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It is with absolutely broken hearts that we share the news that Gary Grant Matthews, our patriarch and our foundation, was taken from our arms, suddenly and tragically on October 20, 2024.
Gary is predeceased by his father, Samuel Grant Matthews, and his mother, Helen Anne Elizabeth (Klages) to whom he was a devoted son.
He leaves behind his one true love and soulmate, Anne Rosemary (Featherstone); his daughter Andrea and her fiancé Sam of Woodstock; his son Derek and his wife Holly of Clifford, his five spirited, gifted and mischievious grandsons, Jayden, Kohen, Foxx, Maddix, and Tripp, who brought endless joy to Gary’s life.
Gary is also survived by his siblings: Jim Matthews (Barb) of Burlington, Ron Matthews (Deenie) of Clifford, Barbara Anne Matthews (Rex) of Listowel, and Heather Weber (Bevan) of Mildmay, who are shaken by this irreparable loss.
He will be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews, all of whom adored their Uncle Gary.
Lovingly remembered by his aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and our honorary oldest brother Brian Klages,(Buzz) who have blessed and filled his life.
Overlooking the land that harboured the story of his life and shadowed by the setting sun, this was a farmer content at day’s end. With his cows bedded, barn floor swept and field work complete, Gary could pause in that moment when the sun touches the earth and know peace. His was the task of “tending” home, a century of family history and memories under his guardianship; a role he devoted his entire life to fulfill. It was a life of sacrifice and toil, with decades spent working off the farm until dusk, only to return home and work until dawn. Gary was a kind and gentle farmer who was careful with all living things. Meticulously and attentively he navigated life with humour, stoicism and strength.
There was a feeling of certainty in his presence, he was what it meant to “be home.” Armed with a raucous laugh, a warm and loyal heart, and true selflessness he was known and loved in every corner of the world he journeyed. ….but for Gary his life’s meaning and his greatest joy was his beautiful wife Anne, who he adored with all his being, his cherished children and grandchildren who were his “life breath” and a source of immeasurable pride; and his beloved Fancy. Always keen to embrace the adventure of the day, Gary never did find a place on this earth more perfect or comforting than the home he insisted on returning to every night. His was a simple life of profound worth.
. …and as the gentle autumn breeze stirs the leaves that have fallen and makes the short fields of hay dance, it’s as if God is gently running his hands across Gary’s life work with tenderness and admiration. For in this humble man, the farmer and the eldest son, he found the careful and dutiful shepherd who never left his flock.
The family has chosen a private service on Saturday, October 26, 2024 at home on the family farm. Details for a future celebration of life will be announced by the Hardy-Lee Funeral Home, Harriston, as they become available.
To honour Gary’s love for the land, please consider planting a tree in his memory.
Sunday October 20th 2024
Death notice for the town of: Harriston, Province: Ontario
death notice Gary Matthews Sunday October 20th 2024
obituaries notice Gary Matthews Sunday October 20th 2024
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Gary Matthews Sunday October 20th 2024 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
