Obituaries

Robert J. Mattioli Jr., 62, of Taylor, died Thursday at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center after a short but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born on March 11, 1959, and raised in Taylor, he was the son of the late Robert J. Sr. and Odelia “Dee” (Talalai) Mattioli. A graduate of Riverside High School, he furthered his education with a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Pittsburgh before earning his master’s degree in education from the University of Scranton. As a longtime educator at both St. Michael’s School and Pa. Treatment & Healing, he was able to have a lasting impact on the lives of countless students.
Robert lived for his family, especially his children, whom he absolutely adored. He was an amazing cook, known for his homemade raisin bread, lasagna and incomparable spinach pizza, as well as his many homegrown fruits and vegetables. Robert had many hobbies, including watching golf, coaching football, and fishing with his son and younger brother Tony. He was one of the most caring individuals to those he loved most, especially his canine best friends.
He’ll be forever loved and missed by his family and friends.
He is survived by his adoring family: children, Christina Mattioli, Philadelphia; Deanna Mattioli, Doylestown; Samantha, Robert J. III and Catherine Mattioli, all of Throop; close niece, Mariah Mattioli, Pittston; his siblings, Sandra Wright, Old Forge; Maria Nash and husband, William, Taylor; Anthony Mattioli, Taylor; and Joseph Mattioli and wife, Mary Beth, of North Carolina; and many loving nieces and nephews.
He was also preceded in death by a brother, Mark Mattioli; and a brother-in-law, Brian Wright.
Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday at 11 a.m. in St. Ann’s Basilica, West Scranton, with burial to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Old Forge.
Family and friends may pay their respects Friday from 10 to 11 a.m. until Mass at the church. Those attending the funeral are asked to go directly to the church.
Arrangements are under the care of the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home Inc., 517 N. Main St., Old Forge.