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More than $8,200 had been raised as of Wednesday on a GoFundMe launched in Wingo's memory by Kim Cote. The money is being raised for medical and funeral bills.
"Matt made such a 'lasting impression' on the doctors and nurses that cared for him because of his strength, humor, perseverance and determination to get better for his family, Sue & the kids," the page says, "who meant the world to Matt."
Wingo of Kinnelon also was remembered for his love of coaching high school football.
He had emergency surgery from an aneurysm in his heart on Jan. 29. Matt was given a 20 percent chance, but survived. He eventually shed his breathing tube and began to regain feeling, showing incredible toughness and an unmatched stamina.
He was a fighter and even began to walk, starting to recover at Kessler Rehab. Throughout his many complications, doctors commented on what a miracle his last stage of life was. On Feb. 24, he collapsed and was rushed to Morristown due to a blood clot around his heart, a complication that arose from his surgery.
Wingo was born to Ronald and Linda Wingo on Sept. 30, 1978.
He graduated from Manasquan High School in 1997, where he was a well respected student and athlete. He graduated from Florida State University in 2003. Of all his activities after college, he valued his work as a high school football coach the most.
He was a passionate fan of the Florida State Seminoles, Philadelphia Eagles and NY Yankees. He was a very sweet, kindhearted man, who loved his family and friends. He enjoyed playing sports with his stepchildren and often was seen quietly observing from the side lines. He was always good for a coach pep talk before and after the games.
Wingo is survived by his longtime girlfriend, Sue Hahn, and her children, Robbie, Isabelle and Victoria; his father, Ronald Wingo; his sisters, Amanda Lebkes and Kimberly Almond.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Linda Wingo.
Initial calling hours were held Monday at the M. John Scanlan Funeral Home. A second memorial visitation will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 7 at the O'Brien Funeral Home, 2028 Route 35 at New Bedford Road in Wall.
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