Matt was a talented entertainer, musician, and comedian, who touched many in his lifetime in a positive way. His infectious smile would light up a room, and his positive attitude and courage were admirable.
Matt was born on December 10, 1971 in Canonsburg, PA, the son of Michael (Mike Sr.) and Margaret (Peggy) Cage Alterio. He was a 1990 graduate of Canon-McMillan High School, and a graduate of Point Park University with a degree in Performing Arts Management. On June 11, 2005, he married his wife, Mara Jobes Alterio. He was an entertainer at Sing-Sing Dueling Pianos in Pittsburgh.
In October, 2010, Matt was diagnosed with cancer of "unknown origin". Although doctors had said it would be impossible to conceive due to Matt's chemo treatments, Matt and Mara were blessed with a "miracle" baby boy, Noah, born August 15, 2013.
For over 4 years, Matt courageously battled cancer. Through it all, he remained passionate about life and family, and discouraged others from grieving over his condition. During his treatments, he wore a Superman shirt which portrayed his incredible strength under very difficult circumstances.He passed away on November 30, 2014, at 42 years of age. Matt was truly our hero and an inspiration to family and friends in his lifetime and beyond.
This foundation will be one of many ways that Matt's legacy will be carried on. As Noah grows older, he will come to realize and know the loving and courageous man that is his Dad.
Good morning. Thank you everyone for being here today.
If our true character is measured by what we contribute to the lives of others, the compassion we show to those around us and strength we demonstrate during our own greatest challenges, than I confident that today we are remembering the life of one of the finest people most of us will ever know.
Nate Alterio
Matt's Story
"Coming Soon"
Michael Alterio, Jr.
Tributes to Matt
The following are the tributes given by Matt's brothers, Michael and Mark, and Matt's sister, Michelle, and cousin, Nate, at Matt’s funeral Service on December 05, 2014, held at St. Patrick's Parish in Canonsburg, PA.
Articles published about Matt
C-M grad battles cancer of "unknown origin", page 12, Observer Publishing Co.
I’m Michelle, Matt’s sister. One look around this morning says more about Matthew than anyone could put into words. Every one of us is special to Matthew in our own way and he has touched all of our lives in a way that cannot be explained.
Michelle Alterio Krol
Hello, I’m Mark, Matt’s 2nd oldest brother. I was thinking of what Matt would want for me to say to all of you today, and I could hear him say, “Mark, whatever you do, please keep it short and simple, because everyone knows how you have a tendency to…well, you know…”
Mark Alterio
MAFF Foundation ©