Mazz family thank you

Flex, Jan, 2004 by Mary Matarazzo

August 24, 2003

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Welder,

Dear Mr. McGough, Please accept my heartfelt thanks for your thoughtfulness in sending flowers for my husband's funeral [Mike Matarazzo Sr. passed away August 17, 2003. See November's Hard Times.] The flowers were both huge and extraordinarily beautiful arrangements, which stood out in front of his casket. Your kindness meant a lot to Michael; my daughter, Mary Jean; and me.

Although Mad Mazz physically lost his most ardent number-one fan, I know that his dad will be with him always. He loved Mike and was so proud to go root for Michael at his competitions. Michael's victory at the 1991 USA was such a thrill for his dad that I thought his heart would come out of his chest. He attended a few more competitions, but as his condition worsened, he sorely missed not being able to attend any more. My husband was incapacitated for many years and spent the last 14 months of his life in a nursing home, never once complaining about his condition or circumstances. Now God, in His mercy and sparing him any further pain and indignities, has peacefully taken him home. I will never forget your thoughtfulness.

Thank you again.

Mary Matarazzo

Somerville, MA