Obituary of John Matthews

April 27, 1961 – January 19, 2020 “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us” -Gandalf, The Lord of the Rings Our precious John or known to those who loved him as “Uncle John”, passed away peacefully in Grande Prairie, Alberta on January 19, 2020 at the age of 58 years. John graduated from the University of Alberta in July 1987 with a Bachelor’s of Secondary Education. With this education he became a teacher at the Grande Prairie Composite High School where he had attended as a student earlier in life. He was a total gamer, an avid reader, a movie and music lover as well. He enjoyed the Star Wars movies and The Lord of the Rings series of books as well as the movie versions. John was a proud nerd and would teach family and his friends to be proud nerds as well. After all, the world is run by them! John had a huge personality and was an amazing family member, his huge heart showed through in his thoughtful displays of generosity towards his family and friends. With his loving nature, he would think about the finest of details and incorporate them in any way possible to make something even more special. John will be deeply missed and be carried forever in the hearts of his family and all who loved him. “Many places I have been, many sorrows I have seen. But I don’t regret, nor will I forget all who took the road with me.” -The Last Goodbye by Billy Boyd (The Hobbit) On Saturday February 22, 2020 at 10:00am, Wonderland Toy and Hobby (10032 100 Avenue in Grande Prairie, AB) will host the 1st Uncle John Championship. A Magic the Gathering sealed tournament to raise money for charities to create barrier free community activities. The cost to participate in the tournament is $40 and all the profits will go to the GP Accessibility Advisory Committee. Anyone is welcome, it will be a great opportunity to learn a new game and to get to know the community Uncle John loved so much. Memorial donations in John’s memory may also be made payable to the Grande Prairie Accessibility Advisory Committee care of Bear Creek Funeral Home 11802 99 Avenue Grande Prairie, Alberta T8W 0C7 Care entrusted to Bear Creek Funeral Home 780-830-7742 www.bearcreekfuneral.com