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Robert Matthews Obituary
Bob was born October 19, 1950, in Jonesboro, Arkansas, the son of Louise Price Matthews and James Coy Matthews. Bob attended Jonesboro schools and graduated from Jonesboro High School in 1968. He earned a BS in Biology from Arkansas State University, and a DDS from the University of Memphis Dental School. For 10 years he practiced as a dentist with the US Army, in North Carolina, Arizona, and Alaska. After the Army, he earned an advanced degree in Periodontics from the VA Hospital dental center in Indianapolis, Indiana. Upon completion of this degree, he practiced Periodontics in the Anchorage area, and for the last decade had a practice on Arlon Street.
Bob was a universally liked and appreciated "good guy", who loved good conversation, good friends, and good experiences. He was an excellent musician, particularly on guitar, and he passed this love of music on to his son Michael. He was an avid reader of books and scientific or astronomical magazines. He was a lover of animals, especially numerous dogs he and Sandi had over the years. He deeply appreciated the outdoors and nature, and was an excellent amateur photographer and gourmet cook. He loved hiking, bicycling, and climbing, especially Flat Top Mountain which he often did with his son Michael, friend Warren Urda, and numerous others who shared his love for the outdoors. He was a skilled woodworker and enjoyed crafting intricate wooden objects such as little rocking chairs for nephews or clock housings from native woods. Bob was also a tinkerer and dedicated repair man, and would always risk damage from his own carpentry, plumbing, or electrical efforts before he would call a professional. Usually it worked out pretty well.
Bob had a huge number of friends both in Alaska and in his home state of Arkansas. At various times in his life, he worked on an anthropological dig, as a guide in a Blanchard Caverns in Arkansas, and as a laborer on an Indiana mint farm, making in all these experiences friendships that lasted for his lifetime. He will be greatly missed by his family and his many friends with whom he shared hikes, campfires, and other outdoor adventures.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Sandi and their son, Michael Todd Matthews of Anchorage; brother, Bill Matthews, wife Edie and children, Andy and Becky of Norman, Oklahoma; nephew Scott Matthews, wife Melissa and baby Finley of San Francisco; niece Amy Matthews Duncan, her husband Mark, and their boys, Jack and Cade.
A celebration of Bob's life will be held 2:00 p.m. Sunday, March 30 at the Anchorage Funeral Home, 1800 Dare Ave. in Anchorage
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Friends of Pets, PO Box 240981 Anchorage, AK 99542 or Alaska Public Media at www.alaskapublic.org.
Arrangements were made by Anchorage Funeral Home. Please visit Bob's obituary and online guestbook at www.AlaskanFuneral.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Matthews
Sponsored by The Matthews Family.
Brenda Ball Tirrell
March 22, 2021
Bob will always remain in my heart and mind as someone who shared happy times with me. He was loving and kind and talented and giving and I will never forget him. He should never have died. Brenda Ball Tirrell
William Gillette
March 22, 2020
As Bob's mentor during his periodontics residency in Indianapolis, Bob stood out in his dedication and maturity. He knew what he wanted to do professionally and kept his eye on the ball. We remember him well and regret that he had to depart this life too early.
Brenda Ball Tirrell
March 22, 2020
I still miss him. Just thinking of Bob brings me joy of all our times singing as he played the guitar. I wont let sadness creep in because he would not wont that. He was a Renaissance man.
March 27, 2019
Five Years. It can't be. I miss you.
March 22, 2019
On this the anniversary of Bob's death, it is a joy to remember him once again. The memory of singing songs, laughing, talking politics and living life in general -that is all part of what it was to be with Bob. When the tornado blew their home to bits I gave his mom a set of dishes and when I spoke with Bob in Alaska years later, I was so thrilled to hear him say he had that set of dishes. Connections were always important to me. Bob and I were connected in many ways. I still miss him. Tonight I am going to dinner with his cousin. We shall give a toast to him.
Brenda Ball Tirrell
Hot Spirngs Village, Arkansas
Bill Hall
May 17, 2018
This has been a sad day for me to learn about the passing of my dear friend, Bob. Bob and I were stationed together back at Fort Richardson around 89. One year we traveled together to Walter Reed for a continuing education coarse. I ended up playing a great practical joke on Bob, but never admitted to him that I was one behind the joke. One day after we returned to Fort Rich, we were in the break room playing ping pong, when Bob looked at me and asked me if I knew anything about the pictures. I denied everything. Bob got a smile on his face, and I then broke out laughing so hard I couldn't stop. He then knew that I was behind the joke. Sandi, I will always keep you and your son in my prayers. If there is anything I can help you all with please contact me at "[email protected]" God Bless.
J. R.
May 17, 2016
I come to this site on occasion when I am missing you. How could you be gone? What I wouldn't give to see your smiling face.
You may be gone but not ever will you be forgotten. My eyes are leaking, even now.
J R
Terry Reed
January 8, 2015
I was shocked to read of Dr. Matthews passing, almost a year ago. He and his staff were just wonderful to me. I loved hearing his charming accent; he always made me feel so safe. My prayers and thoughts go out to his family. He will be greatly missed.
Michael Dinneen
August 30, 2014
Very sad news to hear of Dr Matthews passing. A true gentleman, his good spirit evident in his approach with his patients and in his staff.
Erin Smulick
June 7, 2014
Heartbroken to hear of the loss of Dr Matthews. Him and his staff took great care of me over the last couple years and I am grateful for that. I always looked forward to seeing them. What a nice, caring, smart man he was. He will be missed.
My thoughts and prayers to his family.
Rolf & Mary Luetcke
May 31, 2014
Sincerest condolences all who knew and loved Bob he was a friend of my husband and will be missed very much by the two of us. We shared time with Bob and Todd and those memories will be cherished.
May 20, 2014
I'm devastated to hear of Bob's untimely death. I studied for my Periodontics degree in Indianapolis together with Bob. We had lots of good laughs.
Sincere condolences to all his family,
Hans John
Dusseldorf, Germany
Pastor Rick Benjamin
May 19, 2014
I am so sad to hear about the passing of Dr. Matthews. I was one of his patients. He was always gentle and careful to explain everything. My heart goes out to his family and colleagues. God bless.
Peggy Fowler
May 12, 2014
So sorry to hear of his passing. I actually looked forward to seeing him for my annual perio appointment.
Irene Jones
May 6, 2014
I was so saddened to hear about Dr.Matthews. I was always looking forward to my annual check-ups. I had been his patient for close to 17 years. He was such a sweet and kind person. He would always, along with his staff made me feel comfortable and cared for. I am going to miss him so much. My sincere condolences to Dr. Mattthews family and his loved ones
The trio, Jonesboro '68
PETER Kluge
April 11, 2014
So sorry to have missed seeing Bob all these years. I guess time has flown by more quickly than I thought it would. He will always be pickin' and grinnin' and singing on a fine summers day in Jonesboro.
dona holliman
April 10, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss.my condolences to the family and his staff
I always enjoyed my dental appointments. We always had something
to talk about.
I will miss Dr. Matthews very much He was a wonderful man.
Bob Devereaaux
April 10, 2014
As a patient of Dr. Matthews for the past 4 years, I always looked forward to my annual check-up. What a delightful person he was. My sincere condolences to Dr. Matthews family and his loved ones.
Carol McCamant
April 9, 2014
I am so sorry to hear of this. he along with his staff always so good to me. He made me feel so calm and cared for. What a sad sad loss
April 2, 2014
One Sunday afternoon, when Bob was working for the Ozark National Forest Service @ Blanchard Cave and living in the little cabin in the middle of nowhere, he called us on the phone. "Get out your Heavenly Highway Hymnal" he said and turn to page 126 (or such). There's a tune I think you and Robert should learn." So we did and he sang it over the phone. To this day, we sing that song and always think of Bob. We'll now sing it in his honor. Mary Gillihan Mtn. View, AR
Cathy Spasoff
April 2, 2014
It's been many years since I've seen Bob. I worked with him at Ft. Huachuca when he was a young Captain. He always had a heart of gold. I know he will be missed. My condolences to you and your family.
Judy Doyle
April 2, 2014
My condolences to Sandi and Mike.
I worked in Periodontics at the IU Dental School when Bob was our VA resident. I always enjoyed seeing Bob when he came to IUSD to attend classes with his classmates. He was always very friendly and professional and I enjoyed talking with him on the phone after he moved to Alaska. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Becky Newon
April 1, 2014
It was indeed a privilege and a pleasure to have had the opportunity to work with this fine man. He taught me so much and he was kind, charming and always a joy to be around. There will be a void in many lives without him. I am grateful I was given the opportunity to have known him. Rest in peace Bob.
Bob visiting us in Hawaii
Christopher & Doris Erickson
April 1, 2014
Bob, we sure will miss you.
Joyce Haugstad
March 31, 2014
Dr. Matthews was a wonderful boss and friend..I couldn't imagine working for anyone better than him. He was a man of many talents ranging from his occupation to musician, wood worker, gardner and more. My life is richer having been touched by his. My condolences to Sandi, Michael & Bill and family. He will forever be missed.
Mike and Jan Kiech
March 31, 2014
Bob brought me to the Tatum home, 'Wildflower', while I was still in college (1972/3?). We spent the night in some shelter not far from the home. Music at the house was awesome. Late that evening we walked the center lines on the unlit highway to the bunkhouse, admiring the stars. Bob had an interest and working knowledge of the constellations, pointing out Orion's Belt. Spectacular sky and company had met for a canoe trip down the 'Little Piney Creek', and I was getting all kinds of 'extras'. A school buddy, 'Lew', had tagged along at the last minute, so we had a three man canoe. With a beautiful day, we launched our canoe to await our companions, and glided toward the opposite bank. Lew rose unpredictably, and the 'center of gravity' rose with Lou, converting our boat into an 'inverted pendulum'. Bill lamented the result before the tip was to occur. A single, pitiful cry, "Lew!". No one else had time to make a sound.
As the canoe spun over, I remember 'processing' Bill's plea, grasping both sides of the canoe while being spun under water. I was already laughing, surprised that the water was of no apparent importance now. I 'swan' out from under the canoe to the continuing laughter with all. That spectacular trip exemplified many life experiences that reached farther than otherwise possible, due to friendships, and Bob.
Sandi, Michael, Bill, our sincerest condolences over your loss.
M.A. Wheeler
March 31, 2014
Bob was a delightful human being and I always looked forward to talking to him all those years ago when he was in college. I've often thought of him, hoping he was healthy and happy. I'm very sorry to hear of his passing but am glad to know he had a family he cherished. With deepest sympathy,
Brenda Ball Tirrell
March 31, 2014
To Bob's wife and son, I would request that you contact me if possible, as I have a family heirloom I would love to give to Michael.
Sincerely,
Brenda Ball Tirrell
[email protected]
lil and ron jones
March 30, 2014
We met dr. matthews,only once,for a consultation. He was interestingly honest and mindful. We liked him immediately. Our condolences.
March 30, 2014
I met Bob in the seventh grade. We all went to different grade schools but were all sent to Annie Camp Junior High. I considered him a friend for the rest of his life. He introduced me to some of the most interesting people I have ever met. He arranged for me to work with him one summer at Blanchard Springs Caverns where he seemed to know everybody. When he was in dental school in Memphis he would often come to our house in Little Rock to escape for a weekend. He was arriving for one such visit when my wife went into labor. We handed him a key to house and left as he was walking in. He ragged us to the end about how rude we were that weekend. He hosted us in Arizona where we met his usual group of "interesting" friends. Even in the Army he drifted toward people you were not likely to meet anywhere else. One of those was the namesake for his son, Michael. When I asked Bob why he didn't name his son after me, he said Michael Todd had more money. Then he laughed that infectious laugh. I saw him last at his mother's house in Jonesboro the first Mother's Day after Michael was born. We kept in touch by phone. The last time I talked to him he was concerned about the health of another friend. Robert Samuel Matthews, like his brother, Bill and his parents, was a "one of a kind". It will be a while before my family will get over this.
Thanks Bob for being a great friend. I am sorry we were rude to you the night our son was born.
Don Lawson, Debbie Lawson and our son Ben Lawson
Carl Bartenstein
March 29, 2014
My condolences to Sandi, Mike, and everyone else in the family. Bob took a genuine interest in the lives of his son's friends, and even loaned me a book on the great Western minds when I told him I was majoring in Philosophy. The basement of the Matthews home is often a place of band practices and jamming, and Bob seemed to make it a point to come down and tell us that we sounded good. Thank you, Bob, for bringing one of my best friends into this world.
William Gillette
March 29, 2014
As the Director of Bob's residency program in Indianapolis, I recall his two years here with pleasure. He was a self starter and always carried his share of the load. We were sorry to see him leave, but happy that he and Sandi were going to live in Alaska, a place that they both dearly loved and just couldn't wait to reach.
Bob's Sunday School class at First Methodist Church, Jonesboro. Bob is standing in back and Claudia Cathcart Shannon, Tommie Johnson Holmes in fronts
Susan Penix Fitzsimmons
March 29, 2014
Jeanne Dobbs
March 29, 2014
My condolences to Bill, Sandi,and the rest of Bob's family in his passing. I graduated from JHS with Bill in 1963 but remember Bob from when the Matthews family lived across the street from South Elementary School in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Life sounds like it's been good to Bob over the years, and I know he will be missed by all those who knew and loved him.
Jeanne Ratliff Dobbs
Cleveland, Georgia
Mick Rosenberg
March 29, 2014
I was stunned to read of Bob's passing moments ago. Bob was the consummate dental professional: Impeccable character, keen intellect, engaging personality, gifted hands. A true Southern gentleman, he has left a gaping hole in the lives of those who knew him and he will always be sorely missed. My sincerest condolences to his beloved and loving family.
Andrew Gillis PharmD
March 29, 2014
Doc, the whole crew was stunned and saddened to hear the news. You always had a smile and kind word for me to support me through undergrad and then through pharmacy school--even when that support came after my lamentations of organic or biochemistry with a wink and a "better you than me!" Always a great guy. You will be missed, Doc!
R. Steve Gunson
March 28, 2014
Bob, you've been the object of my thoughts these last several days. I keep reflecting on our visits and the few times we shared a meal together. I enjoyed getting to know you and I will never forget your abundance of kindness and genuine personality. I'm happy to have known you and will forever remember you and that southern accent of yours. I'll miss you my friend.
Susan Penix Fitzsimmons
March 28, 2014
The light in me salutes the Light of Robert Samuel Matthews. Namaste
Bob summer 1959, holding Minnie-Me in his hand.
Susan Penix Fitzsimmons
March 28, 2014
Bob in front of Susan Blair's house next door.
Susan Penix Fitzsimmons
March 28, 2014
Bob spreads his wings over Nancy Spruill, Julie Christopher, and Jayne Penix Davis while Clif Christopher watches from the back.
Susan Penix Fitzsimmons
March 28, 2014
Susan Penix Fitzsimmons
March 28, 2014
Sandi, Mike, and Bill,
I am so sorry that we have all lost Bob. And I am thankful and honored to have been able to spend time with him. He had a great influence on me in my formative years and we shared his love of life and family. This world is definitely a better place because of Bob. Your loss is felt by me and many others----deep in our hearts forever. You three were the lucky ones who knew him best.
March 28, 2014
Dear Dr. Matthews' family, friends and staff:
We have been patinets of Dr. Matthews since he took over Dr. Wolf's practice. A better periodontist and person, you could not find.
We are saddened and agree that the silence is deafening.
Our hearts go out to you.
Dan Hickey and Laurie Herman
AnnMarie Conley
March 28, 2014
Dear Mike and Sandi, My heart is sad for our loss. What an amazing person! Full of wit and information. I learned much from him. He could always make me laugh (Mike remember the chocolate easter bunny!). Mike I know he cherished you and your mom. Thanks for sharing him a little with us.
Theresa Swedo
March 28, 2014
Your son is a wonderful student and an excellent human being. Thank you for leaving this world such a fine man.
Margie Phillips
March 28, 2014
I have been going to Dr. Matthews for the past 13 years. Even when I wasn't scheduled to see him, he would come in to say hello and hear what was going on in my life. At one of my visits we discovered, as teens, we had both seen the Beatles on the east coast the same year. He shared his love of music, family and life. He was such an open and lovely man. He will be missed! My thoughts and prayers to his family and all those close that knew and loved him!
Carl Nelson
March 28, 2014
I considered Bob a friend from the first time I met him. He was funny, easy to talk to, and very down to earth. His talent for woodworking blew me away, and I am a longtime woodworker. As my wife said after losing a dear friend, the silence is deafening. Rest in peace Bob.
Mike Ledbetter
March 28, 2014
I knew Bob first through our DeMolays chapter, and worked with him briefly at Ramada Inn. Later, I was allowed (tolerated) to enjoy the music he and David Massey could produce on guitar and banjo. He was scary smart, and a lot of fun.
Brenda Ball Tirrell
March 28, 2014
Dear Sandi and Michael,
You do not know me, but Bob was a dear friend of mine. Actually, I knew him when he was in the womb. His mother's family and I go back many years. Bob was in college when I taught at ASU, and he and I enjoyed hours singing folk songs as he played the guitar.
It is hard for me to grasp the fact that he is gone. I was fortunate to speak with him when we were in Anchorage in 2003. So sad that I didn't get to visit with him in person on that trip and meet you two. He spoke highly of you.
All I can do is refer you to Khalil Gibran's words On Death from The Prophet. It is an eloquent piece.
My sincere condolences.
Brenda Ball Tirrell
Kim T. Conley, DDS
March 28, 2014
Dr. Matthews was our singular go-to expert on periodontics for more than a decade. The dentists, staff and patients of the Anchorage Neighborhood Health Center benefitted greatly from his wisdom, expertise and care over these many years. We were happy to see him in 2012 when he joined us to celebrate the opening of our new building. This is a huge loss for the Anchorage dental community as it is for his many friends and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Debbie Scudder
March 28, 2014
Dr. Matthews was a true southern gentleman. I am so grateful to work for him and share his constant compassion and caring for his patients. My condolences to his family and friends. He will dearly missed.
Tommie Holmes
March 28, 2014
Ive known Bob since we were 5 years old. We went to kindergarten together, church, and school all the way through graduation. Mrs. Matthews was always at the church too. I am so sorry about his death.
Joseph Hoffbeck
March 28, 2014
Doctor Matthews' kindness, dedication and experience provided me with a much happier and healthy life style. We will never forget. Thank You Doctor Matthews
Joe Hoffbeck
Fred Mooney
March 28, 2014
Bob & I attended school together in Jonesboro. Good guy who had a great sense of dry humor
John Coleman
March 28, 2014
Very sad news!
Ron Durham
March 28, 2014
I met Bob in passing as he and his brother Bill lived right down the street from me in the mid '50's. Bill you are in my prayers for the loss of your brother. He sounds like someone I wish I had met too.
Kim T. Conley, DDS
March 28, 2014
Dr. Matthews has been our singular go-to expert for periodontics for more than a decade. The dentists, staff and patients of the Anchorage Neighborhood Health Center benefitted immensely from his wisdom, expertise and care over these many years. We enjoyed visiting with him in 2012 when he came to celebrate the opening of our new facility. His passing is such a huge loss for the Anchorage dental community, as it is for his many friends and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Mike Mark
March 28, 2014
Bob was such a kind and caring person. I consider myself fortunate to have known him. My heartfelt condolences to his family. I will miss you my friend.
Wanda L Shade
March 28, 2014
Dr M looked out for me and my kids...always helping me make decisions and offering advice. I lost not only the best Boss but a dear friend...life will never be the same...my heart is broken. He had the patience of a saint....hes in Heaven where he belongs.
Steve Norrell
March 28, 2014
Dr. Matthews was one of the "good guys". He will be missed, not only by a long time patient, but many others. Our prayers and thoughts are with his family.
Shelly Weigelt
March 28, 2014
Dr. Matthews was one of the kindest men I have had the pleasure to know. I couldn't thank him enough for all the knowledge he shared and the opportunities that were given. He was an wonderfully skilled surgeon. My condolences go out to his family. He will be sadly missed.
Jesse Hronkin DMD
March 28, 2014
We are very grateful to have had the opportunity to know and work with Dr. Matthews. His kindness and compassion in caring for his patients is truly an example to us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. He will truly be missed.
Lise Cater
March 28, 2014
I feel I should just a bit more here, as I have on Facebook. . still trying to grasp that Bob is really gone. . I hope he knows the outpouring of love and caring and people who are expressing their feelings for him.. although we weren't close friends growing up, I will cherish getting reacquainted with him through Facebook. .we shared many interests, our love of our beloved dogs, music, and outdoor activities. .I looked forward to his posts and pictures and certainly enjoyed all that he posted on my page about my crazy life . .he will be greatly missed and my heart goes out to all of you who knew him so well.
Susan Blair
March 28, 2014
I am so sorry to hear about Bob. I will always remember making him play croquet in the back yard when we were kids. Our families lived next door to each other on Rosemond St. His family was wonderful. His mother had fancy little tea parties with my much younger sister when she wasn't running us out of Mr. Matthews cotton shed. And we were just an irritant to Bill. Bob was a caring, compassionate, kind person even as a young teenager. You just knew he had goodness in his soul. All those memories I have of living next door to Bob and his family are among my best. RIP Bob.
Diane Snider
March 28, 2014
What a wonderful man you were to work for. A marvelous surgeon, wonderful boss and great friend. You could answer all my questions about work, birds and stars. Such talent! Bill and I are saddened by your passing. I expected to see you at Fred Meyers tonight where I often ran into you since my retirement. Miss you.
Bowlin, Massey and Robert, 1968, Jonesboro.
PETER KLUGE
March 27, 2014
Robert Bowlin, David Massey and Robert, 1968, Jonesboro, Arkansas.
Peter Kluge
March 27, 2014
Joellen Aimone
March 27, 2014
I was shocked and saddened to hear this news about Bob. I was a hygienist at ANMC and we worked closely together when he was there. I admired his caring for our patients, his perio skills and his compassion. What a kind and gentle soul. We bonded since we were about the same age and also had children the same age, so, of course, we discussed our children and parenting. I felt I knew you, Sandi and Michael, through our conversations. He was a very special person will truly be missed. My very deepest sympathies to you both.
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