Gary James Matthews

Apr 4, 2021

Gary James Matthews, age 62, a lifelong Alaskan, passed away April 4, 2021, in Tacoma, Wash. Born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, Gary graduated from Service High School in 1976, and worked in the construction industry his entire career as a Project Manager, Supervisor and mentor all over Alaska and the Lower 48.

Gary will be remembered for his quick wit, fondness for storytelling and his helping hand for all he knew. He always had a funny story about something that happened to him and the people in his life, and there were many on all fronts. His laugh was infectious and his personality gigantic.

Gary will also be remembered for his positive attitude, kind heart and jovial personality. Gary was a man of great integrity and his work ethic was unmatched. He was a committed family man and husband to his wife Suzan until her death. His brother once said, "Gary's the heart of our family." He took an active role in the lives of all of his siblings, nieces, nephews, granddaughters and godsons. Gary was a dedicated and faithful friend, Gary's friendship was his greatest gift as Gary was a best friend to all who knew him.

Gary enjoyed traveling and loved nothing more than a good road trip. Bowling was one of his favorite activities and he bowled in several leagues over the years. Gary had a passion for collecting Native Alaskan Art and preserving his Athabaskan heritage.

Gary is survived by his father, Matt Matthews (Carol); sisters, Laura (Bob), Jamie (Sam), Cheryl (Greg) and Shelby; brother, John (Denise); nephews, Robert, Michael, Jason and Aaron; nieces, Lori Ann, Regina and Krystal; granddaughters, Renee Stone and Devin Merilatt; and his Washington family, the O'Haras, mom Caroll, Cassie and his two godsons, Levi and Liam; several aunts, uncles, cousins and too many friends to mention, as Gary was loved by many and will be missed by all who knew him.

Preceded in death by his mother, Martha; wife, Suzan; and brother-in-law, Greg.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, June 20, 2021, at Kincaid Chalet from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Cancer Society in Gary's name would be appreciated.