Schaghticoke - Rensselaer County Michael Anthony Matala of Route 40 passed away on Thursday, July 4, 2013. He was 62. Born in Troy on February 10, 1951, son of the late John Matala and Madelyn (Thompson) Matala. Mr. Matala is a veteran of the U. S. Army. For most of his career he worked as a logger with his father. He also worked construction and drove truck for Warren W. Fane, Inc. A member of the Round Mountain Rod and Gun Club, he enjoyed being outdoors and was an avid sportsman. He loved his camp and built his home on the same property. On October 22, 2005, that's where he married Cynthia (Warner) Matala. Survivors include his children, John (Nicole) Matala of Cambridge, Jeremy (Christine) Matala of Schaghticoke, Holly K. Matala-Cipperley of Eflan, NC and Michael J. Matala of Johnsonville. He was known as Papa Tractor by his grandchildren Kyle Kenneth and Logan Michael Cipperley, Kiera Noelle and Hunter Christian Matala, John Michael and Abel Jacob Matala, and Tierney Violet Bailey. He is also survived by his siblings Linda Burke of Mechanicsville, MD and Christine (Bill) Neilson of Stillwater. Relatives and friends may call from 3-7 on Thursday, July 11, 2013 at the Hoosic Valley Community Church, 2024 State Route 40, Schaghticoke. Memorial service will be conducted at 11am on Friday at the church. Kindly consider memorials to the Hoosic Valley Rescue Squad, the Melrose Fire Department or The Animal Support Project, Inc. Online remembrances may be made at www.chasesmithfamily.com