Rich is the cherished son of the late John and late Jean Matthews, and brother of the late Donna (Larry) Bunnell. Rich is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 40 years, Shirley (Culver) Watson Matthews. He was a proud father and stepfather to the late Brian Matthews, Eric (Susan) Matthews, and Robyn Matthews, the late Christopher Watson, Stephen (John) Watson, and Donald (Susanna) Watson.
He was a cherished grandfather to Ian, Kyle, Alycia, Megan, Tyler and Addison, and uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Rich enjoyed a long and successful career as an engineer with Amoco Oil Company at their Whiting, IN, refinery. Rich joined Amoco as an engineer in the inspection department in 1960 after he received a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN. While holding a series of positions of increasing responsibility in engineering and maintenance, he went to night school and received a Master’s in Industrial Management in 1972. Rich continued progressing through the company, with his final position as manager of the Crude and Lubricants division. Rich eventually retired on Nov 1, 1992, after 32 years of service.
Rich was especially proud of his Purdue University education, and enjoyed returning to campus for Purdue football and basketball games. He had a lifelong love of golf, and generously gave his time to volunteer with the Boy Scouts and his church in Indiana for many years.
Rich will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his pride in the people he loved, and the many ways he gave of his time and talents to others. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.
Memorial Visitation will be held at Chapel Hill Gardens West Funeral Home, 17w201 Roosevelt Road, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181, on Saturday, August 29, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a Memorial Service at the same location at 11:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090, or the Wounded Warrior Project, PO BOX 758516 Topeka, KS 66675.
