Coming full circle

Story and photos By DEBORAH A. MILES
A celebration of Lou Matrazzo’s life took place at PEF headquarters with a tree-planting ceremony June 10.

Dozens of PEF leaders, members and staff gathered around a serviceberry bush planted in Matrazzo’s memory. The PEF vice president passed away suddenly in March, leaving his family, co-workers, and union brothers and sisters in shock and sadness.

This event honored Matrazzo with warm memories and symbolism. The serviceberry bush, for example, is destined to grow strong and colorful, much like Matrazzo’s personality.

“Lou could be described in a number of ways,” said PEF President Ken Brynien. “He had a unique personality. Lou could look at an issue and give you a fresh perspective or spin on it. If he believed in something, he would keep pushing at it. He was a fighter.”

Brynien asked for a moment of silence. Afterward, he presented Michelle Matrazzo with a plaque recognizing her dad for his excellence, leadership and dedication to the growth of PEF.

The people at the event stood symbolically in a full circle around the bush, as other union leaders spoke about their colleague and friend.

“Lou was a great guy to have around and have a conversation with,” said PEF Vice President Joe Fox.
“If you were on edge about anything, you could talk it out with Lou. He did a great job in all his positions within PEF, rising through the ranks from steward to vice-president. He was a man of his word. He delivered.”

Karen Spotford, a council leader and PEF Executive Board member from Rochester Psychiatric Center, spoke about Matrazzo’s contribution to the union as chair of the PEF contract team, and about his constant pride and love for his daughter, Michelle.

PEF Secretary-Treasurer Arlea Igoe said she knew Matrazzo for more than 25 years and encouraged him to become an active union member.

“Lou never did anything halfway,” Igoe said. “There were times we disagreed, but there was always love at heart. We’ll all miss him.