Matthew Kear; Obituary, Death: It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the untimely passing of Matthew Kear, beloved father, son, brother, and devoted Police Officer. Matthew, who was 34 years old, tragically passed away on January 25, 2025, in Oceanside, New York. His death has left an indelible void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Matthew was born on April 17, 1990, in Oceanside, New York, and was a lifelong resident of this close-knit community. From a young age, Matthew demonstrated a sense of duty and care for others that would guide him throughout his life. He graduated from Oceanside High School in 2008 and went on to pursue his dream of serving his community by becoming a police officer.
Matthew’s decision to join the force was one fueled by a deep desire to protect and serve. He graduated from the Police Academy and was proudly sworn in as a member of the Oceanside Police Department. His colleagues remember him as someone who was hardworking, dependable, and always ready to lend a hand to those in need. His reputation as a compassionate and fair officer earned him the respect and admiration of his peers and the community he swore to protect.
However, behind the badge and his outward strength, Matthew struggled with the mental and emotional toll that came with his profession. The nature of police work often involves witnessing difficult and painful situations, and despite his best efforts to shield others from his internal struggles, Matthew faced overwhelming challenges in silence. He fought a battle against depression and personal demons that, unfortunately, took a toll on his spirit.
Matthew was a gentle soul at heart, known for his wit, humor, and infectious smile. He loved spending time with his family, whether it was playing board games with his younger sister, sharing laughs over a family meal, or spending weekends exploring the local parks with his close friends. Matthew’s passion for his family and his unwavering dedication to their well-being were constants in his life.
One of Matthew’s favorite pastimes was being near the ocean. Living in Oceanside, he found peace and solace in walking along the beach, listening to the waves crash against the shore. It was during these moments by the water that he found some semblance of comfort and calm in a world that often felt overwhelming. His love for the ocean mirrored his personality: steady, vast, and full of depth.
Matthew’s passing has left a deep sadness in the hearts of his family, friends, and the entire Oceanside community. His death is a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the urgent need for support for those in professions that demand so much from the people who serve. Matthew’s legacy will not be defined by his tragic end but by the love he shared with those closest to him, the kindness he showed to strangers, and the commitment he demonstrated to his job and his community.
Matthew is survived by his parents, Richard and Anne Kear; his younger sister, Emily Kear; and his extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved maternal grandparents, who were a central part of his early life and whom he missed dearly.
Matthew’s family asks that in his memory, people take a moment to reach out to those who may be struggling. A simple gesture, whether through a phone call or a kind word, can make all the difference in someone’s life. His death reminds us that it’s okay to ask for help, to seek support, and to talk openly about our mental health, no matter how difficult that conversation may be.
The Kear family would like to thank the Oceanside Police Department, as well as the many friends, colleagues, and community members who have expressed their condolences and offered their support during this difficult time. Matthew’s commitment to his job and the bonds he formed within the department were a source of great pride, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who worked beside him.
A funeral service for Matthew will be held at St. Anthony’s Church in Oceanside on Thursday, January 29, 2025, at 10:00 AM. Family and friends are invited to gather afterward at the Oceanside VFW Hall to celebrate Matthew’s life. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or to a local mental health charity, in hopes that others may find the support they need before it’s too late.
Matthew Kear’s passing is a profound loss, and his memory will remain with all who knew him. His dedication to his family, his community, and his work will forever be remembered. We will cherish the moments we had with him and hold on to the love he gave so freely. May he rest in peace, and may we all find strength in his memory as we navigate the difficult journey ahead. Rest in Peace, Officer Matthew Kear.
