Kent Douglas Matheson

Kent Douglas Matheson
Kent "Matt" Matheson, whose career in public education spanned more than 40 years, died on September 18th at his home in Burien, Washington of complications associated with heart failure. He was 81.
Kent was born in Portland, Oregon on January 18th, 1936. His mother, Clara, was a homemaker and his father, Alex, was a printer. Unfortunately, both passed away before he was 4 years old. He was raised by his sister, Jean Lieb, and her husband, Ed Lieb. Their children, Carol and Larry, were like siblings to him. They lived in Corvallis, Oregon.
Kent attended Oregon State University and finished his Bachelor's Degree at Eastern Washington University, where he was a member of ROTC and a scholarship Basketball player. This is where he met the love of his life, Merrie Jane Matheson, over a homecoming float. They married immediately after graduation and were stationed at Fort Ord, California with the Army.
Kent was a natural leader, teacher, and coach. He dedicated his life to public education and the ideal that every child deserves equal access to an excellent education. He continued his education by earning a Master's Degree from Eastern Washington University and a Doctorate of Education from Washington State University.
Over more than 40 years, he held several roles and ascended to Superintendent of Schools for Ellensburg ('77-81), Highline School District ('81-93), and his final post in Flagstaff, Arizona ('93-98). During his educational tenure he received numerous awards, such as "Executive Educator Top 100 in America," President of Washington Association of School Administrators, Cougar Spirit Award, and Outstanding Eastern Washington University Alumnus.
In retirement, he was tireless in his support for and contributions to many organizations including the Highline YMCA Board, Matt Griffin (~15 years), Highline Hospital Board (~25 years) and the building committee for Highline Historical Society.
Kent is survived by his loving wife of nearly 58 years, Merrie Jane, and their three (3) children, Craig, Kimberley, Monique, and their families: Craig and his wife, Amy Jefferies, India, Helena, Owen, and Olivia; Kim and her husband, Rich Shedrick, Karinna (in loving memory), Luna, and Ryan; and Monique and her wife, Kate Lieber, Maxine and AJ. Kent is also survived by his niece, Carol, and nephew, Larry.
Kent will be missed by his large and loving family, his dear friends, and his professional colleagues. He had an incredible ability to lead by example and connect with everyone he met. He was proud and fiercely loyal, with his wisdom only exceeded by his kindness. To say he will be missed is an understatement. He left an indelible impression on many, and for having him in our lives we are forever grateful.
The family would like to thank all of you who shared a laugh with or were inspired by Kent, and ask that you keep him alive in your hearts. Also, a big thank you for the staff at Highline Community Hospital for their loving and compassionate care.
A private funeral service is planned. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Highline School District Scholarship Foundation, the Ellensburg School District Education Scholarship Foundation, or a charity of your choice. A Celebration of Life with friends and family will be held on Saturday, November 18th, from 2-5:00pm at the Normandy Park Community Club, Normandy Park, WA.