SEAN ADAM MATAR

Sean Adam Matar, 32, passed away unexpectedly on July 14, due to complications from scuba diving. He had just returned home to Springfield from an extended scuba diving trip to Mexico to earn more certifications, and while there, enjoyed taking visiting tourists on multiple scuba diving excursions.
He was born on Aug. 30, 1990, to Riad and Janet (Melton) Matar in Springfield.
He graduated from Kickapoo High School in Springfield, completed an Associates Degree from Ozarks Technical Community College, Springfield, and then went onto Missouri State University to continue his studies in marine biology.
He was the owner of Riad’s Restaurant, then was a substitute teacher for the Springfield Public Schools. He was considering full-time employment as a paraprofessional for the school system because he was especially well-liked and good with children with special needs.
He very much enjoyed scuba diving and was a master dive instructor. He also worked as a scuba diver for the Wonders of Wildlife Museum in Springfield. He was active with DiVentures and Divers Oasis.
In addition to scuba diving, Sean enjoyed piloting airplanes.
He continued his giving and loving spirit at the end of his life by saving the lives of many others by being an organ donor. He is also limiting his footprint and giving back to the earth by being laid to rest in a green burial.
He is survived by his parents, Riad and Janet; girlfriend, Rachel Koonce; brother, Ryan (Christy) Matar; brother, Alex (Staryln) Matar; sons: Kamrynn Matar and Johnathan Matar; nephew, Christian Matar; and countless aunts, uncles, and friends.
A celebration of life memorial service will be announced at a later date for family and friends.
He will be laid to rest in a private family service on Monday, July 17, at Evergreen Cemetery, Republic.
Memorial donations to help the family with funeral expenses and raise his sons may be made through Walnut Lawn Funeral Home.
Care and arrangements have been entrusted to Walnut Lawn Funeral Home, Ltd. – DeGraffenreid-Wood-Crematory, Springfield.