JAMES G. MATTHEWS

James Gordon Matthews died on February 5, 2026, at the age of 85, in Toronto, surrounded by his family. He was predeceased by his parents, Dr. Ross Matthews and Barbara Matthews; and his sister, Ellen Matthews; as well as his first wife, Anne Rutherford. Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Jacqueline Le Saux; his daughters, Caroline Matthews Scott (Joseph Scott) and Joelle Matthews; and his two cherished grandsons, Ryley and Sidney Scott, of whom he was endlessly proud. Jim delighted in watching their athletic pursuits and was their biggest supporter, always impressed by their determination, skill, and spirit. He is also survived by his brothers Hugh Matthews (Mary) of Vancouver and John Matthews (Naty) of Ottawa and by Douglas Davis (Caroline's brother) of London England, and numerous nieces and nephews. Jim grew up in Peterborough and spent his high school years at Lakefield College School where he developed a love of nature and formed life long friendships. The school always held a special place in his heart. Following undergraduate studies at University of Toronto, he worked his way through Europe for a year and graduated from Osgoode Hall faculty of law in 1966. Jim was known for his strength of character, integrity, and strong moral compass. He built a respected career as a corporate lawyer at Aird & Berlis, where he practiced for many years and was admired by colleagues for his professionalism, fairness, and principled approach to the law. Jim served on the boards of Lakefield College Foundation and the Canadian Canoe Museum. Jim was a consummate storyteller. He loved regaling family and friends with stories of boyhood mischief and formidable teachers at Lakefield, his year in Europe, working at Jasper, arduous canoe trips in the north and summers at Lake Catchacoma. Known for his athleticism, Jim enjoyed playing tennis at the Badminton & Racquet Club and was a long-time skier at Devil's Glen. He completed three marathons in Toronto between ages 58 and 60. A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday June 16, 2026, at the Badminton & Racquet Club, 25 St. Clair Avenue W. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Lakefield College School (www.lcs.on.ca/support-lcs/donate-now) or the Canadian Canoe Museum (canoemuseum.ca/support/donate/in-memory).