It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Don Matheson. Don passed away peacefully on March 24, 2024 at the age of 97 in Vancouver, BC.
Don was born in Yorkton, Saskatchewan to Donald and Solveig Matheson and grew up enjoying the simple pleasures of life in the prairies. He later went on to pursue his higher education at the University of Saskatchewan, where he earned a degree in Engineering. Don and his brother, Kent, started Matheson Bros. Ltd., a leading construction, engineering and road-building company in Saskatchewan and across Canada. Don made significant contributions to the industry through innovative designs.
Don was civic-minded and served on Yorkton City Council and as Deputy Mayor. He also served on the Board of Governors of the University of Saskatchewan. One of Don's proudest achievements was representing Saskatchewan on the Board of Directors of the Bank of Canada in the late 1960s–something he shared proudly and often. He was honoured to serve in this capacity and was respected for his keen insight and contributions to the Board.
In 1971, Don made the decision to move his family to Vancouver, BC, where he began working for the Baxter Group and later, Waisman Architectural Group. After a couple of years, Don ventured out with his own engineering and construction consulting services company. Throughout his career, Don worked on various interesting projects, leaving a lasting impact on the communities he served and the people he met.
Early in life, Don loved playing sports, especially golfing, hockey and curling. Later in life, Don was the reliable sideline hero at nearly every recreational family sporting event–often travelling across town to attend multiple soccer games in one day. His love of aviation led him to pursue his pilot’s license, allowing him to take his adventures skyward in his Cessna airplanes.
Don was predeceased by his wife, Joyce, and his son, Brian. He leaves five children and their spouses, Mavis (Adam), Glenn (Sharon), Laurie, Robert (Joanne), and Elaine (David). He was a cherished grandfather to his ten grandchildren Tina (Doug), Garett, Sarah (Justin), Brigitte (Thomas), Pat, James, Angela (Don), Cheryl, Natalie and Theresa, and a doting great-grandfather to his three great-grandchildren (Luke, Eleanor and Theodore). Don's family meant so much to him, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A private celebration of life will be held on April 19, 2024. We sincerely appreciate the care and attention he got at Windermere Care Centre in his final years.
Don's legacy of good nature, humour and dedication will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. His quirky exploits and love of ladders will be missed. May he rest in peace.