Sad News

[PhilDernerJr]

With great sorrow and shock, I announce the passing of NYCAviation Co-Owner Matt Molnar. Matt passed away suddenly and unexpectedly while with his fiancé Thursday night in Brooklyn, NY.

Matt’s death leaves behind a void that no team or best friend could fill. He is survived by his beautiful fiancé Gina and his little brother Steven. He was 33.

Details on funeral arrangements and services will be announced once available. We thank you for your support and patience during this difficult time.

Thank you,

-Phil

Wake and funeral info can be found here: http://www.michaelsfuneralhome.com/book-of-memories/1477487/Molnar--Matthew/service-details.php

Please help offset the costs of Matt’s funeral and medical expenses, while also contributing to his preferred charities of The Humane Society and The Wounded Warrior Project, by donating to the Matt Molnar Memorial Fund.... http://www.giveforward.com/mattmolnarmemorialfund

Read more about Matt here: http://www.nycaviation.com/2013/01/aviation-loses-a-great-man-and-a-better-friend/#.UQROBb9ZWuJ
http://www.nycaviation.com/hosting/252801_578896486593_2607970_n.jpg

[PhilDernerJr]

I'm still in shock, guys, so forgive me if I don't have much to say right now. I'm so lucky to have had Matt so close in my life for the past decade. He's been there for me through so much and now he's off to work on his next project up above.

God must have some kickass website planned.

Love you Matt.

[MarkLawrence]

Oh my god - Phil - that is devastating news! My heart goes out to all Matt's close friends and family, especially Gina at this tough time.

[AirlineReporter]

Matt was an amazing guy and I loved every opportunity being able to work with him. He will be greatly missed. Of course if there is anything I can do to help, let me know Phil & team.

David

[Runway1R]

Wow. This is... I don't even know what to say. So sorry for your loss, Phil. Prayers go out to his family as well.

[gonzalu]

OMG... I am shocked... !!!

[Roush6NY]

I do not know what to say .. I am in just absolute shock right now

[PhilDernerJr]

If anyone has any cool pics of Matt, please post them.

[EricM]

Very sad to hear this. There will be a permanent hole in my Twitter feed. :-( Condolences, prayers and blessings to all of Matt's family and friends from out here in California.

[steve1840]

Phil, I am so sorry to be reading this. I am unquestionably beside myself right now and at a loss for words.

[Cary]

I can't believe it. I was just e-mailing him a few days ago about photography for his wedding :frown: Matt will be sorely missed.

Here's a photo I took of him in Boston, the day before he got to fly it home to EWR:

http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u36/soak2179/matt787.jpg

[JetBlueAirwaysFan]

I cannot believe this. Condolences to everyone!

[adscram14]

Condolences to his family and Phil. He really did some great things for the people of this site and the industry and he will be missed.

[jerslice]

Hey everyone,

if anyone wants to talk, needs someone to listen, please don't hesitate to call me any time day or night. 508 353-5802.

Jeremy

[moose135]

I'm stunned by this news. My thoughts and prayers to Gina, Matt's family, and you as well, Phil.

This was from LGA Kids Day in 2009. Rest in Peace, my friend.

http://www.moose135photography.com/photos/i-kdkS7QW/1/L/i-kdkS7QW-L.jpg

[chrisparypa]

This is terrible news... My Deepest condolences...

[Gerard]

Shocking news!! Very sad!! My condolences to all!!:frown:

[T-Bird76]

Very sad to hear. My deepest condolences.. very shocking...

[SeriouslyFunny]

Ill never forget this day and how he helped me on a stupid little technical website issue I couldnt figure out for years. I wish I knew you more...

http://dangerousvideo.com/somethingretarded/alandann.jpg

Brian Stevenson - SeriouslyFunny Photography

[RomNYC]

33... WHY? My thoughts to his family and the NYCA team. Stay strong guys.

[LGA777]

Just saw this on Facebook and jumped over here for more info, I am in deep shock and sadness. I really
didn't get to know Gina, I am so sorry for her and Matt's families loss, and Phil I am guessing this may
be the closest loss you have had, and I am incredibly sorry man. I guess in closing those that knew Matt closely
and those like me who knew Matt causally but yet still thought highly of him can say that Matt's life was a gift
to all of us. Judge the time we had with him in quality of life and time and not quantity of life and time.

RIP Matt, I am glad I knew you !

Ron Peel

[wunaladreamin]

I'm totally at a loss for words. All you had to was spend 5 minutes with Matt and know how cool of a person he was. This is a huge loss not only to this community but to the world as a whole. My deepest condolences to Gina and to you Phil.

Fair winds and following seas brother.

[AJ]

I never met Matt but always enjoyed his work. From the posts here, I see that he was one of the good guys.

I too am sad.

AJ

[Derf]

Very Sorry for your Loss Phil, I am in shock and will miss him

[megatop412]

Like everyone else I'm totally shocked. My thoughts go out to his family and friends, and all of you who knew him so well. I think I remember meeting him at Airliners 2010 if my memory serves me correctly. Phil I am so sorry for the loss of your close friend.

I'm actually getting ready to head to a friend's funeral myself, who also passed at a young age. It is a sobering thought that we can be snatched away so suddenly. Draw your loved ones close on a regular basis, and appreciate every single day you are here.

[Mellyrose]

I know it's been forever since I've shown my face around here, but I, like all of you, am shocked and heartbroken by this news. Matt was truly one of a kind.

Here are a couple of my favorite photos I have of him and Phil, both from LGA Kid's Day in 2009.

RIP Matt.
"The air up there in the clouds is very pure and fine, bracing and delicious. And why shouldn’t it be? —it is the same the angels breathe.” - Mark Twain

http://www.melanierosephotos.com/MattPhil-KidsDay2009.jpg

http://www.melanierosephotos.com/PDJandMMhighfive.gif

[kc2aqg]

Just learned of this news on FB, I'm in total shock. I only met Matt in person a handful of times, but I always remembered what a standup guy he was and how his passion for all things photography and aviation showed through in everything he did. Very sad news, sending thoughts and prayed to Matt's family, Phil, and especially to Gina. Rest in peace my friend.

[AircrewBuzz]

Crushed to learn the shocking and heartbreaking news about Matt. Twitter will not be the same without Matt, nor will the aviation news beat. Heartfelt condolences to Phil on the loss of his dear friend and business partner, and as well to Matt's fiancee and family.

[Greg_NY]

I am very saddened by this. I was fortunate enough to meet Matt this past summer and was impressed by what a warm and friendly person he was.

Thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.

Isaac

[yankees368]

I'm so sorry to hear this news. I was expecting to see him at the AA event at JFK today when I got the news. Word spread and everyone I know there was just in shock.
I was just really getting to know Matt more recently, but he will be greatly missed.
This is the only picture I have of him, as a reflection in the glass facade of the TWA Flight Center

http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac1/yankees368/251325_164471067025270_923876962_n_zps608c71f8.jpg

[eric8669]

I had just seen Matt on tuesdsy and was suppose to meet him this morning to cover an event. This news is just shocking and sad. Matt you will be missed.

[Aviation.High.Guy]

So sorry to hear. While I never met Matt personally, from the outpouring of kind words and condolences here I
can sense the impact of his sudden departure. My deepest condolences go out to Matt's loved ones and friends-

[NIKV69]

Still can't believe the text I got before I saw this thread. Phil I am sorry for your loss. Glad I got to meet Gina at the 56th when we had dinner and always loved when Matt was in the field shooting and I got a chance to see him though few and far between I liked shooting with him. His work and effort goes without saying as his passion for aviation.

Please pass my condolences to Gina and his family and apologize for my absence at his service. R.I.P and God speed.

[Zee71]

I am deeply sadden to hear of Matt's passing. My condolences and prayers go out to his family and Gina. We've lost a fellow brother.

[SCOTYDEMCO]

Very sad news. Matt was a great guy!!

[Jhenriquez28]

Like everyone before me, I am shocked for the news. I cannot express in words how I feel. Even tough I never met him in person, I always follow and enjoy his work. Definitely a big loss for this community. My thoughts and prayers to his family and Phil.

RIP Matt

[Iberia A340-600]

My condolences to you, Phil, and to Matt's family. This is very shocking news. We've lost a great contributor to the aviation world. But hey, isn't the view better from above anyway? RIP my friend.

[threeholerglory]

Absolutely heartbreaking news, and I am SO incredibly sorry for Gina who I met at the TWA open house, Phil, and everyone affected. My sincerest condolences to everyone. Though I didn't have TOO much direct interaction with Matt, just spending a couple minutes with him was all it would take to know that he was a great guy and a true gentleman. I can substantiate this claim because he didn't shy away or disassociate himself from the group when Phil and I sang karaoke "You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling". In fact, I think aside from Manny, he was laughing the hardest of anyone in the room.

Blue skies, tail winds, and an ever evolving beard of awesomeness my friend...you'll always be with us, but you will be missed.

[deltaA330]

RIP Matt. Even though I never met you, us spotters are tight knit community. Condolences to Matt's family, Phil, and everyone else effected by his passing.

[Dabbey]

Dear Phil,

I am sorry to hear about the passing of your great friend and co-owner of NYCaviation.com Matt Molnar. I can tell how much you cared for Matt just by your opening announcement. I never met Matt but wish I had. He often posted interesting content and was an entertaining Tweeter. When I think of what got me interested in planespotting, your website is definitely on the top of my list. Matt will surely be missed by the aviation fan community as evidenced by the previous posts.

Sincerely,
David Abbey

[hiss srq]

Life is a lot like flying, some flights longer than others, some bumpy and some smooth, some with a perfect landing and some less desireable. No matter how long or smooth your flight may be, when God clears you to land, make sure there were people, passions and amazing sights along the way because once your chocks are in, there is no going back. Rest in peace Matt, our organization, circle of friends and industry as a whole was changed for the better by your flight. Tailwinds always.

Phil, I don't think I need to say anything here that has not been said but you have our collective support and caring here through this along with Gina and Matt's family. Truly crushing and heart breaking. I've been thinking about this non stop since word got to me. Our group will always have a missing rivet in it's wing for now on. We can fill it in but it will never be the same.


Godspeed Matty, I will be drinking my beers for you bud.

[Fighting_falcon_51]

Wow, I am just shocked and saddened.

I only got to meet two three times in my life, but they were all very memorable. The first time was at Dave & Busters when I got the flight certificate from Kenny, the second was at NFI Spring Fling when I went for my first flight ever.

Godspeed, Matt.

[flyboy 28]

Very sad to hear about Matt's passing. I only met him once, years ago, at the old Firestone. He was a good dude and will be missed. RIP.

[JetBlueAirwaysFan]

Matt wrote the article about my plane crash http://nycaviation.com/forum/threads/43101-Pennsylvania-Plane-Crash-Kills-Two-Long-Island-Aviation-Students-One-Survives Very talented author and supportive as well. Enjoy meeting Casey! You guys will have lots to talk about. You will be missed here on Earth.

[Joe C]

Thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

[PhilDernerJr]

Your posts mean a lot to me, everyone. I posted it first here instead of an article or FB because this is the true heart of NYCA and where the people who knew him so well and where it all began.

Gina and Matt's brother certainly have it worse than I, but it's been among the most difficult of days for me, and the replies here and on Twitter and all over Facebook are so comforting.

My professional relationship was nothing compared to what Matt meant to me as a friend. For anything that's taken place in the past decade, he was always there (among many of you other great friends for whom I'm so lucky to have). Matt was not a man of many words, but he offered a presence and the funniest and most well-timed one liners I've ever heard, and was like a movie quote soundboard.

As my career became busier and busier, Matt backed me up and took care of NYCA, and you all see how amazing of a job he did at that. I promise what we do will not stop. We'll need some recovering, but we will always bring you what we both set out to deliver...love for all things aviation.

The presence of all of you brought great happiness and satisfaction to Matt. Thank you all for that, and for the sharing of love and support. You folks are family to me.

-Phil

[emshighway]

My condolences to Matt's family and the whole NYCAviation Community.

[Delta777LR]

Very Very sad to hear. I send my condolences out to Phil, Gina and all his family. I never forget the day That Phil, Matt and I had an incridable day at LGA catching mostly speacials as I say this us 3 are the only ones to ever catch Southwest Shamu 733 at LGA. I never forget those fun days. I will say. I have strong belief of The one and only in the sky. Matt will always be remembered and he will be with us in spirit watching over us NYCA spotters. RIP Matt

[gonzalu]

I had the privilege to cover the VX inaugural flight from LAX to PHL last year...

Always curious, Matt looks out onto the dark tarmac as we begin the festivities at LAX very early!

http://pictures.mannyphoto.com/Airplanes/Spotting/Matt-Molnar/i-HrTkM3k/0/L/Matt%20Molnar%20at%20LAX-L.jpg

Matt speaks to Brandi Bell, Dan Webb and Henry Harteveldt at LAX

http://pictures.mannyphoto.com/Airplanes/Spotting/Matt-Molnar/i-5sdKGpM/0/L/Matt%20Molnar%20and%20Brandi%20Bell%2C%20Dan%20Web b%20and%20Henry%20Harteveldt-L.jpg

Matt steals my D3 to get some shots out the window as we depart LAX

http://pictures.mannyphoto.com/Airplanes/Spotting/Matt-Molnar/i-7cWNdKq/0/L/Matt%20Molnar%20Airbus%20A320-214%20N842VA%20%28cn%204805%29-L.jpg

http://pictures.mannyphoto.com/Airplanes/Spotting/Matt-Molnar/i-NSSL88S/0/L/Matt%20Molnar%20Airbus%20A320-214%20N842VA%20%28cn%204805%29-2-L.jpg

Entering the plane

http://pictures.mannyphoto.com/Airplanes/Spotting/Matt-Molnar/i-JV6L7tH/0/L/Matt%20Molnar%20boarding%20Virgin%20America%20inna ugural%20flight%20LAX-PHL-L.jpg

Matt interviews Virgin America CEO, David Cush at about 37,000 feet somewhere over middle earth (make that USA)

http://pictures.mannyphoto.com/Airplanes/Spotting/Matt-Molnar/i-7JvbtzJ/0/L/Matt%20Molnar%20and%20David%20Cush%20aboard%20Virg in%20America%20innaugural%20flight%20LAX-PHL-L.jpg

http://pictures.mannyphoto.com/Airplanes/Spotting/Matt-Molnar/i-jBM3Pt9/0/L/Matt%20Molnar%20and%20David%20Cush%20aboard%20Virg in%20America%20innaugural%20flight%20LAX-PHL-2-L.jpg

http://pictures.mannyphoto.com/Airplanes/Spotting/Matt-Molnar/i-tgkhRRn/0/L/Matt%20Molnar%20and%20David%20Cush%20aboard%20Virg in%20America%20innaugural%20flight%20LAX-PHL-3-L.jpg

http://pictures.mannyphoto.com/Airplanes/Spotting/Matt-Molnar/i-vrr3wS5/0/L/Matt%20Molnar%20and%20David%20Cush%20aboard%20Virg in%20America%20innaugural%20flight%20LAX-PHL-6-L.jpg

http://pictures.mannyphoto.com/Airplanes/Spotting/Matt-Molnar/i-GRfz8z6/0/L/Matt%20Molnar%20and%20David%20Cush%20aboard%20Virg in%20America%20innaugural%20flight%20LAX-PHL-7-L.jpg

http://pictures.mannyphoto.com/Airplanes/Spotting/Matt-Molnar/i-6b9nsZg/0/L/Matt%20Molnar%20and%20David%20Cush%20aboard%20Virg in%20America%20innaugural%20flight%20LAX-PHL-8-L.jpg

http://pictures.mannyphoto.com/Airplanes/Spotting/Matt-Molnar/i-Sdjkr6h/0/L/Matt%20Molnar%20and%20David%20Cush%20aboard%20Virg in%20America%20innaugural%20flight%20LAX-PHL-9-L.jpg

http://pictures.mannyphoto.com/Airplanes/Spotting/Matt-Molnar/i-7kx5FMs/0/L/Matt%20Molnar%20and%20David%20Cush%20aboard%20Virg in%20America%20innaugural%20flight%20LAX-PHL-10-L.jpg

http://pictures.mannyphoto.com/Airplanes/Spotting/Matt-Molnar/i-gpZNXPr/0/L/Matt%20Molnar%20and%20David%20Cush%20aboard%20Virg in%20America%20innaugural%20flight%20LAX-PHL-11-L.jpg

http://pictures.mannyphoto.com/Airplanes/Spotting/Matt-Molnar/i-GcHzHmx/0/L/Matt%20Molnar%20and%20David%20Cush%20aboard%20Virg in%20America%20innaugural%20flight%20LAX-PHL-13-L.jpg


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PDwDGKfnthM

[gonzalu]

Matt took this picture with my camera as we departed LAX... what a beautiful image... and appropriate!

http://pictures.mannyphoto.com/Airplanes/Spotting/Matt-Molnar/i-WqPPDCm/0/O/Matt%20Molnar%20Pictures.jpg

[Fighting_falcon_51]

Although I don't have any amazing pictures of Matt, I do have a post that exemplifies his kindness.

Posted after my brother and Aunt were struck by a car at FRG @ Airshow 2010:

http://nycaviation.com/forum/threads/35160-Jones-Beach-Airshow-2010?p=423246&viewfull=1#post423246

[Landing Lights]

I never had the pleasure of meeting Matt in person, however I loved reading his quips on Twitter as well as the articles he wrote for NYCA and beyond. He will surely be missed by everybody in the aviation community. My deepest condolences to his family, his fiancé, Phil, and the entire NYCA community.

Tailwinds to you, brother.

[BORKE]

Phil,

My deepest condolences to you, Gina, Steve and the entire NYC Aviation family. While I didn't know Matt personally, I truly appreciated his articles, posts here and Tweets that helped me to enjoy aviation here in NYC. He will be missed, but he now he soars.

Sincerely,

Norm

[Altitude9]

Wow! Too young.
All my best,
-jdg

[heeshung]

I'm sure NYCA would not be what it is today if it weren't for Matt. My condolences and best wishes.

[nssd70]

I just wanted express my deepest sympathy to Matt's friends and family.

Doug

[Delta777LR]

This was my last post from Matt i mean the very last.

http://nycaviation.com/forum/threads/45109-Wind-Blows-UA-739-into-Fuel-Truck-at-BUF

[Mateo]

Very very sad news. My thoughts go out to his fiancee, family, and everyone in our community who mourns the loss.

[mirrodie]

Saw the remarks earlier and I texted Phil in rather crude fashion, completely taken back in shock.

I always called you two my Jay and Silent Bob of aviation. I will miss than.

From our family to Gina and Matt's, our deepest heartfelt condolences.

Godspeed and see you on the other side.

[eric8669]

I don't have any shots of Matt, but yesterday he assigned me to cover an event for NYCA and he's last email from last night said "see you tomorrow"

This one's for you Matt. This shot would not have been possible without his assistance.

http://i895.photobucket.com/albums/ac155/southpawcaptures/OVDunetzEric-61_zpse3081a2d.jpg

[Kris V]

Shocking to hear of Matt's passing, though I never had the privilege to meet him in person.

[megatop412]

To add to Manny's story, when he and Matt flew to Philly on that inaugural Virgin flight we were on the perimeter to catch them.

According to Manny, Matt is in the window seat right in front of the first wing emergency exit window. Had I known that I surely would have gone more telephoto to catch him filming the landing.
http://media11.dropshots.com/photos/476411/20120404/150935.jpg

What an unbelievable loss to our community.

[gonzalu]

William, I had totally forgotten about your pictures!!

[Vinny Ohare]

Sorry I never got the chance to me Matt. Sad day for our community. I feel for his family.

[CX777]

My deepest condolence to Gina & family. My one and only visit... you will be missed.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b212/RChangela/IMG_4354_zps7b652c0b.jpg

Raj C

[RomNYC]

That is a nice family picture Raj. Something to recreate some day, a gathering in honor of Matt?

[DHG750R]

Far too young to be taken away.. Never had the pleasure of meeting him in person, though I felt I knew him just a little thru his wonderful writing... rest peacefully Matt, may you always have tailwinds and clear skies.

Sad, sad day for Gina, his friends and family. You all are not alone. We stand with you.

Phil, If there is anything I can do to help, let me know
Darrell

[Art at ISP]

I am still in shock. I didn't know Matt as well as I know Phil, but this still hits me hard. To be taken so young just makes no sense. Phil, my condolences to you, Gina, Steve, and all Matt's family and friends.

RIP Matt.....

[bobm]

Unbelievable. My condolences to Matt's family, Gina, and all of his friends.

"Only the good die young."

[george]

Very sad news. My deepest condolences, You will be missed Matt..

[AirtrafficController]

I had the opportunity to meet Matt several times since I joined this website in 2007. Whether at Kid's Day or at the LGA Collectibles show, his passion for aviation was present whether he as holding his DSLR or a notepad during an interview.
Safe tailwinds Matt.

[NYCA News]

NYCAviation:

Aviation Loses a Great Man and a Better Friend (http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/nycaviation/~3/mWoGevSAYZE/)

NYCAviation lost Co-Owner Matt Molnar this week, a loss that means so much to the aviation world and all those that were lucky enough to call him a friend.http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/nycaviation/~4/mWoGevSAYZE
[Click to Read Full Article (http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/nycaviation/~3/mWoGevSAYZE/)]

[PhilDernerJr]

UNCONFIRMED Funeral info, likely Monday and Tuesday at:

Michael's Funeral Home
79-22 Metropolitan Avenue
Middle Village, NY 11379

[seahawks7757]

I never actually had the chance to meet Matt but I was looking forward to doing so finally when we were supposed to go to Poland, it Seemed LOT knew I had wanted to sit next to him as our seats were slated right next to each other for the entire trip. Sadly when the 787 was grounded our trip got cancelled and that was the most disappointing thing to me was not getting to meet him. Fast forward to yesterday when I got the news and it just hit deep.

[Chris S]

I'm very saddened to hear the shocking news about Matt's passing.:frown:
Matt did incredible work here on NYCA and he will be deeply missed.
My condolences and prayers go out to Matt's family and friends also.

[PhilDernerJr]

Wake and funeral services for Matt can be found here... http://www.michaelsfuneralhome.com/book-of-memories/1477487/Molnar--Matthew/service-details.php

[Tom_Turner]

Terribly saddened to read about Matt's untimely passing. On all the occasions we'd meet up in the field and chat briefly, Matt was consistently generous with his time and knowledge, not to mention patient, humble, funny, and smart. I wish now of course that I had known him better personally. He will obviously be missed by many. My condolences to his friends and family.

[Ychocky]

Matt's hard work and dedication for NYCAviation and the entire aviation enthusiast community have made our hobby a safer and more enjoyable venture.

My condolences to his family.

Phil, I've been planning an NYC spotting trip for a while, I would be honored to part of any community gathering in memory of this fine gentleman.

[PhilDernerJr]

We have gone ahead and created the Matt Molnar Memorial Fund. Matt had little left behind in terms of family, leaving his fiancé, Gina, to use what would have been their wedding fund to pay for his funeral and medical expenses. This fundraiser will go to offsetting those costs for her, and then also to donate to Matt’s preferred charities of The Humane Society and the Wounded Warrior Project.

Please help us by donating…
http://www.giveforward.com/mattmolnarmemorialfund

[gpalz1]

I don't frequent to this board as much as I like to, but when I do, you undeniably feel a strong sense of community. Thank you Phil and Matt for bringing us together to share what we all love in common here.

My condolences.

George

[NickPeterman]

Phil Et Al,

I was very sorry to hear the news of Matt's passing. Our interactions here on the site had always revealed him to be an incredibly kind person, one who I was glad to have had the opportunity to "meet". NYC Aviation has been a wonderful online home and community for me, and I know that he was such a huge part of that for all of us. My sincerest condolences to you, to Gina, and to all of his friends and family.

I think we all know that the next time we are out there and that burst of sun peeks through the clouds to illuminate that jet you were wanting, or the next time a runway switch puts a special right in front of you, we will know who to thank.

Blue Skies Matt.

[FlyingColors]

Phil,
I'm so sorry to hear of this tragic news. Way too soon. I read your piece and still can't imagine the depth of your loss. I don't know what else to say that has not already been said....

[gonzalu]

I have temporarily changed my website's front page in memory of Matt

http://www.thrustimages.com/

[coachrowsey]

My thought's & prayers to his family & friends and all who knew him.

[BigAppleCoder]

My deepest condolences to you guys at NYCAviation, his finance' Gina, his friends and to his family.

[PhilDernerJr]

New York Times obituary for Matt... http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/28/nyregion/aviation-world-shocked-by-death-of-airplane-enthusiast-matthew-molnar.html?_r=0

[Joe]

My condolences on everyone's loss, I did not know Matt, but I know a lot of my friends here are grieving and wanted to let you know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless!

[JHNA57]

I have never had the pleasure of meeting Matt, nor sadly anyone else on this site. His and Phil's dedication and enthusiasm to this site is certainly evident, and I believe that all the members here truly feel a loss. My condolences to all.

P.S. I believe the industry term is to "Fly West"

[Speedbird1]

This is indeed a sad loss for us and condolences to his family and fiance. I never really knew Matt except through his work on this wonderful website. His professionalism and dedication to our hobby is an inspiration to us all. I recall seeing Matt at Kid's Day and also at the TWA Terminal Open House last September, I am deeply saddened about this loss especially at such at early age. I lost my mother suddenly from a brain anyeurism as well back in 1972 so I know how the initial shock takes a while to wear-off. Matts' spirit will live on in our memories, in our thoughts, as well as in his outstanding photography and we will remember him whenever we hear the roar of an airline engine!

[Mellyrose]

Unfortunately, I was unable to make it back east to honor Matt, but I put this small compilation of photos together as a tribute for him.


https://vimeo.com/58393404

[eric8669]

Well done Mel.

[megatop412]

That was a very touching video, thank you very much Mel

[gonzalu]

Mel that was cool... thanks...

Today I had an opportunity to pay last respects to Matt and share a moment with his Fiancee Gina and her wonderful family. Matt and his wonderful family and all of Matt's great and loving friends. Great service and all I can say is, Rest in Peace, Matt!

Nice talking with Phil, Tom A., Daren, Mark and all the other members of our unique community !! Seeing the pictures on the side gallery helped and hurt a bit too :-)

[jerslice]

Nice video...I wish I could be there.

[727C47]

God bless him

[Pesach]

Wow. My deepest and sincerest condolences to Phil, Matt's family, and the entire NYCAviation community. What a truly sad day :(

Blue skies forever, Matt.

-Pesach

[MarkLawrence]

Great video Mel!!

I really wish I was in NYC this morning :( I'm sure that NYCA will be well represented though!!

[megatop412]

11/20/09- 1st AF A380 to JFK- Matt shot some excellent HD video of the event from Inwood Park. I was impressed with the big turnout and took a few crowd shots
http://media10.dropshots.com/photos/476411/20091120/141913.jpg

http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/476411/20091120/142022.jpg

http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/476411/20091120/142058.jpg

Rest In Peace Matt

[tipek]

Wow. I just read the news about Matt. My deepest condolences to Matt's family and friends. I've met Matt at the mounds back in 2009.
He was waaay to young to go.

[NIKV69]

11/20/09- 1st AF A380 to JFK- Matt shot some excellent HD video of the event from Inwood Park. I was impressed with the big turnout and took a few crowd shots
http://media10.dropshots.com/photos/476411/20091120/141913.jpg

http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/476411/20091120/142022.jpg

http://media8.dropshots.com/photos/476411/20091120/142058.jpg

Rest In Peace Matt

Wow I was remembering that day as one of the times I got a chance to see Matt in the field. Had a nice chat with him and Mr. Derner as well. R.I.P. Matt.

[PhilDernerJr]

Our good friend Matt is now underground, atop a hill at Cedar Grove Cemetery right off of the Van Wyck Expressway. He is close to CitiField, and right under the LGA rwy 13 departure path....I couldn't have picked a better spot.

You folks really have gotten me through this. I am so grateful to have you all as an extended family. As they lowered Matt into the ground, I could only smile at what a great life he lived, how grateful I am to have had him, and how I know we will all be able to carry on his legacy and memory for the duration.

[Vidiot]

I just found out when a pal sent me this thread, and then I found the NYT story. I don't come to NYCA that much but I've enjoyed talking with Matt about Queens, airplanes, media, Midtown, and all sorts of things. I've also talked with Gina some, in her capacity as a PR rep. I am so very sorry for her loss, and all of ours.

This is a shock, and I'm sorry I didn't find out till now. I trust that NYCA represented well at the funeral, and I've chipped in a little to the fund -- great idea, Phil, for setting that up. Lovely piece you wrote as well.

[wunaladreamin]

General Patton once said it is foolish and wrong to mourn the loss of people like this. Instead, we should celebrate that such people even lived. I know we're all mourning in our own way but really we should be thankful that we were able to get to know such an incredible person.

Stay strong Phil.

[Landing Lights]

The strength of this community over the past several days has been inspiring. From those who lost a best friend to those who only know him through the writing and images and code that he created, the support that we have been able to give for each other is something to be proud of. I firmly believe that the strength of the group is the sum of its parts, and although 1 part has been lost in this group, it remains strong and will only to grow stronger with time.

[JeffinMass]

I never knew Matt but you can see by this website that his heart was in the right place. May you rest in flight.

[tripo]

first i wanna say "my warm condolences to Matt's familly", and though i don't know him,but by watching the video i can say that he was a happy man and made those around him happy as well, so rest in peace

[wunaladreamin]

Happy birthday Matt. Fair winds and following seas always. You are not forgotten.

#missumatt