Matthew K. Schade, 47 of Garnet Valley, passed away on November 3, 2012 at his home surrounded by his family after a long and valiant fight with cancer.

Born in Ridley Park and reared in Ridley Park and Boothwyn, Matt was son of the late Edna P. Murray Schade.

He served in the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Long Beach, during the Gulf War and was a locomotive engineer for both Conrail and Norfolk Southern Railroads.

Matt was a 1982 graduate of Chichester High School and loved all sports, especially football and baseball and was an avid Philadelphia sports fan.

He loved his home and spending time with his family. Matt was the most wonderful husband and father; devoted to his wife and adored by his children and foster son. He will be sadly missed by his family and his Pomeranian Georgie who was his "buddy" and constant companion.

Survivors: his beloved wife of 23 years JoAnna Porreca Schade; his sons Matthew, Jr and Christopher; his daughter Marissa; foster son Alex Ramos; his father Woodrow "Woody" K. Schade: brother Mark E. Schade; also his nephew Michael D. Schade.

JoAnna and the children thank her friends and colleagues at Delaware Hospice for their constant support and loving care throughout Matt's illness.

Funeral Service private.

If you wish to remember Matt, memorial gifts may be sent to Delaware Hospice, 3515 Silverside Rd., Wilmington, DE 19810.