Richard Lee Matthews, age 62, passed away on Memorial Day May 30, 2011 in Longmont, Colorado, leaving his body on Earth to join his loving mother, brother, and father in Heaven. Richard was taken from us before his time due to negligent end of life care.

In his honor we wish to remember Richard as he was but a year ago, with a huge smile on his face. In the winter months Richard “Dick” Matthews loved to cook, create unique salsa recipes, take care of his chickens, browse e-bay and talk on the phone for hours with family and friends. He loved to research family heritage, war, cars, rifles, and any subject which came to his liking. He was a problem solver and loved to tease others while feeling ornery. In the summer he loved to fish, garden, shoot guns, elk hunt with his friend Brian, watch the food network and spend time with close friend Dulce and “adopted son” Shane. Dick was especially fond of visiting his Brother Gary down at the cabin in South-eastern Oklahoma. Dick was a wonderful person who made friends with everyone he came into contact with; it can be said that he never met a stranger. He taught each of us something about ourselves we did not know before knowing him. He was able to make stain glass lamps, pressed flower arrangements and melt flowers onto candles. He had the patience to teach young kids how to do the same with his wealth of knowledge.

Dick was looking forward to a two week trip to Las Vegas, trading stocks on Ameritrade, panning for gold, and another summer vacation at the cabin. Reading about his accomplishments you would have never thought you were reading about the life of a quadriplegic of 44 years. He was an inspiration to everyone who knew him and never once complained. We will all miss him greatly.

Dick was born to C.B. Matthews and Grace LaRue Ward-Matthews on May 24, 1949 in Odessa, Texas.

He is survived by brother, Gary Matthews and girlfriend Gail Solt of Shawnee, OK. Niece, Lisa Kennedy and husband Benjamin Kennedy IV, Great Nephews Benjamin Kennedy V and Preston Kennedy of Edmond, OK, Niece, Staci Campbell and husband Brian Campbell, Great Nephew Weston Campbell and Great Niece Lauren Tollett of Lawrenceville, IL.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents and brother John Matthews.

Graveside service at the Dale Cemetery.

Shawnee News-Star, The (OK) - Thursday, June 9, 2011