Keith Matthews

A sweet and tender reunion is happening with our dad, Keith Alvin Matthews and our mom, his “Little Bear”, when he passed from this life on Wednesday March 13, 2019 near his beloved home in Almy, Wyoming.

Keith was born in Evanston, Wyoming on October 21, 1936 to Donald Eugene and Irene Hutchinson Matthews.

He was blessed in his growing up years by spending much time on the Peart Dairy Ranch.  He and his dad built a cherished relationship working side by side while delivering milk to the Evanston community by horse drawn wagon and sleigh.  That was the start of Dad's great work ethic, which he passed on to his children and grandchildren.

Life become full and complete for Keith when he met his dark-haired beauty Ilene from Woodruff, Utah.  They were married in the Salt Lake Temple on May 31, 1957.  Their marriage began a loving and special relationship that reached just shy of 6 decades and taught their children and grandchildren about true love and life by their wonderful examples.

Keith had a great passion for raising chickens which he began when he was just a small boy and continued on for most of his lifetime.

In the Spring of 1964, Keith and Ilene moved their little family to Almy, Wyoming, where they raised their family and enjoyed life on their farm, hard work and all.  Dad worked for many years at South and Jones Sawmill and the City of Evanston, but at the same time began a small feed business out of a building attached to the garage.  Later, he successfully made his dream come true when he built his beloved IFA Keith's Feed Store.

Keith was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and held various positions throughout his lifetime, even with the latest calling of being a Primary teacher, which he greatly enjoyed.

Keith is survived by his children, Doug (Sandra) Matthews, Dave (Cindy) Matthews, Kayleen (Johnny) McCoy, Nancy (Russ) Thomson, Brent (Kim) Matthews.  21 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren; Sister Millie Day, numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Ilene Eastman Matthews, parents Donald and Irene Matthews, infant daughter Daralynn Sue Matthews, brother Donald Eugene Matthews Jr., Grandson Jeremy Keith Matthews, and great grandson Weston Buchanan.

Funeral services will be held Monday March 18th, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. in the Almy Ward Chapel at 251 Elm Street in Evanston. Visitation will be Sunday from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Almy Ward Church building located at 251 Elm Street.

There will also be a viewing on Monday at the church from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. prior to services.  Interment will follow the funeral service at the Evanston City Cemetery.