Obituary for
Lynn Matthews
Matthews, Islwyn (Lynn)
Died peacefully on April 26th, just past his 90th birthday.
He was raised in a grim steel mill town in Wales and grew up as part of the generation that lived through depression and war. Poor and from a broken home, nonetheless, his intelligence and grit set him on a different course.
He came to Canada with only a few dollars and more hopes than dreams. Our father built a family, friendships and career: a life that he shared with others. A faded tattoo on his forearm from the Royal Marines was a hint that underneath the bookish exterior lay an indomitable spirit.
He became the Chief Librarian at Kitchener Public Library – a most fitting role for someone who loved books and taught others this same passion. He came to the career later in life, after juggling a night-school undergrad degree and master’s degree – all the while helping raise a family.
Lynn is survived by his wife of 62 years, Barbara; two children, Siân and David; and four grandchildren; Maggie, Megan, Owen and Erin.
Lynn and Barbara loved to travel and experienced many exotic parts of the world – dugout canoes on the Amazon, rural railways in China, markets in Africa, and hiking all around the world. More than anywhere, they loved to visit their homeland of Wales.
Our father often said, “it doesn’t matter what you read – just as long as you read”. So, in his memory and for those wanting to pay tribute, there is no better way than picking up a book – any book – and immerse yourself in that world as he so loved to do.
Thank you to the staff at Freeport Hospital for their kindness and also to Kate Fewster, a great friend who has done so much. Private Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. For those wishing to make a donation in his memory please consider the Kitchener Public Library (cards available at the funeral home).
Visit www.henrywalser.com for Islwyn’s memorial.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Lynn Matthews 1929 2019..
Death notice for the town of: Kitchener, Province: Ontario