Matthew "Matt" W. Rinaldi

Born in Rochester, Matt spent his earliest years in his family-owned Hotel Pignataro on State Street, surrounded by grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. The hotel had welcomed immigrants from his family’s ancestral hometown in Italy. He remembered that lively, close-knit childhood with affection and later explored and documented his family’s roots across six generations.

Drawn to acting from a young age, Matt pursued theater in New York City, building a career that included professional stage productions, off-Broadway work, and documentary films. While working at WACK Radio in Newark NY, he met the love of his life Kathleen, who was the office manager for the radio station. They soon were married and started a family while Matt honed his skills working at various radio stations in the region. He brought that experience to broadcasting, becoming a recognizable presence on WBBF radio and WOKR-TV, Channel 13. Through programs including AM Rochester and Bowling for Dollars, he became part of the everyday rhythm of life in Rochester. His work brought people, stories, and conversations into viewers’ homes and earned him a lasting place in the city’s broadcasting history.

In his later career, Matt became involved in Marketing, working for the Genesee Country Museum, Sonnenburg Gardens, and Pine Hill Marketing, his own venture, which included Perinton Square Mall.

Matt shared 65 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Kathleen Mary Rinaldi, who preceded him in death in March 2025. Together, they enjoyed traveling to Ireland and Nova Scotia, along the California coast, and to coastal Maine. His love for Kathleen and his devotion to their family were central to his life.

Matt was a warm, joyful, and welcoming person—one of the nicest people you could ever meet. He made people feel at home and loved being surrounded by family and friends, especially during the holidays. As a husband, father, and grandfather, he cared tremendously for his family and was generous with his love and support. His family will remember his joyful presence, his welcoming spirit, and the way he made people feel cared for.

His generosity extended beyond his family. He contributed his time generously by fundraising, creating, and hosting events for many charitable causes, reflecting the kindness and concern for others that were so much a part of who he was.

Matt is survived by his sons, Paul and Christopher (Theresa); his grandchildren, Matthew, Ryan, Tiffany, Nichole, and Brandon, his brother Walt (Laural), and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Matt will be remembered with affection throughout Rochester and with enduring love by his family and friends. His memory will live on in their stories, their holiday gatherings, and the everyday moments made brighter by his warmth and kindness.

Relatives and friends may call on Sunday, November 8th, from 1-4PM at the Alvah Halloran & Son Funeral Home, 2125 Chili Ave. Rochester, NY 14624. He will be laid to rest in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Matt to a charity of your choice.