Matthew Leon Depaoli

Matthew Leon DePaoli, 44, of Lemoyne died Friday, Sept. 17, 2021, at his home.

He was a longtime Senior Civil Engineer with PennDOT after graduating from Red Land High School and then Temple University with a degree in civil engineering.

Unconcerned with much of life’s pettiness, Matt instead naturally focused his energies on making friends and family laugh and feel welcomed. Throughout his far-too-short 44 years, he accomplished this by passionately engaging in activities like volleyball and working out; immersing himself into the Marvel Universe, video games and some of the best television shows and movies; and pursuing and indulging in delicious vegetarian-friendly food.

Mostly, though, Matt was an awesome force in the lives of those fortunate enough to call him family or friend. His infectious sense of humor was unmatched in its originality and unapologetic in its mischievousness.

But overshadowing every hilarious observation or action was his sincerity, compassion and unwavering support for those he loved. Be in awe of those who are cherished by children and animals, and that was Matt. From his parents’ persnickety Pomeranian named Tia when he was a kid, to, most recently, his beloved cats Monkey and Leopard – pets inherently knew their worlds were better with Matt as caretaker.

Sharing that same level of devotion were his beloved nephew and niece, Davin and Skyler, who were drawn to Matt’s childlike wonder and humor. If you were decent and heartful, Matt was your indisputable ally.

To various people, Matt represented various things.

To his father, Matt was his rock, his chief companion and somebody who made him laugh and smile. His mother observed with pride the growth of Matt and his closest friends. His brother Dave’s memory bank is full of being party and witness to so many fearless, entertaining moments.

Lynn, the oldest sister, recalls Matt’s understated but unquestionable artistic talent, which he frequently used to draw hilarious caricatures and scenes. To his youngest sister, Tiff, it was Matt’s mindfulness, never-ending encouragement, mentorship and loyalty that made him her hero.

To his friends, Matt’s irreverent sense of humor, his kindness, sensitivity and competitiveness, his selflessness and willingness to accept all as they are, stood out even more than his innate ability to read hitters’ intentions on the volleyball court. Everyone lucky enough to cross his path also adored the radiance of his smile.

Matt will be missed – fiercely – by so many.

He was born Aug. 9, 1977, in Camp Hill to Eugene and Karen Ann (Powell) DePaoli.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his siblings, David E. “Sparky” DePaoli of Pensacola, Florida; Lynsay A. DePaoli of Tremont; and Tiffany R. DePaoli of Hanover, Maryland; a nephew and niece, Davin and Skyler Keck of Harrisburg; a nephew on the way; and many aunts and uncles.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions – in the name of the contributor or in the name of your favorite Marvel character – can be made to a GoFundMe set up by Matt’s family, which will be used to settle his affairs and organize a springtime celebration of his life and extraordinary impact on those in his orbit. Details of the celebration, which will undoubtedly feature volleyball and vegetarian sushi, will be announced later. The link to Matt's GoFundMe is: https://gofund.me/fbf41c4e.

In honor of Matt, be accepting, be supportive, be present, be kind and, most importantly, make people laugh. That’s especially true if you or a loved one is struggling with mental health, with substance abuse, with illness or injury, with job loss, or whatever the volleyball gods decide to present as hurdles in our brief time on this planet. There is strength, courage and humanity in the love we give and the love we receive.