Sheldon Edward DeMattio, age 68, of New Philadelphia, passed away on September 30, 2026, at his home surrounded by his entire family following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on August 31, 1958, in Dover, Ohio, Sheldon was the son of the late Edward Herman DeMattio and Barbara Ann (Kron) DeMattio. He graduated from Indian Valley North High School with the Class of 1976.

On April 7, 1978, Sheldon married the former Tammy Sanders in Midvale, Ohio, beginning a devoted marriage that spanned decades. Shortly after their marriage, Sheldon proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Korea.

Following his military service, Sheldon dedicated his career to law enforcement, serving with the New Philadelphia Police Department for 34 years. Through hard work, integrity, and leadership, he rose through the ranks and retired as Captain in 2014, earning the respect of his fellow officers and the community he faithfully served.

Outside of his profession, Sheldon found his greatest passion on two wheels. In 1987, he became a member of the Blue Knights Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club, Ohio Chapter XVII, an organization that became an important part of his life. Over the years, he faithfully served the chapter in numerous leadership roles, including 31 years as President, four years as Vice President, and two years as Secretary. He also served at the international level as both Vice Chairman and Chairman, helping shape the organization while fostering lifelong friendships among fellow riders.

An avid motorcyclist, Sheldon logged more than 400,000 miles riding across 48 states—every state except Hawaii and Delaware—as well as through several countries. Whether traveling near or far, the open road brought him joy, adventure, and countless memories.

While motorcycles and public service were central to his life, nothing meant more to Sheldon than his family. He treasured every opportunity to cheer on his children and grandchildren, faithfully attending sporting events, dance recitals, concerts, and other family activities. His greatest pride was simply being present for those he loved.

Sheldon will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Tammy DeMattio; his children, Eric and Bette DeMattio of Alliance and Geoffrey and Danielle DeMattio of New Philadelphia; his cherished grandchildren, CJ, Alexis, Luciana, Giava, and Giovanni DeMattio, and Nicholas Marsili; his great-granddaughter, Lolani Morris; his siblings, Timothy (Bridget) DeMattio of California, Pamela (Steve) Clum of New Philadelphia, Tom DeMattio of Uhrichsville, and Andrea "Kay" DeMattio of Newark; his brother-in-law, Don (Teresa) Sanders; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, fellow officers, Blue Knights brothers and sisters, and many dear friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his parents-in-law, Eugene and Janice Sanders.

Memorial contributions may be made in Sheldon's memory to Blue Knights Int OH Chapter 17, c/o 1247 Tall Timber Rd NE, New Philadelphia, OH 44663 or to the Tuscarawas County Humane Society, 1432 Tall Timber Rd NE, New Phila.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation at the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory in New Philadelphia on Sunday, October 4, 2026 from 1 to 4 p.m.

A service celebrating Sheldon's life will be held on Monday, October 5, 2026 beginning at 11 a.m. in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home Chapel at New Philadelphia followed by The Carl C. Stoller Post #1445 rendering military honors. The service will conclude with a Final Call.

Following the service, everyone is invited to honor Sheldon in a way he would have loved—by hopping on their motorcycles and taking one final ride in his memory. The ride will conclude at the Geib Funeral Center in Dover, where family and friends are invited to share a luncheon and continue celebrating a life well lived.