Matonis, David M. – Cochran Funeral

David M. Matonis, Age 54, died on December 31,2022 at his home. He is the son of the late Robert Matonis, Sr. and Angela (Scocozza) Matonis.

David is survived by his mother Angela Matonis, one brother Robert Matonis, Jr. and 2 nieces, Reece and Rory Matonis.

All services are private at this time at the request of the family. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Cochran Funeral Home 905 High Street, Hackettstown, N.J. 07840.

10 Condolences for Matonis, David M.

Condolences(10)

Cindy Alexy says

January 3, 2023 at 4:01 pm

Dear Mrs. Matonis, Robert, Reece and Rory,
Please accept my sincere condolences in the loss of your son, brother and uncle.
As a parent in the district and member of the G&T Parent Association (APEX), I worked with David for many years. He was a great leader and mentor who always tried to put children first.
There were times that we disagreed about something but we listened to each other’s concerns and opinions and concluded that we can agree to disagree. Often times his hands were tied by the administration.
David was too young to pass. I can only imagine what his loss is like. Please know that he as well as you are in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult and sad time. He will be greatly missed.
With deepest sympathy, Cindy Alexy

Nancy Burke says

January 3, 2023 at 4:25 pm

Mrs. Matonis, Robert, Reece, and Rory. We are neighbors of Dave and were so sorry to hear of his passing. We always loved seeing him outside with his dogs. My son Eric did odd jobs for him for many years and he always said what a kind man he was. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for your family. Sincerely, Dick and Nancy Burke

Scott & Debbie Schlomer says

January 3, 2023 at 4:29 pm

We are so sorry for your loss. We pray for comfort and healing at this time.

David Nikstaitis says

January 3, 2023 at 11:11 pm

David & Emily

As neighbors of David, We would like to wish our condolences to the Matonis family in your time of grief, while we have only been neighbors of David a few years and had only a few brief neighborly communications, we enjoyed seeing David’s little dogs out on their regular walks in the yard, very sorry for your loss.

Sincerely, David & Emily

Henry A Matonis Jr says

January 4, 2023 at 6:22 pm

I can never fully express how great of a person David was, but I wanted to share some thoughts. Growing up he was an excellent student, artist, and Eagle Scout. As he became older, I remember him going to Drew U and then further along to Rutgers. Then he became an incredible English teacher and Administrator, which is probably how many people will remember him.

My memories of David go back to when I was a child…I remember him giving me my first Star Wars action figures, along with Atari games. Then he was my Confirmation Sponsor, college essay proofreader, and took me on a tour of the Seton Hall campus. There are countless more memories…Christmas Eves, our various conversations, and his caring of many, many, many pets.

David was a tremendously, generous person to me, who will be sorely missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

David – Thank you for all that you did, God Bless you, and Rest In Peace.

Jim and Palma Challandes says

January 5, 2023 at 6:10 pm

David Matonis was an incredible person who will be sorely missed by everyone who had the pleasure of getting to know him. An educator for more than thirty years, David understood the importance of always putting children first, and his passion and idealism have inspired generations of teachers and students.

David was a friend and mentor to us and a role model to our three children. He was a selfless man, and we are better people because he was an important part of our lives.

Thank you, David, for the impact you have left on this world.

Eric Burke says

January 5, 2023 at 6:25 pm

Matonis Family,

I want to extend my sincere condolences to you all. I was Dave’s neighbor growing up and eventually did odd jobs for him for several years. Knowing how extremely generous and kind he was, I think he was doing me a favor as much as I thought I was doing one for him.

David was one of the kindest people I knew. His beloved dogs lived better than most humans, which is a testament to his selflessness. I am thankful to have known him, and I am confident he is watching over his family and friends.

Can’t thank you enough, David!

Sam Nazzaro says

January 6, 2023 at 1:16 am

Rob, I am so sorry for your family’s loss. My prayers are with you all. May God bless David and welcome him to eternal peace.

Cindy Nurse says

February 1, 2023 at 11:33 am

David was my supervisor for many years. He was a true leader; caring, compassionate, supportive, and so, so smart. Not only was he an advocate for students, but also for those who worked with them. I thoroughly enjoyed his observations as I knew he would highlight the positive, give helpful feedback, offer meaningful suggestions, and find time to listen to all of my thoughts and rants. At the end of his meetings he blended his knowledge, experience, and supportiveness into stories and messages from the heart. This allowed us to know him better and motivated us to do all we could to leave a positive mark in a student’s life.
I love and miss you David Matonis. You definitely made a positive mark on my life.

Christine Musser (nee Merrikin) says

September 1, 2023 at 3:20 pm

I am so sad to hear of David’s passing. Dave was my best friend in high school and i only now learned of his death. There was no one like him. Incredibly kind, thoughtful, creative and funny. I will miss him terribly.

Matonis, David M. October 26, 1968 - December 31, 2022