Matthew Mullen Death & Obituary: The Camp Mather community is mourning the tragic loss of Matt Mullen, a 20-year-old assistant cook who died in a hiking accident on Thursday, August 8, 2024. Camp Mather, a beloved family summer camp near Hetch Hetchy Reservoir in Yosemite National Park, has been deeply affected by this sudden and heartbreaking event.
Details of the Accident
The exact circumstances surrounding Matt Mullen’s fatal accident remain under investigation. The San Francisco Recreation and Parks department has not released detailed information about the incident. According to SFGATE, officials are working to understand the causes and contributing factors behind the accident, which occurred while Mullen was hiking with his coworkers on his day off.
Community and Staff Response
Daniel Montes, a representative for San Francisco Recreation and Parks, shared the profound impact of Mullen’s passing on the camp community. Montes emphasized the close-knit nature of Camp Mather, where staff members form strong bonds. “It is inconceivable that a colleague could be lost in such a manner,” Montes remarked, highlighting the disbelief and sorrow felt by all.
In response to the tragedy, the San Francisco Department of Public Health has dispatched grief counselors to Camp Mather. These professionals are offering support to both staff and campers affected by the loss. KRON4 reported that ongoing assistance will be available through the employee assistance program to help Mullen’s coworkers cope with the emotional aftermath of the accident.
Matt’s Family
Matt Mullen is survived by his extended family, including the Turgeons in Sacramento, the Ayres in Fort Jones, the DeAndreis-McManus family in McKinleyville, and the DeAndreis families in San Francisco, Foster City, and Lodi. His relatives also include Uncle Pete DeAndreis in Eureka, the Wiley family in San Mateo and San Francisco, Aunts Jan and Liz, and the Mullen families in Daly City, Boston, and Kansas City. Matt’s 98-year-old grandpa Joe DeAndreis and 90-year-old great aunt Sr. Sally Brady, O.P., have been a source of blessing and prayer throughout his life. Matt will be welcomed to heaven by Uncle Mike Turgeon, Great Aunt Joan (Brady) Carella, Grandpa Francis Mullen (Pa Frank), and his loving grandmothers, Mary Leah (Carroll) DeAndreis and Ann (Brady) Mullen.
Ongoing Support
In this challenging time, the outpouring of support for Matt Mullen’s family and the Camp Mather community has been overwhelming. The impact Mullen had on those around him is evident in the numerous expressions of sympathy and solidarity. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him, and the camp community continues to honor his spirit and dedication as they navigate this difficult period.
Tributes
Matt Mullen’s passing is a significant loss for both Camp Mather and the broader community. His adventurous spirit and positive presence are fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. As the investigation into the circumstances of his death continues, the camp and Mullen’s loved ones find comfort in the support they receive and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.
Funeral Arrangements
A celebration of Matt Mullen’s life and a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 23, 2024, at St. Ignatius Church, 3235 Arden Way, Sacramento. A reception will follow the service. Those wishing to honor Matt’s memory may contribute to the Kino Border Initiative or the Friends of Camp Mather.