Matthias A. ‘Wirtzy’ Wirtz
North Haven Firefighter Matthias A. “Wirtzy” Wirtz, 46, of North Haven, passed away unexpectedly early Monday morning, Dec. 26, while protecting his community fighting a fire with his brother firefighters. He was the loving husband of Barbara Cardito. Matt was born in New Haven, on Aug. 25, 1976, and was the beloved son of Erika Zwinger Wirtz and the late Matthias L. Wirtz.
A graduate of Notre Dame High School, West Haven, he later earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of New Haven. He was a firefighter for the North Haven Fire Department for 22 years and a security guard for Hopkins School, New Haven. He taught future firefighters at Gateway Community College Fire Program. He was an avid soccer fan, fourth degree member of the Knights of Columbus, and a member of the New Haven County Emerald Society Pipes and Drums and the Meriden Turner German Society.
He was the brother of Monika Lussier, Helga Beckett, the late Peter Wirtz, and their children. He is also survived by Barbara’s children, Raymond Ayoub and Alexandra Springer (Christopher); and his faithful companion, his dog Rosie.
The visiting hours were on Jan 2, at The Havens Family North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Jan. 3, at St. Elizabeth of Trinity Parish at St. Barnabas Church, 44 Washington Avenue, North Haven. Entombment with full departmental honors followed in the All Saints Mausoleum. Please omit flowers and if so desired, a contribution in Matt’s name may be made to North Haven Professional Firefighters Charitable Association, PO Box 191, North Haven, CT 06473. www.northhavenfuneral.com.