RUMFORD — Matthew J. Plante, 52, died peacefully Thursday, Jan. 13, at his residence on Franklin Street, Rumford, with his loving wife and family after a courageous battle with cancer.

He was born in Rumford, June 24, 1958, a son of Douglas and Kathleen (Malick) Plante, and graduated from the Rumford High School, Class of 1976.

Matt had served for more than 16 years as a chef in the U.S. Navy. He enjoyed cooking and organizing many events for the FOE including the Hawaiian Night and the Classic Car Show as chairman. He also served as chairman for the State President’s pet project “Camp to Belong,” and co-chairman for the Pink Sock Breast Cancer Foundation for the FOE. He was a communicant of St. Athanasius–St. John Church.

He was married in Rumford, Nov. 28, 2009, to Carol Ann Drouin, who survives of Rumford.

Other survivors include stepsons, Jason Capponi of Jay and Aaron Capponi and his wife, Colleen, of Richland, N.C.; four grandchildren, Alaina, Rocco, Erick and Dustin; sisters, Geraldine Perry and husband, William, of Kennebunk and Dorothy Arsenault and husband, Dennis, of Rumford; brother, Stephen Plante of Phoenix, Ariz.; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; and brothers, Thomas Plante Sr. and Louis Plante.

The family sends a special thanks to Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice, especially to Nikki and Bonnie.

Friends are invited to sign the guest book and share memories online at www.meaderandson.com.

Copy the Story Link