Matthew M. Scannell-Brown

Matthew Mclaren "Matt" Scannell-Brown had his final dance just after sunrise on Saturday, January 4, 2025, shortly after waking to start his day. Tragically, Matt's vibrant journey was abruptly halted when he unexpectedly succumbed to a heart attack at UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital, leaving us heartbroken at the young age of 44. Matt was born on August 11, 1980, in the Olympic Village of Lake Placid, NY, to Lorinda and Frank Scannell. 

For Matt, life was a thrilling adventure constantly bursting with passion and joy. Whether he was cooking up a gourmet meal while destroying the kitchen or racing motorcycles at exhilarating speeds along winding roads or the backwoods or engaged in the physically demanding work of logging amidst the towering trees, he was always in pursuit of the next adrenaline rush. His vibrant spirit truly shone the brightest on dance floors, where he could often be found moving with infectious exuberance at every opportunity, embracing the chance to express himself through rhythm and melody. In a fateful turn of events in 2018, in Oneonta, Matt discovered his soulmate, Kristina. They officially became a couple on January 4th, 2019 and were married on August 23rd in Neahwa Park, Oneonta, NY, where friends and family gathered to bear witness to their union. Together, they embarked on a journey filled with love and adventure in their new home located in Norwich, NY, a space they filled with love, laughter, dance, and many great memories.

Matt was predeceased by his father, Frank Scannell. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kristina Scannell; step children Easton Ortiz and Josh Ortiz; his loving mother, Lorinda Scannell; and his siblings: Patrick (Tami) Scannell, Jay(Emily) Scannell, John (Michelle) Scannell, Shannon (Al) Parmlee, Margarita Scannell, and Paul Scannell and his nieces Mackenzie Scannell, Sloane Scannell, Stella Scannell, Mira Hayes, Addison Scannell, and nephews Dylan Bruce and Ian Bruce—each of whom holds a piece of his vibrant spirit alive in their hearts with a commitment to carry on his zest for life in their daily lives. Matt's unexpected leaving has created a huge gap for all of us who were lucky to know him. It’s not just that we miss him; it really shows how much he influenced our lives, from building lasting friendships, to making unforgettable memories together, to constantly reminding us what matters most in life each day. During this tough time, we truly hope his family and friends can find some solace and strength in the lovely moments filled with his twinkling eyes, laughter, and kindness. As we navigate this difficult period, we hope all that knew him can find comfort in remembering the happy times they had together, and that those cherished memories give them some peace as they cope with their loss.

We will gather to celebrate Matt's enthralling life on a date and location that is yet to be confirmed. In alignment with his endless enthusiasm for spreading joy and nurturing connections, the family invites everyone to honor his memory by engaging in activities that spark their happiness and to share that joy with those around them, thereby perpetuating the love and warmth that Matt so effortlessly embodied. Just dance…

Funeral arrangements were entrusted with the Wilson Funeral Home.