Harold Matthews

Harold Leslie Matthews died June 17, surrounded by loved ones. He was born Dec. 10, 1923 in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada to William and Bessie Matthews.

Harold was a born entrepreneur. At the age of 7, he began selling Liberty magazine to the neighborhood for 5 cents each. A newspaper carrier by age 12, he realized the need for a bicycle, which he bought on credit, making payments of $1 per week. While he worked at other jobs, he always returned to his love of the newspaper business. Setting his own terms, he worked as an independent contractor for the Regina Leader Post, Vancouver News-Herald, Portland Oregonian and Seattle Times.

He discovered his love for and ability in athletics early in life. Living on the prairies, he and his friends played baseball and football to stay in shape for the real season — hockey. He worked hard but always arranged his hours so that he had time for sports.

While sports were important, when his nation needed him, he volunteered to join the Navy. He proudly served on the H.M.C.S. Outarde, patrolling the waters of Alaska and British Columbia during the Japanese invasion of the Aleutian Islands.

He was always all about family. Harold moved the family to the United States in 1961 for more promising opportunities. He became a proud citizen Aug. 8, 1968. He made time for his children and grandchildren’s activities and could be relied upon to coach or be their loudest cheering section. He loved to share his life stories with all of us, creating learning opportunities, a lifetime of laughter, amazement, and shared memories.

Harold loved the Key Peninsula, moving and retiring here in 1992. He and his wife Ruth joined the Key Peninsula Lutheran Church in 2001, taking an active part in the church. Harold loved his church and they loved him.

Harold is survived by his wife of 71 years, Ruth; children Trish (Eric) Drage, Robert (Lisa) Matthews and Gayle (Michael) Moeller; and many grandchildren, nieces and nephews he loved dearly and was known to tease mercilessly.

A celebration of life is planned for Saturday, Aug. 28 at 1 p.m. at Key Peninsula Lutheran Church, 4213 Lackey Road NW, Lakebay.