Charles Mathews

CHARLES THOMAS MATHEWS
March 16, 1938 ˜ February 18, 2025

Charles Thomas “Tom” Mathews, a beloved husband, brother, stepfather, and grandfather, passed away in Vancouver, WA, on Feb. 18, 2025. Born on March 16, 1938, in Portland, OR, to Forrest Allen and Geneva Mathews, Tom was the eldest of seven children. He grew up in Portland’s Sellwood Neighborhood, where he developed a passion for classic boats along the Willamette River.

Tom had a particular fondness for wooden boats and an affinity for tugboats, speed boats, fishing boats, and yachts. Over the years, he restored numerous boats, nurturing his love for the water. He also adored classic cars, especially Ford Thunderbirds, which became a lifelong interest.

After high school in Portland, Tom served in the U.S. Navy and later worked as a crew member on National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) vessels in the South Pacific. Ultimately, he found his career with Fred Meyer, where he dedicated more than 30 years before retiring to pursue his passions.

Tom spent countless joyful hours driving his classic Thunderbirds and cruising local waterways in his personal watercrafts. Few things brought him more happiness than a day spent on the water or time cruising with the local T-bird Club. Tom didn’t just love classic automobiles and watercrafts, he was an artisan who did much of the restoration work himself, from the mechanical engine work to sewing upholstery. It was amazing to see him equally comfortable working on a motor as he was at a large sewing machine stitching seat covers.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Betti Alferd Mathews; stepsons Brett Alferd of Vancouver, WA; and Todd Alferd (and his wife, Jodi) of Vancouver, WA; stepdaughter Laura Alferd Hennum (and her husband, Eric) of Bixby, OK; and his grandsons Matthew, Riley, Rees, William, and Jack.

A celebration of Tom’s life is planned for later this spring. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that friends and loved ones consider donating to Friends of Hospice Southwest Washington, which supports several hospice organizations, including the Ray Hickey Hospice House in Vancouver, WA.
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