. When I married my husband and moved to NJ 15 years ago, Matt became my dentist and I loved him. He would always ask about the family and loved hearing my stories about our adventures. Matt had a Joy de vie that I hope everyone will remember for the rest of our lives. He may be gone but his spirit will live on in all of us. Our deepest condolences to everyone who knew and loved him.
diane langmuir
January 21, 2014
Dear Gary, Just heard this sad news and want you to know my heart goes out to you during this difficult time. Diane Langmuir
Russell Bonifay
January 21, 2014
My friend Gary,
From our first introduction I knew you as "Matt and Gary." I seldom saw you when Matt was not by your side. You were so good for each other and so good to all of your friends. My sorrow for your loss is heartfelt.
Nancy Somma-Arienta
January 21, 2014
My heartfelt condolences to the entire Cullen family, loved ones and friends! You all will be in my family's prayers during this extremely difficult time.
January 20, 2014
The day I met Matthew In school I knew we would be friends for life. When he introduced us all to Gary the circle of love and friendship grew. All our lives are a little less bright today. Gary know that you are loved, now and always by Matthew and all of us.
Christopher (& Bradley Ciliberto)
Jess Reeves
January 20, 2014
My heart breaks for Matt's family and friends. May God comfort you in this challenging time.
January 20, 2014
Sincerely sorry to you and family.So shocked at this news today.I was with the Cullen family for 50 years this year! My heart and prayers go out to Gary and family. Dennis Ferrara & husband Andrew Paparozzi. ( Saddle Brook, N.J )
Tom Middleton
January 20, 2014
Dear Cousin Gary,
Needless to say, I am in shock like everyone else. Be strong and get through this. I am thinking of you all the time.
Your cousin,
Tom Middleton
Austin, Texas
Shakeh Tashjian
January 20, 2014
My sincerest condolences, Gary. I imagine nothing is able to ease your pain at a time like this, but I hope you know that you are loved and that we are all here for you. I loved hearing you talk about Matt, because your love for him was so obvious. Absolutely beautiful. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Carla Moriarty
January 20, 2014
So sorry for your loss Gary & family.... My heart goes out to you ??
Rachel Brusky
January 20, 2014
My thoughts, prayers, and heart are with you at this difficult time. I am so sorry for your sudden loss and wish you much peace, love, and healing through the grieving process. With Deepest Sympathy, Rachel
Kerry Burke
January 20, 2014
My thoughts & prayers go out to Dr. Cullen & his family, I'm so shocked by this. He was a great dentist & I will miss him tremendously.
Maria McDowell
January 20, 2014
Maureen & Family,
I am so very sorry to hear the news about Dr. Cullen. He was such an awesome dentist and me & my family are heartbroken. I will never forget his beautiful smile and silliness. Sending much love to you and your family at this time.
Maria & Scott McDowell
Barb Gallagher
January 20, 2014
I was a patient of Dr. Cullen Sr. and told him that there could no better dentist. Then he retired and Matt took over. What a joy to be his patient. I've always said "I love going to my dentist" and it was because of what a wonderful, jovial person Matt was. Even though I threatened to bite him if he hurt me, I never had to! I will miss him terribly and send my deepest sympathy and love to his family. This world has suffered a great loss.......
January 20, 2014
As one of his patients, I am in total shock to hear of the passing of Dr. Matt. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, loved one, and staff at this time of sorrow. My family will greatly miss his happiness and humor. God bless you Matt.
Joyce Campbell
Phyllis Tozzi
January 20, 2014
My sympathies go out to Matt's family and friends. Matt was a great dentist and I never left that office without a smile on my face. My friends could never understand how much I didn't mind going to the dentist. I was there just before the holidays and he was in rare form. Knowing Matt since grammar school makes this harder. I will miss him. I can only imagine how shocked and grief stricken his family and friends are. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Catherine Vodrey
January 20, 2014
Adored and will miss Matt terribly, as you know. So glad you both were at our wedding last May! Matt was in fine form then, as always, talking, laughing, enjoying Gary's company and the splendid weather. Much love to you.
Bob Schwab
January 20, 2014
My thoughts and prayers go out to Matt and Gary's families. Heaven is a funnier place with Matt's quick wit and biting sense of humor. May His peace and grace comfort you in your time of grace.
Toni
January 20, 2014
You have my deepest sympathy. May the good memories of Matthew provide consolation for your family during this challenging time; and may God provide you with the assurance that you will see your loved one again in Paradise. John 17:3
Maryann Duggan
January 20, 2014
We will miss Dr. Mat Cullen. He was always smiling and happy. Gone much too soon. What will we do without him? Rest In Peace. Sympathies with his family. I remember his dad was a .
patient for over 40 yrs. God Bless.
Donna Hittel
January 20, 2014
As one of his patients, I can only imagine the shock and grief his family, staff and friends are feeling today. Every single one of my visits to my dentist was filled with laughter and fun. I don't know how many dental patients can say that about their dentist. I will miss him terribly.
Showing 1 - 65 of 65 results
Make a Donation
in Matthew Cullen's name
Memorial Events
for Matthew Cullen
Funeral services provided by:
Becker Funeral Home - Westwood219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ 07675
How to support Matthew's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Matthew Cullen's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
