Kenneth Harry Matheson

Kenneth H. Matheson

On August 16, 2023, Kenneth Harry Matheson passed away at the age of 85. The story of Kenneth is one that will continue as the lives of the people he touched will carry him in their hearts and pass along his memories to generations to come. His story cannot be told without telling the story of his wife, Barbara. They celebrated 65 years of marriage in July and have been at each others side for 70 years. "He's been there since I was 15" is what mom keeps saying. They were lovers, best friends, and each other's biggest fans and supporters. Kenneth and Barbara raised three children; Michael, Stacy, and Jeffrey. They inherited three additions to the family as their children married Jeanette, Matthew, and Tracey. Ken and Barbara were a part of welcoming each of their grandchildren to the world: Andrew, Kyle, Chase, Saige, Alec, Garrett, and Kenneth. Their grandchildren have had the pleasure of playing with, learning from, and, in the end, celebrating their grandpa's amazing life.


Ken had a career that he can look back on with pride as what he did and accomplished made a difference. Guided by the Matheson Scottish Motto, Fac et spera (Do and Hope), he helped generations of students and faculty achieve and exceed their goals through support, inspiration, and building a foundation the Mendocino School District could thrive on. Ken was principal of Mendocino High School for 13 years from 1975-1988 and Superintendent from 1989-1999. In 1998 he was nominated by colleagues and received the Charles Binderup Award as outstanding Superintendent of the year. In the nomination letter his colleagues wrote, "seldom will Ken take credit, and even then he shares it with others. Ken's leadership has a supportive yet hands-off style that has created wonderful opportunities for risk-taking and genuine learning among staff members."


Ken and Barbara retired together in 2000 and began new life adventures. They traveled extensively with adventures all over the world. No location could rival the annual family gathering in Twain Harte. Ken and Barbara grew up vacationing in Twain Harte, later owned a cabin there, and then introduced the area to their grandchildren. For 20 straight years they hosted the family for a week of fun times at the lake and some epic games of poker and Yahtzee.


Another great love was his gardening. Spending hours in the yard creating beautiful landscapes and ponds was his passion. His yard belonged in Sunset magazine and was the host location for his daughter's wedding.


Dad may not be with us in body, but we feel him in spirit and will always carry him with us.


Please join family and friends for a "celebration of life" to be held at the Mendocino Community Center on Sunday, October 22, 2023, at 3:00 pm.