Matthew J. Grigas

Matthew J. Grigas, 74, of Brookfield, a breeder of championship hunting dogs, passed away on Tuesday, March 22, 2016, surrounded by loving family, at Mass General Hospital.  Matthew is survived by his loving wife, Donna L. (Dow) Grigas; two sons, Matthew J. Grigas, III, of Willard, Ohio, and John M. Grigas and his wife Linda of Holden; a daughter, Donna M. Grigas of Cotuit; two step-daughters, Tracy C. Harrity and her husband James of North Hampton, and Cynthia A. Turner of Burlington, CT; four grandchildren, Michael, Mark, Tyler, and Nicole; two great grandchildren, Jett and Aston; two step-grandchildren, Simon and Macklin; and his former wife, Beverly (Klund) Giardini and her husband Ralph of Cotuit.  Matthew was born in Boston, son of the late Matthew J. and Joan (Savino) Grigas; and grew up in Stoughton, later graduating from Stoughton High School, later attending Northeastern University.  Matthew lived an active and full life.  He worked for many years as a transportation manager and Vice President of Distribution for Quinn Transportation, before his retirement.  Not being one to relax, he then took a job at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Brighton, where he worked as a courier for laboratory services; it was a career change that was quite fortuitous, because Saint Elizabeth is where he met his loving wife, Donna.  Matthew and Donna live for many years in North Oxford, before moving to Williamstown, Vermont, and to Brookfield, just a short time ago.  No matter where Matthew lived he made time for his family, friends, and his beloved hunting dogs.  He made sure to attend all sporting events of his children and later his grandchildren, he never forgot a birthday and will be remembered as someone who took the time to find the proper birthday card, one with meaning, one with love.  He was more than family, he was a friend to all.  Matthew loved the outdoors, where he could spend hours hunting and fishing.  He most enjoyed coon hunting and was a championship breeder and trainer of hunting dogs.  He loved all New England sports and going to NASCAR races with his family.  Calling Hours will be held on Saturday, April 2, from 1 p.m. until the start of his Memorial Service at 3 p.m., in MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester.   Flowers may be sent or donations in his memory may be made to Mondanock Rod and Gun Club, P.O. Box 82, Jaffrey, NH 03452.