Matthew T. Pawlak, of Mishawaka, passed away on Sunday, December 11, 2022 at the age of 59. He was born on September 29, 1963 to Richard and Annetta (Vadun) Pawlak in Monroe, MI. On June 21, 2009 he was united in marriage to Tricia McDonald who survives. 

Along with his wife of 13 years, Tricia, he is survived by his parents, Richard and Annetta, sons, Clarke Pawlak of Mishawaka, Noah Pawlak of Florida, brothers, Mark (Karen) Pawlak of Holland, MI., Timothy Pawlak of San Diego, CA., and Anthony (Melanie) Pawlak of Ypsilanti, MI., and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Robert and Alicia McDonald of Three Rivers, MI. along with a host of extended family. 

Born and raised in Monroe, MI., Matthew attended St. Mary’s grade school and graduated from Monroe Catholic Central High School. Upon graduation Matthew joined the Brothers of Holy Cross where he worked with the elders in the community, doctor serving the poor in Tennessee and coached children with special needs while studying and graduating from Notre Dame University with a Bachelors in English Literature.  After leaving the Brothers, he earned a Masters from Valparaiso University. He taught English at Marion High School and ended his teaching career at Clay High School in 2019 with 30 years of service throughout the South Bend School Corporation. In 2008, he was named teacher of the year at Clay High School.

He was an avid sportsman playing baseball and football as a youth, then on to wrestling. He also won a Monroe County Teen trophy in bodybuilding. He offered his talents to many young people coaching wrestling, football and spent many evenings with South Bend special needs students at the ice-skating rink. He loved introducing literature to his students, poetry was his favorite, and he especially enjoyed sharing with the athletes in the classroom. 

Matthew was an accomplished pianist with focus on the classics. Mozart was one of his favorite composers. It was always a surprise to his students when this giant of a man stepped up to the keyboard, placed his hands on the ivories and produced beautiful music.  His athletic career began to dwindle when he contracted MS at the age of 26, but he continued to teach and life coach and play the piano for 33 years. As a teacher and mentor, Matthew was a force to be reckoned with when it came to students who said, “I can’t”. He taught with love of the subjects, the love of his students, his family, and his lust for life.

Matthew’s wife, Tricia, his sons, Noah and Clarke, his parents, siblings, students, and friends will cheer him on as he moves forth into a new and exciting realm. 

In keeping with his wishes, cremation will take place and the family will be holding a Celebration of Life at a later date. Palmer Funeral Homes – Hickey Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

12/14/2022 JFC