Thomas Russell Matthews

It is with great sadness that we say good-bye to Tom Matthews, at the age of 84, after a short battle with cancer. He passed surrounded by loved ones at his home on St. Joe's Island. Tom is reunited in eternal love with the love of his life, Barbara.

Loving father to Wayne (Maureen Pennington), Mark (in peace with Mom and Dad) and Russell.
Proud Grandfather to Alycia, Tommy, Rachelle (David), Brandon, Ben, Sarah, Shaunia, Julia, and Olivia. Cherished Great-Grandfather to Everleigh and Cereza.

Tom worked at Xerox for 22 years, 10 of which he was the Sales Manager for Northern Ontario, with Team 9. It was Xerox that brought he, Barbara and their three boys to Sault Ste. Marie, where they fell in love with the North and built a wonderful life. In 1989 he retired from Xerox to pursue a job with OLG, where he worked for the next 5 years.

He was a gifted storyteller and will be remembered for his ability to entertain people of all ages. Tom loved anything to do with nature and the outdoors. Family, friends and community were very important to him. He dedicated his time to charities and organizations such as Kiwanis, Sault Search and Rescue, Bon Soo, and 100 Guys Who Care.

Even at 84, Tom was strong, both physically and mentally. He never appeared his actual age and did not want to be looked at as elderly. Because of this, we all secretly assumed he would live forever.

Tom will be remembered by his many close friends, ex-coworkers and family. He will now live on forever in the memories we collectively have of him. Please know that Tom loved each of you very much and took great pleasure in every moment and memory you created with him.

A celebration of life will take place at a later time when family and friends can gather. Memorial donations may be made to ARCH (payable online or by cheque).