Community Comes Together To Help Local Family After Loss

WESTHAMPTON BEACH, NY — In times of darkness, the community comes together to light the way for those left behind.

Matthew Eckart, 39, of Westhampton Beach died on Dec. 18, leaving a trail of broken hearts. And now, those who loved him have come together to help the child he left behind.

A GoFundMe, "Matt's Funeral Expenses and Daughter's Future," was organized by Brian Tymann.

"Matthew Eckart passed away in his childhood home in Westhampton
Beach," the page read. "The outpouring of love from friends and family was immediate and quickly showed what an impact his life made."

Eckart, the page said, leaves behind many who will miss him deeply. "His pride for his
family, friends and home ran deep and all who loved him could feel that. He was most proud of
his beautiful daughter Adrianna and he shined so brightly whenever they were together. His
laughter and spirit will be missed here greatly. His mother and grandmother now embrace him in
heaven."

Once the funeral expenses are met, any additional amount raised will be put put into a trust for Adrianna, "exactly how Matt wanted it.Thanks aren’t enough, but we humbly thank you all for your support," Matt's cousin Danielle said.

Tymann added: "Thanks to all of you, we will be able to provide a significant nest egg for Adrianna's future. We are all grateful, but nobody is as grateful as Matt. He is smiling on his journey."

A traditional paddle will be held on April 2, the day after what would have been Eckart's 40th birthday, at Jetty 4. "Spread the word and let's make it an epic tribute to our friend," Tymann said.

Details on the paddle will follow on Facebook.

GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner.