When you talk about the heart of a town like Millbury or Grafton, you aren't usually talking about politicians or grand architecture. You're talking about the people who show up every single day. Matthew Ohman Millbury MA is a name that carries a lot of weight for anyone who lived in the area or worked alongside him. It's a name associated with a specific kind of grit—the kind that comes from a life spent on the basketball court, the ice rink, and the front lines of public service.
Honestly, finding a local figure who commanded as much quiet respect as Matt did is rare. He wasn't someone who looked for the spotlight. He was a guy who cared about his community, his family, and, notably, the animals he looked after for over a decade.
A Career Defined by Compassion
For twelve years, Matthew Ohman served as the Animal Control Officer for the Worcester Police Department. Think about that for a second. Twelve years in a role that is frequently misunderstood and often thankless. It’s a job that requires a very specific blend of toughness and empathy. You're dealing with stray animals, distressed owners, and the occasional dangerous situation, all while keeping a level head.
Matt followed in his grandfather’s footsteps by joining the department. That’s a heavy legacy to carry, but he did it with a kind of natural grace. People who interacted with him in a professional capacity often noted his kindness. He didn't just see it as a job; he saw it as a way to maintain the dignity of the city he served. It wasn't about catching dogs; it was about public safety and animal welfare, two things he took incredibly seriously.
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The Athlete and the Competitor
If you knew Matt outside of his uniform, you knew he lived for the game. Any game. He was a Grafton High School standout, specifically on the hockey team where he served as captain and earned the MVP title twice. That’s not just talent; that’s leadership. You don’t get voted captain twice by being a passive player. He carried that energy into his time at Quinsigamond Community College, where he pitched for the baseball team.
But his love for sports didn't end with graduation.
He was the guy you'd find on the golf course or the basketball court on his days off. He was a fixture in the EMC/Dell golf league at Highfields. He even notched a hole-in-one on hole two—a feat most golfers chase for a lifetime and never achieve. He died doing exactly what he loved: winning a competitive basketball game with his family.
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It’s poetic in a way, though incredibly tragic.
He lived at a high frequency. Whether it was a casual round of golf with his father, Thomas, or a high-stakes local game, Matt didn't know how to give anything less than 100%. He had this "Ohman smile" that people still talk about—a mix of playfulness and genuine warmth that could diffuse a tense situation on the court or in the field.
Building a Life in Millbury
In 2013, Matt married Krystina Bombard, and they eventually settled in Millbury. For those who aren't from Central Massachusetts, Millbury is the kind of place where your neighbors actually know your name. It was the perfect backdrop for the life he and Krystina built with their two children, Landon and Riley.
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Being a "girl dad" and a "boy dad" was arguably his most important role. While his professional life was about service, his personal life was about devotion. Friends like Brett, Dave, and Michael—lifelong companions—remember him as the anchor of their group. He was the guy who showed up. He was the guy who made sure everyone was okay.
Why His Story Resonates
It’s easy to get caught up in global news, but the story of Matthew Ohman reminds us that the health of a community depends on individuals who take their local roles seriously.
- He bridged the gap between law enforcement and animal advocacy.
- He mentored younger athletes simply by leading by example.
- He showed that you can be fiercely competitive and incredibly kind at the same time.
There’s a lot of noise online about what makes a "successful" life. Matt’s life suggests that success is measured in the strength of your family bonds and the number of people who smile when they hear your name.
Actionable Insights and Community Support
If you’re looking to honor the spirit of someone like Matthew Ohman, there are several ways to engage with the local Millbury and Worcester communities that mirror his passions:
- Support Local Animal Shelters: Since Matt spent over a decade as an Animal Control Officer, donating to the Worcester Animal Rescue League or similar organizations is a direct way to honor his professional legacy.
- Engage in Local Youth Sports: Matt was a product of local athletic programs. Volunteering as a coach or supporting boosters at Grafton or Millbury high schools helps keep that competitive spirit alive for the next generation.
- Prioritize Wellness and Community: Matt's sudden passing at age 41 is a stark reminder to cherish the time spent with family. Make it a point to organize that family game or golf outing you've been putting off.
- Respect Public Servants: Next time you see an Animal Control Officer or a local police officer, remember the human behind the badge. They are often residents of your town, like Matt, working to keep things running smoothly.
Matthew Ohman’s life was cut short, but the footprint he left in Millbury and the surrounding towns is permanent. He wasn't just a name on a payroll; he was a husband, a father, an athlete, and a protector of those who couldn't protect themselves.