Gerald Richard Charles Matthews passed away in his sleep at the Civic hospital on April 11,2020, at the age of 64, due to complications of Glioblastoma.
Gerry was born on February 11,1956 to his parents Clarence and Audrey (Cooper) Matthews (predeceased}. He proudly spent his entire life in Ottawa, Ontario. He graduated from Sir Wilfrid Laurier in 1976. He then earned his Bachelor of Commerce with 1st class honours at Carleton University in 1980 and his Certified Management Accountant in 1984. He belonged to TMAC and then was a member of FMI for several years in which he served as Chair the year before his passing. He was employed as a CMA with the government for 38 years.
Gerry had a passion for writing and reading, with hobbies of playing the piano and camping with his children and grandchildren. He was also famous for his quick wit and his ”Dad jokes”. Gerry loved family get-togethers. Gerry took great pride in his city and shared his knowledge of it with everyone. In Gerry’s earlier years he enjoyed coaching his daughter’s soccer team for several years and ran the National Capitol Marathon in 1986. Gerry was liked by everyone known best for his friendly positive personality.
Gerry is survived by his loving wife Jackie Matthews and his daughter Laura (Kenny) Dill of Orleans, Ontario and son Richard Matthews of Ottawa, Ontario and his step-daughter Jennifer (Andy) Lacross of Phoenix, New York and step-son Joseph Cooper of Central Square, New York. His latest pride and joy was his grandchildren - Leightyn, Ryann and Wesley Dill, Patrick, Correy and Haley McAllister and Katelyn, Caleb and Abigail Cooper.
Gerry is also survived by his sister Marsha (Rick) Dowd and two brothers Roland (Gisele) Matthews, Fred (Kim) Matthews and several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.
Due to Covid we will be postponing Gerry’s Celebration of Life until restrictions are lifted.
Gerry Matthews, a good man. I first met Gerry in 1990 while I was working on a project at Canada Post. In 1992 I joined Consulting and Audit Canada (CAC) in the federal government and shortly thereafter Gerry came over to CAC from Canada Post. We were colleagues in the Finance Team at CAC, and worked together on various projects. Gerry moved to Treasury Board Secretariat and we continued to stay in touch, particularly with the FMI. I remember vividly when Gerry was preparing to run the marathon - he was tenacious, determined to finish, which he accomplished. Gerry was always upbeat, amiable and a great colleague and friend.
I hope a lifetime of good memories will sustain his family through these difficult times.