Matthew Francis Peters

 Matthew Francis Peters, beloved son, brother, cousin, and friend, passed away at age 36 on September 20, 2024, after a courageous battle with a brain tumor, surrounded by his loving family. Matthew was born on September 9, 1988, in Hartford, CT. He grew up in Colchester, CT, and was residing in Jacksonville, FL, at the time of his passing. 

 Matthew graduated from Bacon Academy in the class of 2006. He initially attended Springfield College before pursuing his dream of becoming a nurse by enrolling in the nursing program at Goodwin College. 

 From an early age, Matthew's passion for sports was evident. A phenomenal soccer player, he began playing at age nine and competed on various travel and premiere teams. His love for soccer was boundless, and he also had a deep connection with baseball. Matthew was fortunate to be coached by his father and cherished the opportunity to play alongside his brother, Nick. 

 In 2011, following a motorcycle accident, Matthew's brain tumor was discovered. Despite this challenge, his strength and determination never wavered. He embraced life fully, traveling extensively and living in California for several years, where he cultivated close friendships and developed a love for the laid-back California lifestyle. Matthew skated everywhere, maintained a dedicated fitness routine, and embraced a healthy way of living. His adventurous spirit led him to skydive, scuba dive, jetpack in Aruba, surf in California, and explore Costa Rica. He also became an avid glassblower, creating many beautiful pieces. 

 Matthew is survived by his parents, Annmarie (Sacerdote) Peters and Roger Peters Jr.; his brother, Nicholas Peters; and his sister, Jennifer Peters. He also leaves behind his beloved dog, Cali, who was named after his love for California, and his fur niece Nova, Cali's "aunt." He will be dearly missed by many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and extended family. Matthew was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Francis and Gloria Sacerdote of Rocky Hill, CT and his paternal grandmother, JoAnne Peters of Rocky Hill, CT. 

  A Memorial Service and Celebration of Matthew's Life will be held at Quinn Shalz Funeral Home, 3600 3rd Street South Jacksonville Beach, FL, on October 5, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be in memory of Matthew Peters to Brain Cancer Research at Mayo Clinic in Florida by visiting https://philanthropy.mayoclinic.org/donateMC