In Memory of Matthew Ragusa

On July 4th 2021 our hearts were shattered by the passing of Matthew Ragusa. A beloved father, brother-in-arms, and dedicated servant to God, his country, and our community. Matt was born in Wind Gap and attended Pen Argyl High School. Matt then joined the United States Marine Corps where he became a Motarman and later an Intelligence Specialist. He was a combat veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. Ragusa was honorably discharged and began his next chapter of service as a City of Bethlehem Police Officer in January 2015.

It was immediately apparent to all who worked with him that this profession was his calling. “Goose” as he was known by his brothers and sisters, quickly became a leader among his peers. He earned a position on the Emergency Response Team and became one of the department’s best Field Training Officers (FTO). Matt was much more than just an FTO to the new officers he was responsible for. He was a mentor and a friend. Calm and cool under pressure he was a steadying hand in times of unfathomable chaos. Matt was the consummate professional you wanted next to you when the job got tough. Working steady nightshift his entire career he was a beckon of light to countless citizens who needed hope in their darkest hour.

Even with his immeasurable service and sacrifice there is no greater gift he gave to the world than the 3 boys he and his wife Stephanie created. Xavier (13) loved spending time with his Dad at the range. Learning from the best instructor a boy could ask for. Braxton (10) remembers going to the Iron Pigs and watching Matt catch a foul ball like only a hero could. Lex (6) was his father’s shadow and idolized Matt. Whether it was going for walks to collect rocks or just making breakfast, as long as he was with his Dad.

In the end our heroes, no matter how Herculean they appear, are only human. We take for granted the burdens we place on them and the sacrifices they make for us. In death, let us not let Matt’s contributions be overlooked. The Fraternal Order of Police Star Lodge #20 humbly requests your help to assist Stephanie and their boys during this difficult time. Matt was the sole source of income for the family and the financial burdens are overwhelming. Please help us honor a lifelong servant and the family he loved with all his heart.

We may never understand your pain, but we will never forget your memory. Love you Goose.

Direct Payments can be made to FOP Star Lodge #20.

FOP Star Lodge #20

PO Box 1387

Bethlehem PA, 18016