Matthew Garofalo

Matthew Garofalo, of Grays Ferry, affectionately known as “Scab” to his family and friends, peacefully passed away on August 28, 2026, at Methodist Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on June 22, 1965, to his beloved mother, Kathleen “Kathy” (nee: Dangillo), and his father the late George Rauch, predeceased by the love of his life Christina Garofalo (Dillon). Matt spent most of his life in South Philadelphia. He was a graduate of St. John Neumann High School, Class of ’83, and later built a career in the scrap metal industry, working as a manager for a business in Northeast Philadelphia.

Matt was a true Philadelphia sports fan and especially loved his Flyers. He rarely missed a game and remained a devoted fan through every season. When it came to football, however, his loyalty belonged to the Raiders.

Music was also an important part of Matt’s life. In his younger years, he loved playing bass guitar with his friends, creating plenty of great memories along the way. More recently, he enjoyed attending concerts, listening to cover bands, and heading out to a local bar whenever there was good live music playing.

Matt also knew how to appreciate the simple pleasures in life. He loved Philip’s cheesesteaks, panzarottis, and was a connoisseur of fine cannabis. Summers at the shore always brought him happiness, whether he was spending time with family and friends or simply sitting on the boardwalk, taking a walk, and enjoying everything around him.

Those who knew Matt will remember a man who was funny, loving, caring, and incredibly generous. His wonderfully dry sense of humor, always accompanied by just the right amount of sarcasm, was unmistakably Matt. He could make people laugh without ever having to try too hard. Beneath that humor was a tremendous heart and a man who cared deeply for the people in his life.

Above everything else, family meant the world to Matt. He was a devoted dad, proud Pop Pop, loving son, brother, and loyal friend. The people he loved always knew how much they meant to him, and the memories, laughter, and good times he shared with them will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

He will be deeply missed by his beloved son, Matthew Garofalo (Kathleen Desmond); his cherished granddaughter, Erin Garofalo, who lovingly knew him as Pop Pop; his siblings, Denise Garofalo and Brian (Robin) Rauch; his nieces Brianna Grey (Eddie Bianculli), Natalie Rauch and Amelia Rauch; as well as his aunts, cousins, and many dear friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather on Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 9:30 to 10:45 AM at St. Gabriel Church, 29th & Dickinson Streets, Philadelphia. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM. Burial will be private.

In keeping with Matt’s lifelong love for the Flyers, memorial donations in his memory may be made to Flyers Charities through e.givesmart.com.

Matt lived life in his own way—with humor, music, loyalty, generosity, and an unmistakable personality. He was truly one of a kind, and those fortunate enough to have known and loved him will never forget him. Funeral arrangements by Frank R. Gatto Funeral Home