Matthew Michael Klimovich

Matthew Michael Klimovich, 52, of Bristol, surrounded by the loving embrace of his family, peacefully departed this world on March 13, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering dedication, compassion, and selfless service. A beloved husband, distinguished paramedic, and treasured friend, Matt exemplified what it truly means to live a life devoted to the welfare of others. Born on a spring day in 1972, Matt was the cherished son of Mary Lou (Schilkowski) Klimovich of Southington and the late Carl Klimovich. Raised in the close-knit community of Seymour, Matt's formative years hinted at the extraordinary person he would become. A natural athlete, he excelled on the football field throughout his educational journey starting with middle school, high school and then college and was a valuable member of his high school swim team. His leadership qualities blossomed during his time at Nichols College, where he made an indelible mark by establishing the institution's first fire department-a testament to his visionary spirit and innate calling to protect others. Matt's illustrious career as a first responder spanned over a quarter-century, during which he served with distinction as both a firefighter and paramedic. His unwavering commitment to public safety manifested through his service with the Derby Fire Department and his pivotal role as Chief Director of Seymour Ambulance Association. For nearly two decades, Bristol Hospital became not just his workplace but a second home-and fortuitously, the place where he would meet Michelle Ferraro, the woman who would become his cherished wife and soul mate. Together, Matt and Michelle forged both a loving partnership and a professional collaboration, establishing CT Training Solutions. For fifteen years, this enterprise became a beacon of hope in the community, empowering countless individuals with life-saving skills and knowledge. In 2017, Matt brought his wealth of experience and compassionate approach to AMR, where he served the communities of Farmington and surrounding towns as a dedicated paramedic until his final days. Even when confronted with formidable health challenges, Matt's indomitable spirit never faltered. He faced adversity with remarkable stoicism and unwavering optimism, never once permitting a complaint to cross his lips. His boundless energy found expression in his masterful carpentry skills, transforming ordinary spaces into works of functional art through his meticulous home improvement projects. A skilled outdoorsman, Matt found solace and joy in nature's embrace-whether hunting in tranquil woods, perfecting his swing on verdant golf courses, honing his marksmanship at the shooting range, or feeling the exhilarating freedom of the open road on his beloved Suzuki Boulevard. The annual pilgrimages to Block Island with Michelle became sacred traditions, as did the holiday celebrations shared with her children, whom he embraced as his own. A passionate sports enthusiast, Matt's unwavering loyalty to the Dallas Cowboys and NY Yankees never diminished, even during challenging seasons. Matt's absence leaves an unfillable void in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him, yet his spirit endures in every life he touched, every person he saved, and every skill he imparted. He leaves behind a constellation of loving survivors: his constant mother Mary Lou; his treasured wife Michelle; Michelle's children whom he cherished as his own, Jeffrey Michael Ferraro and Gabrielle Ferraro; brother and sister-in-law Jeffrey and Susan Kallenbach who have been unwavering in their love and support; and an extended network of family and friends who became family-his childhood confidant Jack Coddington; his chosen sister Cassie Culver; his hunting companions Bob Culver, Dave Wallace, and Peter Janick; and his golf buddies PJ Amato, Preston Williams, Joe Carosella and Jamie Schilkowski. Matt joins his brother Christopher Klimovich, who preceded him in eternal rest. Michelle extends her heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Hari Deshpande, Matt's dedicated oncologist from Yale, the oncology nurses for their dedication to Matt during his treatment who were an unwavering advocate for Matt and Michelle, especially Sunshine Sousa, and the compassionate teams of doctors and nurses in the ICU at UCONN Medical Center, whose exceptional care provided comfort during Matt's final journey. Michelle is especially grateful to Senior Operation Supervisor, John Kirby, for providing both guidance and friendship when she needed it most. To honor Matt's profound love for animals, the family suggests memorial contributions to Wolcott Animal Control, 775 Boundline Rd, Wolcott, CT 06716. Those wishing to celebrate Matt's extraordinary life are invited to gather on Friday, March 21, 2025, from 4-7 p.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville. Funeral services will commence on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. from Plainville Funeral Home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. at St. Gregory the Great Church, 235 Maltby St, Bristol. A private burial will be held at the family's discretion. For online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com. Though he has departed from our sight, the light of Matt's compassion continues to illuminate our path forward. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Matthew Michael Klimovich, please visit our floral store.