Matthew Arthur Orange

Mathew Arthur Orange, 41, of Colchester, passed away on December 21, 2018 at Backus Hospital in Norwich after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, and gave life a run for its money. He was surrounded by numerous family and friends throughout his last day and evening. He was born in Farmington, CT on July 30, 1977, a son of Dennis and Linda (Smith) Orange, Sr. Matt was a graduate of Bacon Academy with the class of 1996. He worked as a Butcher in the meat department of Pat’s Market in Marlborough, Matt was a unique individual who loved connecting and conversing with people which is why he loved working in sales. He also enjoyed tag sale shopping to sell vintage items on eBay.  Matt was a fan of football, but his true enjoyment was found when he was fishing. He loved life and his wonderful sense of humor was responsible for countless smiles from people who had the pleasure of knowing him. Most importantly, his greatest pride and joy came from the love of his life, his daughter, Dezarae Ann Orange.  He will also be sadly missed, but always remembered with love by his beloved parents, Dennis and Linda Orange of Colchester; siblings, Patrick Orange of Colchester, Dennis Orange, Jr., of Westerly, RI, Denise and Darleen O’Neal, both of Arkansas; his uncles Brian  (Lin) Smith and George (Phyllis) Smith, his aunt Genevieve Lescoe and many cousins, numerous extended family members and friends. He was predeceased by his grandparents Arthur and Ann Smith of Marlborough, and William and Rose Orange of Willimantic, his uncles Bruce Smith and Henry Coriaty, and his aunt Rosemarie Hart. The Orange family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the Hartford Hospital Home Health Care and the Backus Hospital Staff, and Dr. Clement and the UConn oncology group for their compassionate care of Matt during his illness.  A great deal of thanks and appreciation is also extended to the Colchester Hayward Volunteer Fire Co. for all the times they transported Matt for emergency care.  Calling hours will be held on Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018 from 1 – 2:30 PM at the Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home, 167 Old Hartford Rd., Colchester.  A memorial service and celebration of his life will follow immediately at the funeral home at 2:30.  Burial will be private in the Marlboro Center Cemetery.  Donations in Matt’s memory may be made to the Colchester Hayward Volunteer Fire Co., 52, Old Hartford Rd., Colchester 06415. For online condolences, please visit www.auroramccarthyfuneralhome.com

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