Donald Mathews

STOW - Donald Harding Mathews, born February 22, 1923, went to be with God August 21, 2005 after a 2 1/2 year courageous battle with cancer. Surrounded by his family, he left with dignity and love, and was a true gentleman until the end.
Born in Cuyahoga Falls, he was a graduate of the Cuyahoga Falls High School class of 1940 and attended Georgia Tech where he was a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity. At the age of 21, he became the youngest registered surveyor at the time in the state of Ohio. He was a 60 year member of the Star Lodge 187 F&AM, Gyro of Akron, past board member for Crystal Lake Swim Club and a member of the Church in Silver Lake. He retired from the Summit County Engineers office with 30 years service.
A devoted husband, father and grandfather, he was an avid fisherman with a zest for life. He enjoyed a long list of close friends and acquaintances.
Preceded in death by his parents, W. Scott and Elizabeth Mathews; and parents-in-law, Clarence and Helen Christman; he leaves his beloved wife of 59 years, Grace; his loving children, Scott (Vicki) Mathews, Ann (Mark) Sunday, Alice Mathews, Fred Mathews and Moyra Mathews (Kris Ferencz); grandchildren, Kimberlee and Amy Mathews, Lindsay (Andrew) Evans and Ashley Sunday; and close friends, Lois Baird and Dee Strickland; as well as many other close relatives and friends.
Friends may call from 4 to 8 pm Wednesday, at the Clifford-Shoemaker Funeral Home, 1930 Front Street, Cuyahoga Falls. A Celebration of his life will be conducted at 11 am Thursday at the Church in Silver Lake, 1951 Kent Rd., Silver Lake, OH 44224, Rev. Dianne Shirey officiating. Should friends desire, any memorials may be made to the Church in Silver Lake in his memory.