Obituary of Dennis J DeMatte Jr

Dennis DeMatte Jr., 59, of Vineland, NJ, passed away on Friday afternoon, March 28, 2025, at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital. A lifelong resident of Vineland, Dennis dedicated his life to serving his community and touched the hearts of many. Born and raised in Vineland, Dennis was a proud graduate of Vineland High School, Class of 1983. He furthered his education at Western Maryland College, graduating in 1987 with a degree in Political Science. After graduation, he began his career working as a legislative aide to New Jersey Assemblyman Ed Salmon and Ray Batten. In 1991, he joined the Cumberland County Improvement Authority as the Recycling Coordinator, where he played a pivotal role in educating the community and initiating programs such as EcoFair, EnviroFair, and Household Hazardous Waste Day. In addition to his professional achievements, Dennis made a lasting impact as a coach for the Vineland YMCA Swim Team for over 20 years. More than just a coach, he was a mentor and friend to many, using his coaching techniques to transform the lives of his team members. His devotion to the YMCA Seals shaped the program into what it is today. His commitment to his community was evident through his active participation in various organizations, including the Vineland Little League, the Vineland Pigtail League, the Cumberland County ARC Sharks Swim Team, as well as his role as a board member for the Cumberland Area Transit System. In 2018, he was honored as a Hometown Hero of Vineland. A dedicated Catholic and member of Christ the Good Shepherd Parish, he drew strength from his faith, which supported him in facing health challenges over the past 13 years without any complaints. Above all, Dennis cherished his time spent with his daughter and family. He was a loving father, brother, uncle, and friend. He treasured family traditions such as Christmas Eve celebrations, camping adventures, pool days, time down the shore, and taking trips with his family. Dennis loved being outdoors, spending time in his yard, sailing, and finding the perfect place to go on an adventure. Family meant everything to him. Dennis DeMatte Jr. will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and the profound impact he made on the lives of those around him. He is survived by his daughter Kelsey Rahl (Justin); his brother Jeff DeMatte (Lisa); his sister Paula Lamprecht (Bill); nephews Kyle (Casey) & Samuel DeMatte, and Jonathan & William Lamprecht, and Lori DeMatte. Dennis was predeceased by his parents, Dennis Sr. and Brenda DeMatte. A church visitation will be held on Thursday, April 3rd from 9am to 11am followed by a funeral mass at 11am from Christ The Good Shepherd Parish - Church Of Sacred Heart, 1010 East Landis Avenue, Vineland. Inurnment will follow in Our Lady Of Victories Cemetery, Landisville. ARRANGEMENTS are under the supervision of Rone Funeral Service, 1110 East Chestnut Avenue, Vineland, NJ 08360 Donations in memory of Dennis may be made to: the Aquatic Center at the Cumberland Cape Atlantic YMCA. To send online condolences please visit our website at www.RONEFUNERALSERVICE.com