Biography

1LT Mathew Gregory Fazzari

First Lieutenant Mathew “Mat” Gregory Fazzari of Walla Walla was remembered as a son, brother, husband, father, friend, and hero. His loss was felt throughout the Walla Walla Valley and far beyond.

Mathew was born on December 1, 1986, in Walla Walla to Greg and Susan Mock Fazzari. He attended the Catholic schools in Walla Walla and graduated from Gonzaga University in Spokane in 2010. Throughout his life, he was a top athlete, competing in football, baseball, and skiing. Demonstrating a deep love for his country, he graduated in the top 5% of nationwide ROTC cadets and finished as number one in his flight school class at Fort Rucker, Alabama. He was known as an outstanding and unselfish young man with a deep faith, willing to risk his life for the freedom others enjoy.

First Lieutenant Fazzari died on June 6, 2012, when his OH‑58 Kiowa helicopter was brought down by enemy fire in Afghanistan. Also killed on board was Capt. Scott Pace. According to Gonzaga University ROTC leaders who spoke with the Spokesman‑Review, the actions of Fazzari and Pace saved the lives of other soldiers that day. His death was felt across the Inland Northwest—from Spokane to Clarkston to the Valley—and even around the world, colleagues said.

His return to his hometown was marked by the thousands of Walla Walla residents who lined the streets as his body was brought home to be buried in June 2012. The procession was conducted by military and law enforcement personnel from around the region. His family told the Union‑Bulletin shortly after his death that they were in shock, but abundantly grateful for the outpouring of community support in the days that followed.

Fazzari is survived by his wife, Tovah Fazzari of Walla Walla, who had been the love of his life since high school, and by their two young sons, Dominic (2) and Samuel (8 months). He is also survived by his parents; his sister, Danielle; his brothers, Luke and Shawn; his grandmother, Marie Fazzari, all of Walla Walla; his grandparents, Dean and Arla Mock of Richland; and his great‑grandmother, Evelyn Mock of Spokane. He leaves behind numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. His grandfather, Sam Fazzari of Walla Walla, preceded him in death.

A funeral Mass was held Friday, June 22, at Assumption Catholic Church in Walla Walla, followed by a graveside service at Mountain View Cemetery and a reception at Assumption Parish Hall. On Saturday, June 23, a Community Memorial Service was held at Cordiner Hall at Whitman College to celebrate and commemorate his life. A Rosary was held at Assumption Church on Thursday, June 21.

A memorial plaque honoring First Lieutenant Fazzari stands on the grounds of Animal Clinic East on East Isaacs Avenue, as well as a Gold Star Memorial Monument located at the corner of Dalles Military Road and Myra Road.