MT. UPTON – Matt O’Hara, 38, of Mt. Upton, passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 1, 2011, the day before his dad’s birthday.
Matt was born on Jan. 6, 1973 in Sidney, on his mom’s birthday, the New Years Baby of 1973. He graduated from Gilbertsville Mount Upton Central School with the class of 1991. At GMU, Matt was an avid athlete, playing soccer and basketball, and was also the Junior Prom King in 1990. Matt loved to participate in the annual variety shows and was a member of the Mt. Upton Halloweeners. He worked at Shupes Auto Sales from 1991 until 1995, when he went into business with his dad, opening All Star Automotive in Mt. Upton, where he worked ever since.
Matt enjoyed being a part of the pit crew and was a sponsor for several local race teams. They also sponsored many local youth sporting events. In addition to supporting local teams, Matt also coached his daughter’s soccer team and his son’s t-ball team. Matt was an enthusiastic New York Mets and San Francisco 49ers fan.
Matt was a large part of the community and was loved by all. He always made people laugh with his quick wit and sense of humor. He will be dearly missed but will remain in the hearts of each and every one of us.
Matt is survived by: the love of his life, Lee Mangiamele, daughters, Cassie and Kaden and son, Owen; his parents Daniel “Booner” and Kathy (Weis) O’Hara; sisters Tracey, Danette and Betsy; brothers Shawn and Travis; as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Friends were invited to call on Saturday, Feb. 5 from noon to 2 p.m. at C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, 21 Main St. Sidney. Funeral services followed at 2 p.m. at the funeral chapel with Rev. Joseph Acanfora officiating. Following the service, the family received friends at the Mt. Upton Fire Hall.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Matthew O’Hara’s children c/o NBT Bank 13 Division Street Sidney, NY 13838. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.landersfh.com.
Arrangements under the direction of C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, 21 Main St. Sidney.