Mathew J. Bernat, Jr., 70, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026, at Niagara Hospice House. Born in Niagara Falls, he was the beloved son of the late Mathew Sr. and Frances (Accetta) Bernat, and the devoted husband of Mary (Augustino) Bernat, whom he married on October 5, 1991, at the Wintergarden in Niagara Falls.

A proud graduate of Trott Vocational High School, Matt was a three‑letter athlete who excelled in baseball, basketball, and football. For over 30 years, he served the City of Niagara Falls Board of Education with dedication.

Matt’s passion for sports carried throughout his life, most memorably through his years competing in softball leagues across Western New York. He played with the Peete’s Marlboro Inn fast‑pitch softball team, winning the Art Ponzi Lincoln‑Mercury Fast‑Pitch Softball League Championship in 1975, an achievement still celebrated by the surviving teammates who still continue to gather in remembrance. Matt was later humbly inducted into the Western New York Softball Hall of Fame.

Beyond his own athletic accomplishments, Matt gave back generously to the community, coaching baseball at all levels and encouraging young athletes. He was an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox and enjoyed playing golf. Matt also had a love for horseracing and enjoyed spending time at the casino.

Above all, Matt centered his life around his family. He was never more at peace than when he was surrounded by those he loved and cherished.

In addition to his wife, Mary, of 35 years, Mathew is survived by one daughter, Christine Johnson, and one son Joseph (Ashley) Higdon; his twin sister, Becky (Pat) Burke; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Constance (late Alan) Weiser.

Visitation will be held on Friday, July 24, from 9–11 AM at M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, where prayers will begin at 11 AM. Interment will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions honoring Mathew and reflecting Mary’s and Matt’s shared devotion to assisting children with disabilities may be made to Cradle Beach, 8038 Old Lakeshore Rd., Angola, NY 14006, or through their website: https://www.cradlebeach.org/donation/ - visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.