Buffalo, New York (November 22, 2005) – Rural/Metro Medical Services in Western New York is mourning the loss of a good friend and employee. Matthew M. Rhoney, 28, died Friday November 18, 2005 at his home in Derby, New York. Matt passed away unexpectedly in his sleep.

“Matt was a shining star at Rural/Metro” said Rob Zachrich, General Manager of Rural/Metro in Western New York. “He always brought a great deal of enthusiasm and energy to everything he did, and always with a smile. He will be sorely missed by all of us here”.

Born in Lewiston, he attended Niagara-Wheatfield schools, where he was involved in the athletic association, wrestling and youth soccer programs. While in high school, he played junior varsity and varsity soccer and was in the school play in his senior year. He graduated in 1995.

He was a member of the Sanborn, New York Volunteer Company and volunteered with the Tri-Community Ambulance Service in Sanborn, where he once was recognized for serving on the most calls in a year.

For the last six years Matt was an EMT with Rural/Metro Medical Services. His Area Manager, Cliff Smith said of Matt, “He had a passion for everything in his life. EMS, his friends and family, and most of all, his wife Deanna and their infant daughter Isabella.”

He also was recognized by Rural Metro for saving the life of a dog at a fire scene. His father says that Matt burst through the door the day he and his partner saved the dog exclaiming, “You’ll never guess what I did at work today!”

A scholarship fund has been established for Matt’s three-month old daughter Isabella. Contributions can be sent to the “Isabella Rhoney Scholarship Fund” in care of Rural/Metro Medical Services, 481 William L. Gaiter Parkway, Buffalo, New York 14215.

General Manager Rob Zachrich also announced today that the annual EMS “Above and Beyond Award” will now be known as the “Matthew M. Rhoney Memorial Award”. It is given to an EMS provider who gives all of themselves on every call, going above and beyond, and making a difference in the lives of those they touch.

Surviving are his parents, Michael D. and Cynthia of Sanborn; his wife of two years, the former Deanna Orlando; his daughter Isabella; and two brothers, Dennis G. of Buffalo, and Kevin P. of Sanborn.