UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Matthew Fultz, police dispatcher at Penn State for more than 30 years, died unexpectedly on Aug. 14. He was 57.
Fultz joined University Police and Public Safety (UPPS) in 1987, serving as a police dispatcher for more than three decades. In this role, he answered urgent and emergency calls from those in need at University Park and dispatched the appropriate medical, police and fire resources to aid the callers.
“Matt became part of the fabric of our department while serving countless members of the Penn State community when they needed help. Over the years, he became a close friend and colleague to many and we are devastated by this sudden loss,” said Charlie Noffsinger, assistant vice president of UPPS.
Fultz, a dedicated public servant, was also an active member of the Logan Fire Company for more than 25 years, where he served in multiple leadership roles.
Born on Aug. 13, 1963, in Lewistown, he was the son of Russell J. “Jay” and Roberta J. (Rheam) Fultz of Bellefonte. He is also survived by his wife of 10 years, Lisa M. Packer and one brother, Mark E. Fultz and his fiancé, Colleen DeFrees, of Reading.
Fultz graduated from Bellefonte Area High School in 1982 and Williamsport Community College in 1986 where he earned an associate degree in computer science.
Visitation will be 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 18 at the New Hope United Methodist Church, 1089 E. College Ave, Bellefonte. Funeral services will be private at the Kader-Neff Funeral Home in Howard with Pastor Bob Dornon officiating. Following CDC recommendations, social distancing is encouraged, and face coverings will be required at all services.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to one of Fultz’s favorite charities: PAWS, 1401 Trout Road, State College, PA, 16801; Pets Come First, 2451 General Potter Hwy, Centre Hall, PA 16828; or Centre Wildlife Care, 148 Custred Ln, Port Matilda, PA 16870.