ALBERT EDWARD MATTHEWS Jr.

ALBERT (AL) EDWARD MATTHEWS JR. Passed away on January 8, 2017 at the age of 81. Loving husband of Linda Matthews (née Gardiner) for more than 27 years, devoted father of Tim, Debbie, Andrea and Brenda and grandfather of 11 amazing grandchildren. Dear brother of Wynn Harding of Brantford, Ontario and Pam McPherson (Tom) of Aurora, Ontario. Beloved brother-in-law of Joanne and Bob Ross of Burlington, Ontario, Marian and Jim Williamson of Ottawa, Ontario and Chuck Lewis of Wheaton, Illinois. Extraordinarily supportive uncle for many much-loved nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by Di Matthews (née Hallamore), his beloved wife of 29 years. Al was born in Woodstock, Ontario, grew up in Sarnia, graduated from St. Andrew's College (SAC) in Aurora and obtained his business/ engineering degrees from the University of Toronto and the London School of Economics. His 35-year career at the Ford Motor Company included assignments in Canada, the U.S. and England, including serving for more than 10 years as Chief Financial Officer of Ford of Canada. Al will be remembered for his incredible loyalty to lifelong friends, his unwavering commitment to his family, his strong principles and his deep faith. He served on many parochial church councils and vestries and served for many years on the Executive Committee of Geneva Park YMCA and provided welcome advice and counsel as a member of many other boards. Services will be held on Saturday, January 14th at 2 p.m. at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, 1115 Center Road, Venice, Florida. A celebration of life will also be held in the summer in the Toronto area. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the YMCA Simcoe/Muskoka for the Geneva Park YMCA at secure.ymcaofsimcoemuskoka.ca in honour of Al Matthews or to a charity of your choice.