Matthew El Altenritter

Dr. Matthew (Matt) Altenritter, aged 37, passed away on Saturday afternoon, 3/16/2024 surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with stomach cancer. A cherished husband to Megan and devoted father to George and Mary-Claire, Matt’s legacy is one of love, dedication, and passion. Born 5/29/1986 in South Korea and adopted by Sandra and Edward Altenritter, he embraced life with a zest that was contagious to all who knew him.

Matt’s passion for the natural world was not just a pastime, but the essence of his being. He found fishing and the water to be his tranquil sanctuary, a place where he found solace and joy. He shared this love of water and the outdoors with his soulmate, Megan, and together they spent as much time as possible enjoying and exploring nature as a family, no matter the season or location.

As a scholar, Matt’s thirst for knowledge was insatiable, culminating in a BS and MS in biology from Grand Valley State University in 2008 and 2010, respectively, and a PhD in biological sciences from University of Maine in 2015. As a respected professor at SUNY Brockport, he inspired students with his enthusiasm for fish, ecology, and the environment. His teachings extended beyond the classroom, instilling a sense of wonder and respect for the natural world in all who had the privilege to learn from him.

His battle with stomach cancer was fought with the same resilience he approached all of life’s challenges. Despite many moves and the challenges that came along with a competitive academic career, Matt was always forward-thinking and was always working to improve himself. Throughout it all, he prioritized his family first and was the most dedicated and loving husband and father. He kept his faith extremely quiet and close to his heart, rarely even letting his closest family know where he was spiritually. In his final months and days, he took solace in knowing that a place of rest, comfort, and peace awaited him.

Matt’s work ethic was unparalleled, but it was his kindness and caring nature that truly set him apart. He approached life with a gentle thoughtfulness, touching the lives of those around him in subtle yet memorable ways. He was a “favorite” in every aspect of his life- a sentiment echoed by friends, family, and colleagues alike. In his memory, let us cast our lines into the waters of life, seeking the peace he found and the joy he shared.

Matt is predeceased by his mother, Sandra Altenritter. He is survived by his wife of 13 years, Megan, and children George (11) and Mary-Claire (7); He is also survived by his father Edward Altenritter; siblings David (Sarah) Finn, Shannon (Don) Ensing, Daniel (Sarah) Altenritter, Kimberly Pham, Natasha (Ben) Szichak; and many nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, friends, colleagues, and students that loved and cherished him. His legacy of kindness, compassion, and dedication will live on through them.

Visitation hours are Tuesday 3/19/2024 6-8pm at the Nativity BVM church Parish Center, 152 Main St. Brockport, NY 14420.

Funeral is Wednesday 3/20/2024 at 11am at Nativity BVM Church.

Burial to immediately follow at Mt. Olivet cemetery, E. Canal Rd, Brockport, NY 14420.

There will be a luncheon served at Nativity BVM Parish Center following the burial.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the GoFundMe set up to support Megan and the kids’ anticipated expenses.