Dan Matthews was born in Marietta, Georgia on 11/21/1945 to Robert “Bob” Matthews and Willie Irene (Moon) Matthews. He passed on 3/21/2018 surrounded by family. Dan’s family moved from Georgia to California when Dan was 4 years old. As a child he was involved in Boy Scouts and loved Hopalong Cassidy. The Matthews family started their new life in Downey where Dan attended school graduating from Downey High in 1963 (GO DUCKS!). He loved to snow ski and collected pins from the many resorts he visited. As a young man Dan worked at SavOn Drugs until he was hired on with Southern California Edison in 1965, and would later transfer to the Tulare office in 1976. His exemplary work ethic and will to succeed enabled him to work his way up the ranks within the company. Dan met Linda in 1979, married in 1980 and started their family. He loved spending time with friends golfing and fishing. He often said, “Sometimes fishing can get in the way of a good fishing trip”. He also enjoyed many adventures with his family in the great outdoors including camping, target shooting, boating, and traveling. He liked cooking and trying new recipes. He had a knack for making amazing chicken wings and killer chocolate chip cookies.
Dan is survived by his loving wife Linda (Huyette) Matthews, daughter Heidi Matthews, son Randy Matthews (Gilbert Garza and Branden Yandell), all to whom he was dedicated in every way. Dan is also survived by sister-in-law Nancy Goertzen (husband Rodney Sr.), and their son Rodney Goertzen Jr. (and family). Dan was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Irene Matthews, brother Norman Matthews, and sister Gwendolyn (Matthews) Meggs.
Celebration of Life services was held on Thursday, April 26, 2018 at 12 Noon at the home of Rodney & Nancy Goertzen, 32968 Road 132 in Visalia.
In lieu of flowers please donate to a charity of your choice.
Tributes and condolences may be made at www.millerchapel.com.
Arrangements entrusted to Miller Memorial Chapel, 1120 W. Goshen Ave., Visalia, CA