Matthew F. Tornambe
5/20/2014
Matthew F. (Matty) Tornambe, 91, of Scranton, died Tuesday May 20th at VNA Hospice, Geisinger CMC.
His first wife, Victoria Lancia Tornambe and his second wife, Shirley Snyder Tornambe, preceded him in death.
Born in Scranton, he is the son of the late Liborio (Joe) and Clara Tornambe. He was a 1941 graduate of Scranton Central High School. Matty served with the U.S. Army and U.S. Army Air Corps in World War II for which he received the Bronze Star for service and Infantry Badge.
Matty proudly worked at the Crystal Soda Water Company of Scranton for 64 years. He was named “The Whiz of Fizz” by the Scranton Times-Tribune in an article published several years ago that chronicled his many years in the soda business. He was also employed by Jefferson Townhouse Catering of Scranton.
He was a member of St. Paul of the Cross Parish and St. Francis of Assisi Parish in South Scranton.
He was an active volunteer in the St. Francis of Assisi Parish community, most notably with its “Pasta Pranzo” dinner. He previously served as president of Dante Literary Society in South Scranton; he was also named “Honorary Chairman” for his many years of volunteering with the Steamtown Marathon, and was a dedicated volunteer for the Connell Park Little League in South Scranton.
Matty will be remembered by his family and friends for his love of food and cooking, his interest in home improvement and remodeling, and his commitment and love for his family; especially his grandchildren.
The family would like to thank Dr. Wayne Weston, the VNA Hospice team, and the 8th floor Telemetry team at Geisinger CMC for the care Matty received during his brief illness.
Matty is survived by two sons; Matthew and wife Karen of Port Royal, Richard and wife Michele of Scranton; his daughter Angela and husband Mark Reed of Scranton; his grandchildren, Richard, Michael, Gregory, Victoria, Matthew, Kayla, Lexa, Ava, Kristen, Katelyn, Allison, and Thomas; and two sisters, Ethel Gatelli and Francis Paranich, both of Scranton. A brother, Paul, preceded him in death.
A Mass of Christian Burial, celebrated by Father Scott Sterowski, will be held on Saturday at 10:00am at St. Paul of the Cross Parish, St. Francis of Assisi Church, 630 Genet Street in South Scranton.
Interment will be held with Military Honors in the Cathedral Cemetery, Scranton.
Family and friends may call Friday from 4:00-7:00pm at the Vanston and James Funeral Home, 1401 Ash Street, Scranton.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like memorial contributions made to the VNA Hospice of Lackawanna County, 301 Delaware Ave., Olyphant, PA. 18447, or St. Paul of the Cross Parish, 1217 Prospect Ave., Scranton, PA. 18505.
To send an online condolence or directions, www.vanstonandjames.com
John & Paulette Fargione, Claire Lancia
Matthew, Rick & Family, No one can prepare you for a loss especially when it comes so quickly. But take comfort in knowing that your dad/ grandfather is now resting in the arms of our Lord. Our deepest condolences to all of you.
Michael,Christie and Jeffrey Cianci
Matthew ,Rick ,our condolences to you and your families. Your Dad lived a full life,and a productive on too;but we always mourn our love ones passing.
I fondly remember the days I worked with him as a summer “college kid” at Crystal Soda . He used to say to me “hey college kid,this to tuff for you” as I slugged those cases in endless high stacks; but he always did it with his usual smile and a pat. Rest in peace uncle Matty you will be missed.