Author: Samuel Darren

Matt Nolan Death: It is with immense sadness and deep sorrow that we mourn the passing of Matthew Poli Nolan, a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend. Matthew, aged 41, of North Haven, Connecticut, tragically passed away on April 4, 2025. Born on March 6, 1984, in New Haven, Matthew was the son of Timothy and Ellyn (Shields) Nolan. His untimely departure has left a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the community that he loved and served so well. Though Matthew’s life was far too short, his legacy of love, loyalty, and dedication will live on forever.

Matthew’s life was defined by his devotion to his family, his unwavering commitment to those he loved, and his genuine kindness. He was the epitome of a devoted husband and father, always striving to provide for his family and ensuring they felt safe, loved, and supported. His passing is a heartbreaking loss, but the impact he made on the lives of those who knew him will remain long after his physical presence has left this world.

At the center of Matthew’s world was his beloved wife, Jennifer (Kendall) Nolan. Their relationship was one rooted in deep love, mutual respect, and unwavering support for one another. Matthew and Jennifer were partners in every sense of the word, sharing not only the responsibilities of marriage but also the joys and challenges of life. Their bond was unbreakable, built on a foundation of trust, love, and shared values.

Matthew’s love for Jennifer was evident in everything he did. Whether it was in small, everyday gestures or through his constant dedication to her happiness and well-being, Matthew’s devotion was clear. His passing has left an unimaginable gap in Jennifer’s life, but she will carry the love they shared with her always, knowing that their connection transcends time and space.

Matthew was also a proud and loving father to his two daughters, Annie Lynn and Katie Ellyn Nolan. As a father, Matthew was devoted, patient, and always ready to spend quality time with his children. His daughters were the center of his world, and he reveled in every moment spent with them. Whether it was helping them with their homework, playing with them in the yard, or simply enjoying quiet moments together, Matthew was always there for Annie and Katie, offering guidance, love, and a sense of security.

Matthew’s love for his daughters went beyond the traditional fatherly role. He was an active and engaged parent, making sure to create lasting memories with Annie and Katie, memories that they will cherish forever. His sense of humor, warmth, and easygoing nature created a home filled with laughter and love, and it is this legacy that his daughters will carry with them as they grow.

Matthew was also a deeply loved son to his parents, Timothy and Ellyn Nolan. From the moment he was born, Matthew brought joy and pride to his family. He was the type of son who would go above and beyond to ensure his parents felt appreciated and loved. As they reflect on the life of their son, Timothy and Ellyn will remember Matthew for his incredible work ethic, his caring nature, and his genuine commitment to his family’s happiness.

For his parents, Matthew was their pride and joy, and he grew up to be a kind, responsible, and generous man. His love for them was unwavering, and their bond was one filled with mutual respect and admiration. Though they are now left to navigate life without their son, the love they shared with Matthew will remain a guiding light in their lives.

Matthew was also a cherished brother to his siblings, Timothy Poli Nolan Jr. and Adam Poli Nolan. He shared a special bond with his brothers, built on shared experiences, laughter, and a deep understanding of one another. Timothy and Adam, along with their wives, Diana and Jennifer, remember Matthew as a brother who was always there for them, offering his support, humor, and love whenever they needed it.

As a family, they have many cherished memories of time spent together, whether it was during holidays, vacations, or simple family gatherings. Matthew’s presence was a constant source of joy and love, and his brothers will forever hold him in their hearts as a guide, confidant, and friend. The memories they created together will continue to provide them with strength and comfort as they face life without him.

Matthew’s love and loyalty extended beyond his immediate family. His sister-in-law, Krissy Kendall, and his mother-in-law, Marita Roddy, remember him as a man who was always welcoming, kind, and thoughtful. Matthew embraced his extended family with open arms, making sure that everyone felt included and loved. His warm heart and generosity touched the lives of many, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Matthew’s dedication to his family was matched only by his commitment to his community. He was the type of person who always put others first, whether through his work, his friendships, or his volunteer efforts. Matthew’s kind spirit and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He had a natural ability to bring people together and create bonds that would last a lifetime.

Friends, colleagues, and neighbors will remember Matthew as someone who could always be counted on, someone who would lend a hand without hesitation and offer words of comfort when needed. His generosity of spirit extended to everyone in his life, and his legacy of kindness will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Friends and family will gather to honor Matthew’s life and the impact he had on all who knew him. A visitation will be held on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Beecher & Bennett Funeral Home, 2300 Whitney Avenue, Hamden, CT. On Friday, April 11, 2025, at 11:00 am, a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Paul VI Parish/St. Rita Church, 1620 Whitney Avenue, Hamden, CT, with interment to follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions be made to a GoFundMe campaign to help support Matthew’s family as they navigate this difficult time. The link to the fundraiser is available: Help Matt’s Family Heal and Rebuild.

While the loss of Matthew Poli Nolan is immeasurable, his memory will forever live on through his loving wife, daughters, parents, brothers, extended family, and friends. His kindness, compassion, and unwavering love for those closest to him will continue to inspire all who knew him. Matthew’s legacy is one of love, family, and service—qualities that will never fade and will continue to shape the lives of those who were fortunate enough to call him their husband, father, son, brother, and friend.

Matthew, you will be deeply missed. Your love and your presence in our lives will never be forgotten, and we will carry you with us in our hearts always.

Hunter Hopson Death: In the world of racing, few people captured the essence of what it meant to live with passion, determination, and an unyielding love for the sport like Hunter Hopson. Tragically, at the age of 34, Hunter’s vibrant life was cut short in a fatal accident, leaving his family, friends, and the racing community heartbroken. Known for his fearless spirit on the track and his larger-than-life personality off of it, Hunter was more than just a driver — he was a beloved friend, a cherished brother, and a true member of the racing family. As we come to terms with the loss of this incredible man, we remember the joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories he left behind.

Hunter’s story is one of friendship, adventure, and relentless pursuit of his passions. For those lucky enough to know him, Hunter was the embodiment of loyalty and adventure. He was the kind of friend who would drop everything for the people he cared about. “Words will never truly describe how great of a friend you were to me,” one close friend shared. “We raised hell together as teenagers, and we were tied at the hip through all our crazy adventures.” Whether it was the wild late-night escapades, the countless runs they made together, or even the moments of racing against the clock — the bond Hunter shared with those closest to him was unbreakable.

As a teenager, Hunter was always in the thick of things — his personality infectious, his energy boundless. He didn’t just participate in life, he lived it, and he did so with intensity and joy. He and his friends could have written a book about the wild, reckless moments they shared, but it wasn’t just about the adrenaline-fueled experiences that bonded them. It was about trust, loyalty, and knowing that no matter what, they always had each other’s backs. “Hell, the running from the cops — we could have written a book together over the crazy things we did,” his friend reminisced. Even in those rebellious moments, Hunter showed the kind of unwavering loyalty and friendship that would last a lifetime.

Though life’s challenges and joys carried him forward, racing became Hunter’s true love. He became a staple at racetracks, his unmistakable presence fueling his passion for the sport. Hunter’s skill behind the wheel was evident, but it was his heart for racing — the camaraderie with his fellow racers, the thrill of the track, and the community that formed around the sport — that made him stand out. The racing world has truly lost one of its brightest stars with his passing. “Hunter Hopson #34 Factor Stock,” the announcement read, “has passed, and he has left us too soon.” The pain and grief were palpable as friends and fellow racers struggled to find the words to express their sorrow. “We have lost another racer,” they wrote, a sentiment echoed by so many who knew him.

Hunter Hopson Bullard, TX Obituary: Beloved Racer Sadly Dies In Fatal Accident at 34

One of the last memories his friends hold dear is the final time they shared together. For those who had the privilege of spending time with him, Hunter’s affection and love were unmistakable. A friend recalled their last dinner together, where, before parting ways, Hunter embraced them with a warm hug and said, “I love you.” It was a simple yet profound moment, a reminder of the depth of his heart and the connections he forged throughout his life. As his friend put it, “I love you more than life, you were truly a brother to me, the one I never had.” That final hug, those final words, would be forever etched in the hearts of all who knew him.

Racing was a family for Hunter, and for many, he was more than just a fellow racer; he was a brother. The racing community came together to mourn the loss of one of their own. “Fly high, 34r,” a fellow racer wrote, a tribute to Hunter’s racing number that had come to symbolize his spirit and presence on the track. “Hunter, you will be so missed and so loved,” they continued, struggling to comprehend the loss of someone so full of life and promise. “Watch over us, Hunter Hopson.”

But it wasn’t just the racing community that felt Hunter’s absence. For those who were close to him, Hunter was a cherished part of their lives. One of his friends described him as “my bonus child,” a reflection of the warmth and closeness that Hunter extended to those around him. “I can’t even fathom how your momma feels right now,” they wrote, heartbroken by the pain that Hunter’s family must be feeling. His loss was a heavy blow, not just to his parents but to his extended family and loved ones who had watched him grow into the man he was.

Hunter was also a loving father, and for those who had the privilege of seeing him as a parent, his love for his children was unmistakable. His passing leaves a void for his children — Aubree, Ryker, and Rynlee — who will carry with them the memory of a father who loved them with all his heart. “Hunter, you still had life, kids, Aubree, plans,” another loved one wrote, unable to believe that the future they had all envisioned together was no longer possible. “Gathering these little treasures of you and Isaiah over the years, I can still remember each of these moments and hear your voice loud and clear.” In those cherished memories, Hunter’s spirit remains alive, a reminder of the love he had for his family and the joy he brought into their lives.

As we navigate this heartbreaking loss, we must also find comfort in knowing that Hunter’s impact will never fade. His legacy lives on not only in the racing world but in the hearts of his family, friends, and loved ones. The memories of his laughter, his wild adventures, and his unwavering love for those around him will continue to shine brightly. For all the moments we shared with him — the good, the bad, and the crazy — we will remember Hunter Hopson not for his passing, but for the life he lived.

Hunter, though your time with us was far too short, you left behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and unbreakable bonds. You were a brother, a son, a friend, and a racer who lived life on your terms, with passion and an open heart. We will miss you dearly, but we know that your spirit will forever guide us, just as you always did. Fly high, 34r. We love you, and we’ll carry you in our hearts until we meet again.