Obituary of Donald R. Matthews

Matthews, Donald R., Ocala Donald R. Matthews, 78, of Ocala, died peacefully at home on Wednesday, July 14, 2010 .Born on April 24, 1932 in Dorchester, Nebraska he was the son of the late Ray and Lillian (Benson) Matthews. Don was an Air Force Veteran who served in Korea attached to the Eigth Army. He graduated from the University of Nebraska. His 30 year career was with Becton-Dickinson Corporation, having served in many states as Plant Manager; including Ocala. He was active in the community, serving as chairman of The IDC (EDC), and the United Way and the Chamber of Commerce. He was a member of the Elks Lodge#286, and the Rotary Club He was a member of Blessed Trinity Catholic Church and served on the Building Committee. He was also preceded in death by his sister Betty. Don is survived by his wife of fifty years, Catherine , sons, Dan of Baku, Azerbaijan and David of Ohio and his daughter Ann Strickland of Ocala; grandchildren, Andrew, Nicole, David, Jr. and Melissa.The Visitation will be held on Friday, July 16, 2010 from 5:00PM to 7:00PM at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Home, 910 SE Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala. A Mass will be held on Saturday, July 17, 2010 at 10:00AM at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, Ocala. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Park. Memorial Contributions may be given to Blessed Trinity or Hospice of Marion County.