Matthew D. Petruna

Matthew D. Petruna, 39, of 922 Middle Street, Pittsburgh and formerly of St. Marys, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, January 4, 2026.

He was born September 9, 1986, in St. Marys, son of Linda M. Petruna and Dennis E. Walker (Charlotte), both of St. Marys.  Matthew was a graduate of Elk County Catholic High School, Class of 2005 and Clarion University, Class of 2009, where he studied Finance.

He was a man of many talents and was very intelligent. He worked as a chef, where his creativity and passion for food brought joy to many.  Prior to his career as a chef, Matthew worked in the banking industry as a loan officer and other roles.  Matthew had a unique way of seeing the world.  He found beauty in architecture and art.  His creativity and curiosity could be seen in the photographs that he took.  He will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and lasting impact he made on those who knew him.

In addition to his loving mother and father, Matthew is survived by his maternal grandfather, John Petruna of St. Marys; paternal grandfather, Harold Walker of St. Marys; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in the St. Mary’s Catholic Church on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 10:00AM with Rev. Ignatius Camello, O.S.B., celebrating.  Burial will be in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

There will be no visitation.

Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to the Epilepsy Foundation, 3540 Crain Highway, Suite 675, Bowie, MD 20716, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 315 Church Street, St. Marys, PA 15857, a local humane society, or to a local food bank.