Kenneth Mathews

Ken Mathews, vibrant and full of life, left this world Sunday night, August 15th, after attending a big family wedding.  Spreading his big smile and sharing as many hugs as he could; completely enjoying the large gathering of family and friends.  He and his wife of almost 54 years, enjoyed a last dance together.

He drove home Sunday evening taking the back roads and enjoying Wisconsin’s beauty; stopping at Tasty Freeze for an ice cream.  Getting home, he carried in clothing, lay down on his bed and died moments later of a massive coronary.  Heaven has now received a real lover of people.

Ken served his country with honor in the United States Navy aboard the USS Ruchamkin from 1962-1966.  He was so proud to be able to attend the honor flight.

On September 30, 1967, Ken married the love of his life and best friend, Ruby Hammond.  They were six weeks short of sharing 54 wonderful years of married life.  Ken was a lover of people; always excited when he could join family and friends for conversation, good food and a beer. The Tomah Tractor pull was a highlight for Ken for 44 years.  There he formed friendships that lasted a lifetime.  He worked at St. Vincent Hospital for 18 years in valet.

One of Ken’s favorite pass times was spending time with his precious granddaughter, Paige.  He loved telling her stories of his childhood, visiting ice cream shops, playing games and going out for lunch.  It really didn’t matter.  They were together.  Ken loved deer hunting and especially enjoyed time spent with his son-in-law, Brian and many family members and friends.

Survivors include his wife and best friend forever, Ruby.  His daughter and buddy, Kimberly and son-in-law Brian Langan.  His granddaughter; Paige Langan, his only grandchild and “The delight of his life.”  Sisters: Vicky and Dave Bibber, Bonnie and Stan Johnson and Betty Weeks.  Brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: David Hammond, Ken and Marie Hammond, Troy and Bette  Hammond, John and Cyndi Hammond, Donna Hunsley, Judy and Dennis Girling, Carol and Nick Kampen, Sandra and Gene Gonia and Diane and John Anderson.  He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, many great nieces and nephews as well as many special friends.

In addition to his parents Ken and Beulah Mathews, he is preceded in death by his in-laws, Clayton and Kathryn Hammond, brother-in-law, John Hunsley and special friends, Jim Josephs, Chuck Blahnik, Dean Bellin and Joe Hockers.

Family and friends may visit at Nativity of Our Lord Parish, 2270 S. Oneida Street, Green Bay, on Thursday, August 26, from 9:00am until 10:45am with the Mass of Resurrection to follow at 11:00am.  Fr. Matt Simonar will officiate.  In lieu of flowers, donations will be made to various charities in Ken’s name.  

Many thanks go out to the outstanding family physician, Dr. Reddy, who gave endless information and compassionate care and to the Green Bay Police and Fire Department who came and worked diligently in our time of need.  A special thank you to Deacon Mike Dabeck for his care and concern during this difficult time.

Cotter Funeral and Cremation Care is assisting the family. Online condolences can be expressed at www.cotterfuneralhome.com .