FRANKLIN: Matthew B. Fontaine

Matthew B. Fontaine known to many as Mattso - passed away peacefully May 7th 2026, at his home in Port St Lucie, FL, with his wife Cheryl by his side. Matthew was born on March 8, 1959, in Milford MA, spent his life in Franklin MA until retiring to Florida in 2019.

It’s safe to say Matt was born with hockey skates on his feet and a baseball in his hand. You could always find Matt on the ice or on the baseball field. He was a devoted player, and later as a coach and umpire, who inspired and encouraged others.

Matt spent 40 years as a grocery assistant manager and retired from Stop and Shop in 2019. His work ethic, kindness, and ability to connect with people left a lasting impression on his colleagues and customers alike.

Nothing made Matt happier than traveling and spending time with his friends and family. You could often find him at the dog or horse track, soaking up the excitement with friends, or relaxing by the pool, having cookouts, going to Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics or Bruins games was always a passion of his, or a round of golf with friends or family.

Matt is survived by his beloved wife, Cheryl (Coppolino) Fontaine, his loving mother, Joan (Langston) Fontaine, and his sister, Donna (Fontaine) Gavel

Matthew was the proud stepfather of Eric Stefanik and his wife Lindsey, and Jason Stefanik and his fiancée Marta. He was a devoted grandfather to Kaela, Moriah, Nathanael, Jayden, Jordyn, Laura, Gabriel, and Liliana. A man who truly cherished his role as Grandpa, Matt loved attending their games, challenging them with math problems, listening to them name the flags of the world, or just watching them run around.

He is also survived by his nephews, Sean McInnis, and Dana Gavel and his niece, Nicole Gavel. His two brothers-in-law Anthony, and John Coppolino.

He was predeceased by his father Matthew Fontaine, his brother Bruce Fontaine, and nephew Paul McInnis.

A celebration of Matt’s life will be held at a private setting per his request. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations to be made to Hospice, or Alzheimer’s Association.

Matt’s presence was a gift, his laughter unforgettable, his love unwavering His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

[Information courtesy of Affordable Cremation]