After an 18-month fight with AML Leukemia, Matt Blasick passed away at home in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, on Oct. 11, with his beloved wife Melissa by his side. He was 53.

While his life sadly was cut short, it was one filled with great joy, love and friendship. And lots of music.

Matt, also affectionately called Bla, was born on September 17, 1968, in Lancaster, PA to George and Carol Blasick. His big brother, George, was bemused by his arrival home from the hospital, knowing that life as he knew it would never be the same.

Growing up in Mount Joy, Matt loved to go to the train tracks with his dad, who would hoist him onto his shoulders as they watched the trains rumble by. He enjoyed tamer activities with his mom and would fondly recall riding the bus with her to downtown Lancaster to shop. Matt also loved visiting relatives in Shamokin where he and George also spent time devouring pizza pies at James'.

Matt's childhood passions were baseball and music. He loved playing in Little League at Kunkle Field, and also playing under the lights as a member of Donegal High School's marching band.

After graduating from Donegal in 1987, he enrolled at Millersville University. Despite a college internship where he was a disc jockey at Starview 92.7 spinning his favorite records in the overnight hours, he graduated in 1991 with a communications degree. His work as a graphic designer and a user experience designer spanned a variety of industries, including dinnerware, farming supplies and health care. And anytime a friend needed a great-looking resume, wedding program or website, he graciously volunteered his talents.

Matt was beyond thrilled when he reconnected with his high school sweetheart, who had broken his heart after graduation. It took nearly two decades, but they finally got back together. Their 16th wedding anniversary was Oct. 8.

Throughout his life, Matt was most happy in the company of family and friends. Wednesday nights were for gathering at Shanks Tavern. Every August, he'd spearhead a long weekend camping trip near Knoebels with his best friends from high school and, over the years, their growing families. Matt loved playing his guitar by the campfire. He loved playing guitars anywhere. Music brought him joy.

In addition to Melissa, his mother and his brother, Matt is survived by many dear aunts, uncles, and cousins, six nieces and nephews through marriage, and one cantankerous cat.

Please celebrate Matt's life on Saturday, Oct. 30 at Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543. Visitation is from 2-4 p.m. and the service will start at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Halo House Foundation or to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society . In light of bone marrow shortages, the family also requests that you consider donating your bone marrow in memory of Matt. For more information please visit the American Cancer Society .