Paul M. Matthews

Mr. Paul M. Matthews, age 71, passed away unexpectedly Friday evening, August 29, 2008. He was born October 18, 1936 in Muskegon to Elmer and Flossie "Opal" (Warren) Matthews and had been a life resident. Mr. Matthews was a 1955 graduate of Muskegon Heights High School, was a member of the marching band, and a varsity tennis player. To support his mother, he started working for the Kroger Grocery Store as the produce manager. Then in 1961 he worked for the Metropolitan Insurance Company. In 1983 he opened his own agency, the Matthews Insurance Agency, which he operated until his passing. Mr. Matthews was a member of Fellowship Reformed Church, was a past Board Member for Teen Challenge, and was a former member of the Muskegon Optimist Club. Mr. Matthews had an appreciation for nature. He enjoyed camping, especially the annual camping trips to Ludington with family, and traveling with his wife, Lilah. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. On June 4, 1955 he married the former Lilah J. Christie in Muskegon and she survives him along with 6 children, Daniel (Pamela), Pamella (Juan) Ramirez both of Muskegon, Valerie (Steve) Westrick of Grandville, Christopher (Jean) Matthews of Fremont, Rebecca (Steve) Carr of Houghton, MI, Jason (Lisa) Matthews of Gowen, MI; 18 grandchildren; 2 great-granddaughters; cousin, Robert (Onda Faye) Matthews of Greenville, OH; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Lester Matthews; and baby sister, Ilene Matthews. SERVICES will be 11:00 AM Wednesday at Fellowship Reformed Church with Rev. Greg VanderMeer officiating. Burial will be in Norton Cemetery. VISITATION with the family will be from 2-4 & 6-8 PM Tuesday at The Lee Chapel Sytsema Funeral Homes, Inc. 6291 S. Harvey St. and one hour prior to the service at church. MEMORIALS to The Muskegon Rescue Mission will be appreciated.