Brooks Patterson Matyi, 76 passed away at home in Orlando on March 11 after a long illness.
He is survived by his loving wife, Sarah (Lavelle), sons Steven Matyi (Aurora) and Luke Matyi (Danielle), and his grandchildren Violet, Sylvia, Austin, and Sawyer. Brooks was predeceased by his father, Steve A. Matyi, Jr., Mother, June Patterson, and Sister, Melissa ("Lisa") Cover.
Brooks was born in Indiana, grew up near Philadelphia, lived many years in New England, Texas and lastly Florida. He served proudly in the US Marine Corps during the Vietnam War and saw combat at Mutter's Ridge. He retired from the US Department of the Navy as a civilian Financial Analyst.
Brooks was a modern renaissance man with varied hobbies and interests including photography, automobiles, motorcycles, coffee roasting, fine wines, and gardening. He could repair any mechanical device. He read 20th century history voraciously and loved blasting rock and roll along with classical music. An animal lover, he had many pets and loved none more than his rescue tabby cat Bucket, a snuggly comfort in his last months.
A graduate of the University of Connecticut, he loved watching UConn's championship Basketball teams, and thrilled at the success of the New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox.
Above all, he treasured his sons and their families, along with Sarah's children and extended family. Brooks touched many lives with his hospitality and generosity. Among them his fellow ECHO 2/3 Platoon mates, SupShip colleagues and the 'Jamokes' of Windsor Hills, with whom he spent many happy times. He will be sorely missed by family, friends, and neighbors.
Brooks will be buried at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at 9:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the USMC Toys for Tots program near you.