Ken Matthews

MATTHEWS, Ken (Kenneth Bruce James) August 1, 1931 ~ June 14, 2008 We are sad to announce the passing of Kenneth (Ken) Bruce Matthews at his home in 'College Plaza' (Windsor Park), in Edmonton, AB. Predeceased by parents Earnest (Ern) and Kathleen (Kay) Matthews and two older brothers Bill and Jack, our dad was truly the end of an era. Born in Winnipeg, MB, Ken grew up in Vancouver at a time when the Sylvia Hotel was billed as 'dine in the sky'. He eventually moved to his beloved Victoria and began his love affair with the Gulf Islands, most especially S. Pender Island and Gowland Point - which is where his final resting place will be. Ken cultivated his passion for music while working in the 50's at a funky record store in Victoria - the city where he met and married Michele (Marinker). Divorced in the 70's, Michele and Ken continued to be good friends until the very, very end. Working in Visual Merchandising most of his life (back in the day when a window display really was a window display) for the Bay & Eaton's in Vancouver, Victoria and finally Edmonton, he eventually retired in upper management. Ken was an artist extraordinaire - as a potter, a painter, a lithographer, a builder, a designer, a decorator, and as a miniaturist who built many a collectible. He was amazingly talented and incredibly humble about it. Those who he taught will remember the patient expert craftsman who always made you feel like you could create miracles just because he could. Colour was his forte. He is survived by: daughter Kim Matthews, Penticton, BC; son, Mark Matthews (Angelle), Calgary, AB; grandson Luke Darren, who he adored; his newest granddaughter Keltie Michelle, who he had not yet had the chance to meet but loved from afar; sister-in-law Pat Matthews (Jack), Victoria, BC; beloved 'Unc' to: David (Betty-Ann) Matthews, Victoria, BC; Kathy ('Denny') Funfer, Victoria, BC; and Susan (Dick) Scott, Duncan, BC; great-uncle to many wonderful grandnieces and nephews and one great-grand-niece. Ken was a cousin to many Burke's and Barton's, far too many to mention here. Also too many to mention are the many friends who enriched his life...you know who you are. The family would like to pay special mention to David MacKenzie who was always respectful of Dad and helped him along the way and to Lenore and Joan for their friendship. Also to the staff at Windsor Park Plaza.Cremation was held June 21st and Ken went to live on in the bounty that is forever. A celebration of his beautiful life will be held on Friday, June 27th, 2008 at Windsor Park Plaza, 8210-111st in the Seniors' Room from 1-3pm. In lieu of flowers, remember dad in all things miniature and do something kind for someone every day...and remember that you are a someone too. If desired, condolences may be directed to the family at details@polarcom.com