Matthew Michael Welch, 67, passed away unexpectedly on December 18 ^th , 2022.

Matthew was preceded in death by his parents, Matthew and Patricia (nee Cawley) and his loving wife of 33 years, Elizabeth Sacher Welch.  He is survived by his present wife, Gail Welch, brother-in-laws, Tom Sacher and family, Jerry Sacher and family, Bob Sacher, Richard Sacher, and the Cawley, Travers and Chorcorhan families.  He is also survived by his "adoptive" mom in Bermuda, Dorothy Caisey and her son Allen and many friends.

Matthew grew up in Riverside, NJ.  He is a graduate of Holy Cross Preparatory Academy, Class of 1973.  He attended the University of Dayton from 1973-1974 where he played varsity soccer.  He graduated from Rowan University magna cum laude in 1977 with a BA in Criminal Justice.  He attended the N.J. State Police Academy in Sea Grit, NJ graduating in 1979 in the 94 ^th class.  While at the academy, he attained the highest score in firearms qualification.  As a trooper, he was awarded the NJ State Certificate of Commendation for Outstanding Performance in a Hostage Situation.  He was also elected as Coach for the Trooper-Coach Program.  He retired from the NJ State Police in 2004 as Detective Sergeant 1 ^st Class.  The State Police bestowed a brotherhood and sisterhood to Matthew of which he never knew, having grown up as an only child.

Matthew was especially grateful for the supportive friendships he received from Brian Sullivan and Albert Kernagis through the years.

Matthew will be greatly missed for his quick-witted humor, kindness, empathy and generosity of spirit.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Thursday, Dec. 22 ^nd from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at Weber Funeral Home, 112 Broad St., Riverton, NJ 08077, and again on Friday, Dec. 23 ^rd , from 9:45am to 10:45am, followed my Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00am, both at Sacred Heart Church, 4 ^th and Linden Ave., Riverton, NJ 08077.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.weberfuneralhomeinc.com