Matthew Gerald O'Neill

It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Matthew Gerald O'Neill on July 24, 2025, at the age of 55. Matt was born on June 25, 1970, in Oakville, Ontario, to his parents, Joella and Gerald O’Neill. As the eldest of three sons, he led the way with his passion for sports and his love of Heavy Metal music. During his teenage years, he developed a gift for sharp, humorous one-liners that made him a favourite in high school variety shows. He found his confidence through his voice—whether delivering the morning announcements or emceeing school events at St. Peter Secondary School. With the encouragement of teachers, he followed his passion to Loyalist College in Belleville, Ontario, where he studied radio broadcasting. From humble beginnings as an announcer at CKPT in Peterborough—followed by roles in Espanola and later Wingham, Ontario—to a stint in Toronto as a morning show host at The Mix, Matt eventually made his way to Calgary. There, he co-hosted the Jack FM morning show for 12 years. It was also in Calgary that Matt met his future wife, Paige, and where they welcomed their two sons, Liam and Beck. Matt was deeply involved in the Calgary community, supporting several charitable organizations including Big Brothers Big Sisters, KidSport, and The Mustard Seed Shelter. Matt’s pride in his boys knew no bounds. He was happiest when playing road hockey with them or cheering them on at the rink. Almost as much as he loved their on-ice cellies, he loved a good prank or joke—often calling his parents, brothers, or longtime friends live on air just to pull them into the fun. Matt also connected with his listeners on a deeper, more personal level. With courage and candour, he shared his own struggles with addiction and mental health. His openness and humility helped create space for honest conversations and brought comfort to many facing similar challenges. Matt is lovingly remembered by his sons, Liam and Beck; his parents, Joella and Gerald; his brothers, Kevin (Melissa) and David (Cecile); his nieces, Liliana, Charlotte, and Maeve; his nephew, Jude; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and loving friends. A Celebration of Matt’s Life will be held at 100 ACRES BREWERY,  390 Ashburnham Dr, Peterborough on September 14, 2025 from 5::30 -10:30PM. Words of Remembrance beginning at 6:00 pm. where there will be an opportunity for friends and family to share memories, poems, or short readings, if they wish.   After the ceremony, refreshments will be served and beer will be available from the brewery.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Matt’s memory to Right to Heal PTBO or KidSport Calgary would be deeply appreciated by his family. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the many friends, support workers, and the and therapists who stood by Matt—guiding, encouraging, and reminding him to live with courage. Your kindness and empathy have meant so much as we strive to honour his memory. In Matt’s own words: “Matt’s Hockey Parent Tip #138: Keep your head when walking behind the net during warm-ups.”