WILMINGTON, Del. – U.S. Senator Chris Coons issued the following statement on the passing of Matt Haley while on a humanitarian expedition through India and Nepal.
“Matt Haley was one of the most remarkable people I’ve ever met. He was so much more than a talented chef and celebrated restaurateur — he was such a good man. He was a great Delawarean. He was a friend. His death is heartbreaking.
“Matt got a second chance at life and vowed to seize it. He was a reminder to all of us that we should embrace life and live it fully and graciously and gratefully every single day. His spirit, enthusiasm, and creativity were infectious. He endlessly sought and found opportunities to make a difference in people’s lives. He didn’t seek attention for his good works, but he certainly deserved it.
“The weekend before Matt left for India, I met a woman in Dover – a recovering addict who couldn’t find work because she couldn’t find anyone willing to take a chance on her and to believe in her. I told her Matt’s story and the incredible life he’d made after the mistakes of his youth. I called Matt the next day and he leapt at the opportunity to help her. He took her number and promised to call her right away because he was getting on a plane the next morning. He told me about the trip and the risks involved. He couldn’t wait to see his dear friends in Nepal, and he was excited to fulfill a promise he had made to a friend in the region. Matt was going there on a mission to bring what his heart made possible. I told him how proud I was to know him.
“I can’t believe he’s gone and I’m so grateful that the last thing we got to do together was to try to help someone. That was Matt. That’s what he did. I’m going to miss his friendship, generosity, and compassion, and his passionate commitment to our community. My heart aches for his family and friends.”