To make sure that his casts knew who was in charge Mr. B would tell us " There's God, there's Moses and there's Bonnano." But he always allowed the cast members to try out their ideas if a scene wasn't working right. And he'd keep any good idea if it worked better than his.

Thinking of you today and how you shaped my life...  Thank you Mr. B!

My condolences to the Bonanno family.  Matthew was a wonderful man with a heart of gold.  I will miss him and all his wonderful stories.  Everytime I have pretzels I will think of him (inside joke).  RIP Matthew.

My teacher and my mentor at NMHS. His memory will always be alive in me. A beautiful man. Blessings. 

Mr. B's Leadership and Guidance Touched The Lives of ALL WHO KNEW HIM and for Sooo Many of Us who had the HONOR TO ADD FRIENDSHIP, His Influences Are Forever!! I know My 40+:Years of the 382 Worldwide Tasks, EVERY Theatrical Experience I've Enjoyed, and Some GREAT Food Along The Way All Had His Hand in My Life!! ... My Thoughts and Prayers to His Family... RIP!!

The first show I did for Mr. B was Li'l Abner as Pappy Yokum. He called me Pappy for the rest of his life and that was cool by me. When you worked on his shows Matt became more like a father figure and a friend. He was always encouraging his cast to do better but never in an insulting way. Yes he pushed us to work hard but that's what it takes to do theater. And when the curtain came down the applause was just as much his as it was ours. We worked as a team because Matt taught us the importance of working with each other, leaving our differences behind.  My heart feels a great emptiness now that he's gone, but the lessons he taught me still influence whatever I do in life. He was the best for this reason.

So sorry for your loss to all of you..A memory shared as Matt was a Teacher,Coach and Colleague.My first teaching job was at N.M.H.S.M .I remember going to Matts house in New Milford and he used his wood working skills to  helped me refinish my Fiddle /Violin.I still have the instrument and it is in good shape.As a cherished memory and so much more.So sorry hear again of his passing.

Thanks Mr B for all you did for me during my time  as a football player, you were a great help with my ailments! You will be dearly missed by all may your family find peace in this time.

Although I never had Mr. B for a teacher I saw a lot of him in high school being part of the chorus for the wonderful talent shows he and Mr. Thompson put on each year.  My best friend, Connie, was the choreographer for all the shows so I got to see a lot of Mr B in those precious high school years.  May Mr. B Rest In Peace in the knowledge of how his life impacted for good the lives of so many students.  One good teacher can make a world of difference.  I have always thought that teaching is the most important job in the world. 

I will always have very fond memories of working with Mr. Bonanno on the NMHS production of "Fiddler on the Roof".  As I have gotten older, I have come to appreciate those who taught me in NMHS. Thanks, Mr. Bonanno. "Requiescat in pace"

PS: You were right Matt Bonanno, Ferruccio Tagliavini was a better opera singer than Mario Lanza.

PART 3 OF 3   I went on to open a party place where kids could sing and dance on a stage and be a “star”.   I was blessed to do that for 13 years.   Even now, as a Wedding Officiant having performed over a thousand ceremonies, I draw on that same self confidence as I stand before many people to do my job.   CBS, as we were known, (Connie Rovetto, Barbara DiGrazia & Sherry Jones) will always remember our times with you when we all met up for Coffee in the diner after HS as you offered your well seasoned advice about what was going on in our lives.You never pulled any punches and always told it like it was.  You always called me “Rovetto” and Barbara was always “DiGrazia”. About ten years ago, the last time that I saw you, I was so very fortunate to be able to tell both you, “Mr. B.” and “Mr. T.”, in person, all of this at a little reunion event at my party place.  I was so grateful that night to have the opportunity to tell you in my own words and through my tears of gratitude, how you impacted my life during and long after high school.  “Mr. T.” presented me that night with some of his own personal scrapbook photos of our shows and I am forever grateful that he did.  They are my prized possessions.    I have a picture of the three of us from that night which I will always treasure.   Many attending that evening were so thrilled to see you both again.   Someone recently sent me a picture of the program from Only for Lovers & I treasure that as well.
    I am certain that you are now directing the Angels and Saints along with “Mr. T.” in an original Heavenly production that only the 2 of you could write.  You are & forever will be New Milford’s own Rodgers and Hammerstein. You will always be a huge part of the fabric of my heart.  Movies made about wonderful teachers who positively changed & impacted the lives their students cannot compare to you and “Mr. T.” &the many students forever touched by our time at NMHS.  My heartfelt condolences to the Bonanno Family  RIP 

Part  2 of 3    “Mr. B.” & “Mr. T.” went out of their way to include so many in the school.  “Mr. B.’s”  Shop students participated in set building, lighting, etc.  The Band students played the music.  The Art students participated in set design.   They reached out to and included the “Danny Zukos” & the “Vinny Barbarinos” of the time, along with anyone of the “Nerds”, “Jocks” or “Cool Kids” that wanted to be a part of the excitement of “show time” at New Milford High School.  Oh what a time it was. Confidence was instilled.  Pride was abundant and memories are life lasting.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  I remember hearing “Mr. B.”  perform  “Because of You” by Tony Bennett at a school show when I was about 14.  I wasn’t really fully aware of Tony Bennett at the time but “Mr. B.’s” rendition of the song and beautiful voice showcased his own true talent.  All the students and parents were so impressed with his singing.  I will always associate that song with you, “Mr. B.”.  “Mr. B”,  because of you, I went on to manage my ex-husband’s show across the country.   I went on to write and direct some shows for my own kids’ school.  Another mother at the school remembered all the shows at NMHS and recruited me to do some fundraising with a “show”.   Taking my cues from you, with the very first show, we were able to purchase a new stage curtain for the auditorium, new stage lights and new music books for the students.   I was so proud.  I was hooked and did two other original shows.  When students or parents thanked me, I, in my heart and my mind, thanked you “Mr. B.” and “Mr. T.”.  for all that you taught me and that I was able pass on.   Because of you “Mr. B.”, I realized the impact that having the self confidence to be on stage can give to a child

 PART 1 OF 3  MUCH TO SAY
"TO SIR WITH LOVE"
     “THOSE SCHOOLGIRL DAYS OF TELLING TALES AND BITING NAILS ARE GONE.  BUT IN MY MIND, I KNOW THEY WILL STILL LIVE ON AND ON”  I am so deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my teacher, my mentor and my friend, Mr. Matthew Bonanno – “Mr. B.  I could write a novel about the impact that he had on my life.  High School can sometimes be difficult, especially if you’re the new girl.  I wouldn’t trade my High School experience for all the money in the world.   It impacted so much of my life in ways that I couldn’t imagine.  I was fortunate to be part of the Theater Group and Chorus taught and directed by “Mr. B.” and “Mr. T.” (Dick Thompson RIP).  They saw in me what I didn’t see in myself and trusted me with many solo performances and the coveted job of choreographer in their “masterful” productions.  Whether it was running down the aisle of the auditorium as the Ring Master, with a whip no less,  dancing to the Pink Panther or the pretend shooting of “Johnny” in “Frankie & Johnny”, you created such unbelievable memories for me.  I will never forget the look in your steel blue eyes when we all got it right nor will I ever forget the look when we didn’t especially when I wouldn’t wear the black wig while dancing and portraying Anne Miller.  I was so proud to sit in the auditorium with you for auditions and rehearsals.  I still consider myself so fortunate to have had those opportunities.  How I wish we had cell phone pictures and videos back then. It’s hard to put into words level of work, dedication, professionalism and passion that went into these original productions by “Mr. B.” and “Mr. T.”  “Only for Lovers” and “Only for Jokers” along with every other show, concert and production that, together, they wrote, produced and directed were above and beyond a high school level.   So many students were forever impacted from being part of the great and unforgettable camaraderie these shows fostered. 

I was in Mr. Bonanno’ s Mechanical Drawing class in the early 1960’s. His teaching style was no nonsense and he pushed you to improve your work from one assignment to the next. His commitment to his students became obvious years later and causes me to think of him often. He left mark by teaching and his memory lives on. My condolences to his family and friends. 



I have many fond thoughts of "B". He taught me to swing a hammer because one day he said you will buy a home and you will want things done right! He introduced me to Golf  because he said you need to learn to play because it will be good for business. Both passions he loved and shared and I am grateful for even to this day.
God Bless Uncle B. 

I took drafting for I think at least three years, maybe four!

I questioned everything he did, why that way, why this way Mr. Bonano .. after like the 1,000th time, and too many Pink Pearl firing squads, he said “Farrell, I don’t know if I’ve ever had a student that I like less than you”.  I knew he really liked me, but didn’t want to admit it!  To this day I still question everything and think of him.  I’ve told this story plenty of times over the years.

I joined the Navy in 1982 to be a SeaBee Illustrator Draftsman because of him.  I had to wait 11 months, which was unacceptable!  I did the next best thing a fellow Italian could do.  I became a Chef!

He was a mans man, and raised us to be better gentlemen!  He gave all of himself and I’m forever grateful!

I wish I could have shot the bull with him before finding this out today!  Heaven got a great liver of life!

God Bless You Mr. B

Rest in peace Mr B. You had a profound and deep effect on my life. You were one of my lifetime heroes. 

Mr. Bonnano was my rock star teacher.. I was not artistic, but treated me like I was the best artist around.. I was a math person,  so when I painted, I would paint math shapes.. he called me New Milford's Picasso.. he was the most positive, wonderful teacher, and even 55 years later,  I am mourning his loss..

I’m sorry to hear of the passing of Mr Bonanno.  I was a student in his engineering classes at NMHS.   His class was always the highlight of my scholastic days.  His teachings and  wisdom lead me to where I am today.   I am still in the engineering world ....always remembering  things he said.  He was always more than a teacher.  He would talk football with me because he knew he could help me with my game ....he took me outside during class time to give me some tips on throwing the shot put before a big county track meet.   When my mother passed away during my senior year, he sat a talked with me and helped me get through a really tough time in my life.   He was always there for us(students) whenever we needed.  He was so much more than just a high school teacher.  I have always wondered how or where he was since I left NMHS in 1985.  You meet people in your life who will make a mark on you...lead you down a path to your next journey.  Mr B was that mark for me.   I’m not sure where I would have ended up without his guidance. Thank you Mr Bonanno.     
My best to his family during this time 
Arthur Byrd

He was a tuff but fair teacher. Scared the bejesus outta me slamming the t square or the broomstick! And loved to nail you with pink Pearl erasers if you weren't paying attention LOL. And another thought he'd eat orange peels like they tasted like candy. Another memory was Mr. Grand got in my face in the hallway stating DO YOU KNOW WHAT YOU NEED? No WHAT!? A KNUCKLE SANDWICH!! As HE held his fist in front of my face.. I threw my book's down on the ground and SAID GO AHEAD I'LL GIVE YOU THE FIRST PUNCH!! He did nothing. I SAID. THAT'S WHAT I THOUGHT!!   PICKED up my book's and punched a locker putting a nice dent in it. Meanwhile Mr B was standing there in front of his door with his arm's folded. Observing the situation. Didn't say a word as I walked by.. LOL he just wanted to see me fight I guess. Well I'll miss you BIG GUY.. Say hello to my DAD you guy's can talk about fighting in Golden gloves. You actually might have fought each other back then..... Hey can someone put a Pink Pearl eraser with him. Thanks Rest in Peace

So sorry to read of his passing. Praying for his family and all who knew him. Wonderful teacher at NMHS and wonderful man. Glad to have known him.

I first met Mr. Bonanno in the 8th grade when I took my first drafting class. He was like no teacher at New Milford High School.  He was a gritty, old school hard guy who wasn't putting up with any nonsense. At first we all just thought he was a crazy old guy who loved to tell tall tales but I wanted to be an architect so I figured I'd put up with it.  

As time went by, I realized that not only were those tales not tall, but this guy was the real deal. He had done so much with his life that it seemed incredible at first but quickly became impressive. 

I learned a lot from Mr. Bonnano - not just drafting - but life. He taught me the basics of judo (which came in handy on more than one occasion). He taught me about the Army, which I subsequently joined a few years later. He taught me a lot about health and nutrition. He also taught me morality and fortitude.  

When I ran out of drafting classes to take (NMHS only had four and I took my first in the 8th grade), I didn't want to not have him as a teacher my senior year. So he petitioned the school to CREATE a new class just for me. It was the first computer assisted drawing class the school had ever seen. And we learned it together. I used the computer and taught him how it worked. He taught me more advanced architecture and engineering practices than the other kids. I spent countless hours after school - voluntarily - to push my project forward and he never told me he couldn't stay late. 

I didn't see him many times after I graduated, mostly because I was caught up in my own stuff with college, graduate school and work. I still think about him regularly. He was easily the most influential teacher in my academic career and one of the most influential people in my life. 

I regret not keeping in touch with him. I always thought I had time to do it but there was always something more important that came up.  I am so saddened to hear of his passing. He was a quality human being that put his heart into everything he did

So many memories from teenage years at NMHS through having coffee at Panera in his senior years. Always a twinkle in his eye, a devilish comment and then great life advice . Rest well Mr. Bonanno, a life well lived with honesty and passion . You will be remembered .

"Give sorrow words; the grief that does not speak knits up the o'er wrought heart and bids it break." - Shakespeare
How befitting to share this quote, for this man introduced me to:
"All the world's a stage..."  and how his entrance into my life, and helping educate my desires, will be forever etched in my memory.   Even though he makes his exit, he enters upon anew - "...that which dreams are made on..." - Prospero, THE TEMPEST.
God Bless You, and yours, and know that I am eternally grateful with much love,
Dolorita Noonan-Robinson
PS  I will always remember your saying"Get a job," before every performance, and know that was good!

Matt Bonano would regularly offer “life advice” during his Industrial Engineering course at the NMHS.  “Put mayonnaise in your hair while you mow the lawn.  It is a more natural way to give your hair nutrients than chemical conditioners and you can also get some chores done!”  “Or if you really want to become fit commit to doing Isometric Exercise techniques.  It gives you more strength and makes your joints last longer!”

Somewhere in between these type of mind nuggets he inspired kids to pursue careers in Architecture, Engineering and Industrial Design.  I just passed my 20th year as a licensed Architect. I often reflect back on what drew me to a profession that has fit me like a glove for so long.  Mr Bonanno’s class memories instantly flash back as a source that gave me direction when I had no rudder.

A slam of the metal T-square on the desk was the call to order when kids pushed the limits of class orderliness.  Then he would give his lesson and make the rounds to each student’s desk to patiently oversee the evolution of their technical drawings.  There are generations of NMHS graduates that live off the fruit of the seeds first set under his instruction. 

However, I still struggle with eating mayonnaise to this day!


I was fortunate to have been in 2 shows by Mr Bonnano. He was always open to getting ideas from the cast on how to make a show work better and always got the best out of us.  I have volumes of stories about this great man but for now may he rest in peace. Much love & sympathies to the Bonnano family. He was one of a kind.

I still remember when we had a show in h.s. and he was quite the makeup artist and it was my turn for mascara - "Look up! Look down! Sit there and don't  blink!" A man for all seasons.

Honored to have had Matt as a Teacher, Play Director and Former Colleague . My deepest condolences to the Bonnano Family

Matt Bonanno was a creative, committed and caring colleague at New Milford High School who helped many students in his Industrial Arts classes.  He obviously loved his wife, Judy, passionately as well as his son Troy.   He was a good person who served as a positive role model for many.  He will be missed.

OBITUARY

Matthew I. Bonanno

February 14, 1929 – November 4, 2019

Becker Funeral Home

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