Matt Cusimano Obituary

Matt "The Champ" Cusimano, 74 of Fresno, Ca passed away peacefully in the comfort of his own home on February 10, 2020. Matt died of natural causes and was attended by with his devoted wife of 32 years, Mrs. Kathy Bermel.

Matt was born On July 2, 1945, to Dominic and Vieno Cusimano in Waukegan, IL. He resided there with his 5 siblings until 1953 when the family relocated to San Jose, Ca.

In his early years while serving in the national guard, Matt began a boxing career and became a professional boxer from 1965-1970. He was known as Matt "Valentino"Cusimano due to his handsome looks and strong punch. He went on to become "All Army Junior Middleweight Champion" and eventually won the "Golden Gloves" giving him the Middle Weight Champion Title. He moved on to acting and debuted in many commercials and films such as "Mack the Knife", Co-Host of "the Italian Hour" and most commonly known for his role as "Pretty Boy Max" in the PB Maxx Commercial for Mars Candy Bars.

Matt was an avid inventor with many skills and talents. He enjoyed making tools and creating many beautiful things such as wrought iron gates seen throughout Beverly Hills and Northern California. His greatest accomplishment was the invention of the mobile home foundation system that is still used today throughout the United States.

Matt cherished family above all things and considered everyone he cared for family. He loved to make people laugh, tell jokes, perform card tricks, and immerse himself in spending time with those he loved. Matt's interests were as varied as he was entertaining; he loved to watch old westerns, boxing (not UFC), and anything involving history. Always creating, Matt spent a great amount of time drawing and was also a member of the Screen Actors Guild.

Matt is survived by his wife Kathy, 2 remaining brothers Andy and Jack, his 8 children who he thought the world of Dominic, Vieno (Chris), John (Amanda), Jo Ann, Jack, Gina (David), Vicky and Tony. His 14 beloved grandchildren Matthew, Caiden, Chloe, Broderick, Xarek, Giavanna, Zane, Hunter, Giovanni, Nikita, Keaona, Kara, Kyle and Kaylee and his only great grandchild Austin. He also left behind 7 canine companions.

Matt joins his father Dominic, mother Vieno, brother Dominic, two sisters Rosa and Helen and son in law Ronald as we celebrate his final resting place.