How can you summarize the life of someone who touched so many? Matthew Marvin Bookstein, 52, lost his 25-year battle with Multiple Sclerosis on Saturday, June 10th, 2023. He passed in the early hours of a quiet morning peacefully in his bed in the home he shared with his parents, Stuart and Margaret (Wirtanen) Bookstein, and three dogs, Rupert, Stanley and Jack.


Matthew was born December 28, 1970 in Hollywood, Florida, and grew up in Yarmouth Port, MA, where he was an All Cape All Star soccer player for Cape Cod Regional Technical High School, His education led him to Cape Cod Community College, then to Worcester State, earning a BS in technology. He was an outdoorsman, enjoying time with the Explorer's Club, and engaging in white water rafting and a passion for skiing which took him to as many mountains as he could in each season. Matthew worked for the Steamship Authority in the IT department until his illness prevented him from continuing.


MS slowly took over his body, but not his spirit. Despite the seemingly endless treatments and appointments, Matthew was never one to complain, or pity himself and say “Why me?” Instead, he participated in the local MS walks to raise money for research, leading the team of "Matt's MSfits" decked out in signature orange. He was always quick with a joke, a zinger, and one-liners, usually directed towards his mother, that would leave you shaking your head, with a smile on your face. His wit was quick, his time on this earth was far too quick.


Those who knew Matthew were the fortunate ones. Matt had a way of leaving a lasting impression on you. He had a good heart, a caring soul, and was as loyal as the day is long. He fought his condition for as long as he could, all with a smile and a one liner. He left a trail of positivity, humor, and love in the volume of people that he met over the years, and those lucky enough to be part of that trail are blessed indeed.


Matthew is survived by his parents, his beloved dogs, his loving aunts and uncles and numerous cousins with whom he remained very close. He leaves behind his lifelong friend, Gina Ferris and her family, countless friends, co-workers, caretakers and acquaintances, and very caring neighbors Glenn and Jeannie Martin and their family. Everyone should be blessed to have friends and neighbors like them.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Daniel Arnold, Dr. John Hamjiian, Dr. Alycia Markowski, the support from his former boss Mary Claffey and the amazing staff at Liberty Commons in Chatham. Thanks to the VNA nurses and Physical Therapists and the singing duets with Matt and his Val Gal will be missed.


A celebration of life will be held at the Bookstein residence on June 24th from 1 to 4pm. All are welcome to attend and share their Matt stories. Burial will be private at a later date.


In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 101 First Avenue, Suite 6, Waltham, MA 02154 or the charity of one's choice

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