Matthew Ralston Allen, 41
September 21, 1979- July 31, 2021
Born on September 21,1979 at Sturdy Memorial Hospital, Matt was the treasured eldest son of Mark and Olga Allen. He grew up in North Attleboro, MA and went on to graduate from North Attleboro High School in 1998. A true testament to his loyal character, he maintained the same circle of friends throughout his life.
After graduating from NAHS, Matt went on to Fitchburg State College where he received a bachelor’s degree in Business leading him to a career in the family business at W.H. Riley & Son.
His beloved garage, a structure that sits at 30- by 53-feet, was never quite big enough for all his toys and tools, as he liked to say. There was always a dirt bike being brought back to life or a piece of machinery that was being perfected. Matt was in the process of restoring his 1978 red Chevy pickup truck, and it was his dream to have the space to park it among the rest of his favorite things.
Matt and his longtime love Caitlin (VanDeGiesen) were together for nearly a decade. They loved to travel together, enjoy a good meal and watch reruns of “The Office.” The first addition to their family was their rescue dog, Ben, who became their constant companion and newest travel partner.
In 2017, Matt and Caitlin welcomed their son Ryan, who idolized Matt and sought to join him on every errand and adventure. Matt, a quiet man of few words, found joy and a good laugh in having a son who never stopped talking.
In 2019 Annie was born, completing their family. Lovingly nicknaming her “banana,” he delighted in her poking his cheek every morning at the crack of dawn, yelling “Hi Daddy!”
A cancer diagnosis in the fall of 2020 took the family by surprise. He fought courageously, never losing hope and always believing that his health would be restored.
Matt was a devoted brother to Jon. They shared a love of garage projects, trips to their cabin in Maine and weekly breakfast dates at the local diner. Jon’s wife Christina was the sister he never had. He was also a cherished uncle to Sammi, Joey and Charlie Allen; Avery and Colin VanDeGiesen; and Samantha and Teagan VanDeGiesen.
Matt will always be remembered for his kindness, honesty and loyalty. A steadfast and faithful friend, husband, son, brother and father who will be sorely missed by many. His passing is also grieved by his parents, the VanDeGiesen family, a large extended family and his lifelong friends and colleagues. Matt’s burial will be private and a celebration of his wonderful life will be held at a later date. If you wish, donations may be made to Ryan and Annie Allen’s Education Fund. Checks can be mailed directly to Bank of America, 505 Pleasant Street, Attleboro, MA 02703.