William (Bill) Matthews
November 9, 1935 to August 26, 2023
Obituary
In Loving Memory of William Jacob Matthews
November 9th, 1935 – Grand Bank, NL
William Jacob Matthews known affectionately as Bill, passed away peacefully at home on August 26th, 2023, leaving a legacy of love, accomplishments and a profound commitment to family, community, and adventure.
Predeceased by his beloved parents, Fronie and Charles Hong, his cherished brothers Mel, Don and Ed Hong, as well as his brother-in-law Felix Nieves. He is survived by his wife Carol (Nee MacNab), his children Jane, Sarah (Eric Lamme) and Daniel (Katie Wadden), his grandchildren Havie and Geny Carter, Seb and Andy Milord and Jacob and Samuel Matthews. He also leaves to mourn his brothers, Orv Matthews (Sandra) and Cliff Hong (Ros), sister, Rose Nieves, and sisters-in-law Anne and Anna Hong.
Bill displayed his devotion to Newfoundland as a Captain in the Royal Newfoundland Regiment. He supported the Special Olympics, Habitat for Humanity, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Planned Parenthood and numerous sports organizations. Bill was an honourary life member of the Royal Newfoundland Yacht Club, sponsoring Race Week for 20 years. He enjoyed every moment sailing, chatting on the wharf or having a fish and chips with a Lime Crush!
Bill owned and operated four car dealerships, cementing his name in the automotive industry. In 1999, he was bestowed the Laureate Award, the highest honour for Canadian automotive dealers and the first Newfoundlander to achieve this accolade. In 2012, Bill was the recipient of the International Volkswagen Diamond Pin Award – the third ever in Canada.
With a great sense of humour and adventure, Bill did things his own way. He studied the practice of yoga and meditated daily, travelled the world for a year by himself and loved taking chances eating and cooking international cuisine. His openness to learn, afforded Bill friends from all over the world. Yet, his favourite moments were at home, on fishing trips with his brothers, boating with his family and around the dinner table with Carol and the kids.
In the words of those who knew him best, “When he shook your hand, you knew the deal was done.” Bill was a gentleman, known for his honesty, humility and integrity. He was a mentor and a dynamic presence leaving an indelible mark on anyone fortunate enough to know him. His firm handshake, style and quick wit defined him.
Special thanks to those who helped Bill in his later years with Parkinson’s Disease – Tony and Bernadette Green, Dr. Susan Mercer, Dr. Kyna Squarey, Dr. Rick Bhatia, Dr. Karl Misik, Jennifer Williams, Jennifer Carroll and countless friends and family.
As we celebrate Bill Matthews’ life, we are reminded of the impact he made, the love he shared, and the inspiration he provided. Visitation will be at Carnell’s Funeral Home, 329 Freshwater Road, on Tuesday, August 29th (2-4 PM; 7-9 PM). Funeral to be held at St. Francis of Assisi, 29 Outer Cove Rd, Outer Cove, on Wednesday, August 30th at 2PM. Donations can be made in Bill’s memory to the Parkinson’s Society Newfoundland and Labrador.
Schedule
Visitations
2-4 p.m. on August 29, 2023
7-9 p.m. on August 29, 2023
Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
View on Map
funeral
2:00pm, Wednesday August 30th
St. Francis of Assisi Church
29 Outer Cove Rd, Outer Cove
Carol, Jane, Sarah and Daniel: I only heard of Bill’s passing recently- so sorry for your loss. He was a ‘dad’ to all of us neighbourhood kids, an incredible force and always led with love. A true gentleman.
sending much love. Sangeeta
During my years with VW Canada I had the privilege of interacting and working with Bill . He was an outstanding example of a true ” officer and a gentleman ” …………… His Values ,and that Caring Attitude are an example for all of us .
May he Rest in Peace .
Clive and Barbara Warrilow .
Carol , Jane ,Sarah and Danny ,
So sorry to hear of Bill’s passing —he was a wonderful person , full of personality and a love of his family .
I am out of the country but wanted to send Condolences to all of you .
Ann McLoughlan
Carol, Danny and family, so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing . Please accept my sincerest condolences
Carol, Danny, Jane, Sarah and families,
My deepest and sincerest condolences to you all today on the passing of your loved one. Bill left you all with so many great memories and because of his enormous charm and great sense of humor, those cherished memories will make you laugh and cry every time you speak his name. He certainly will not be forgotten by all who knew him. RIP Bill
Carol and family, so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. Please accept our condolences, cherish and share your wonderful memories.
Jesse and Rexine Cheater
Carol and family , so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing.
Brenda and I would like to express our sincerest condolences at this most difficult time. I have many fond memories of our time together at Terra Nova motors, a gentleman who was always available to offer help and guidance. Thinking about you all at this time.
Peter and Brenda Lundrigan
Welland ,ON.
Dear Carol, Jane, Sarah & Daniel… please accept my condolences at this time of Bill dying. He was such a great guy and you formed a wonderful family. Having read his Obituary, I realise just how much he accomplished… amazing to say the least. Though you’ll all miss him, he’s gone to a better place … pain free and at peace. You’re in my prayers …. Affectionally,
Jennifer Whitfield
Carol, my sincerest condolences to you and your family on the passing of your husband / father. My thoughts are with you all at this difficult
Heather Hickman
I had the pleasure to spend some time with Bill on a dealer trip and was truly an interesting gentleman to share stories with.
My condolences to all of his family and friends.
My condolences to all of Bill’s family. He was a very kind ,thoughtful and generous man. I will never forgot how he helped myself and our family when our Eurovan broke down during my vacation/dealer visit. I often held his business up as an examle of how to people. He will be missed.
Sarah, Danny and Family,
We’re so sorry to hear of your loss. Our sincerest condolences,
Hilary & John
Oh Carol, so very sorry to read this sad news, such a wonderful man. Our deepest condolences to you and all your family.
My dear Sarah:
Thinking of you and your family, warmest condolences to you all.
Margot
So sorry to hear of Mr. Matthews passing. Thoughts are with your family and colleagues during this difficult time.
Sarah and family, our condolences to you and your family. Wishing you peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Always a gentleman. Fond memories of friendship and kindness with unforgettable times in the hockey rink shared over the years. Heartfelt condolences.
So sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. He was a fine man, successful in business, yet kind and unpretentious.– a rare combination .Rest in peace.
To all of Bill’s family, Carol, their children and Bill’s brothers and my friend his sister Rose, my heart felt condolences. I am honoured to have know Bill. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Brenda Chaytor
Sending our sincere condolences to the family. I have many fond memories of Bill growing up. Thinking of you all.
Carol, Sarah and the Matthews and Hong families, our sincere condolences on Bill’s passing. Thinking of you all during this sad and difficult time.
Barry & Glenda Wilkins
To all of Bill’s family our sincere condolences on his passing .He was a fine man to spend time with and always had a pleasant and caring way about him. Having him involved with Special Olympics when Sam was President was a real joy as he made such a tremendous contribution on the Board representing The Newfoundland Auto Dealers Association who provided tremendous support. Rest in peace friend Bill! Sam & Eleanor Walters
Our sincere condolences to your family.
Carol & family…so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. Treasure your memories of a wonderful husband, father & grandfather.
I am so sorry to hear of Bills passing, I have so many great memories of him , every time I seen him before my dad passed away he would always say, what’s uncle Willie cooking for supper tonight, I would tell him and if you want it call before 5 so he can put on extra rice, I think he did a couple of times. Carol and Family my thoughts are with you all. RIP Bill
Carol, my thoughts are with you and Jane, Sarah & Daniel. Bill was a gem and always made me laugh.
Carol and family, sending my sincerest condolences to you all at this difficult time.
Sorry to hear about Bill.
Condolences to Carol and family.
Our sincere condolences to Carol, Danny and all the family. Our thoughts are with you during this sad and difficult time.
Art and Holly Stanley
Carol and family,
Bill and family have been a great business supporter of ours, for which we will be forever grateful. Beyond that Bill expressed a genuine concern, with witty humor which made you feel like passing it forward. We have fond memories . Sincere condolences,
Gerry & Lynda Dowden
My heartfelt sympathies to Carol, Jane, Sarah, Dan, Havie, Geny and the family for your great loss. Rest in peace Bill Matthews. With love, Karen Munro (Chile, SA – Trepassey NL)
Dan and Family. My deepest condolences on your loss. I didn’t get a chance to work with your Dad but I have heard story about what a wonderful, caring and funny man he was.
Dan and family’s. Condolences on behalf of myself and Scotiabank Dealer Finance. When I first started working with Scotiabank the only direction I got ; don’t go see Bill Matthews unless you are wearing a shirt and tie . Always business professional. We drove around with a shirt and tie in our vehicles just in case he called. ☺️
Your father was always welcoming , supportive and extremely funny.
We lost a great man in the automotive industry
Bill was a wonderful gentle person who gave so much to support many causes. I’m sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathy to Carol and family
Dan, Jane and families
Our deepest condolences on the loss of your father. May you find comfort in celebrating his life and legacy..
Carol and family. Sorry to hear about Bill’s passing. May he rest in peace.
Our deepest condolences to Dan, and the Matthews Families for your loss. May the love of family and friends that surround you give you peace and comfort during this challenging time.
My deepest condolences to Mrs. Matthews, Jane, Sarah and Dan,
The times will Bill in the Dealer World in NL in addition to our times that we all shared between our families at the Yacht Club are such valuable memories to me.
Bill was classic in his humor, charm and warmth.
His battle is over may he rest in peace.
Take care,
Tim
My deepest sympathies to Carol, Dan and the entire family.
One of the finest people I have ever met, Bill’s personality and values imprint on you for life.
He will be missed but always remembered.
May he now rest in peace.
JACK VINEY
Carol, Jane, Sarah and Dan,
I’m very sorry to hear of the passing of Bill. He was a good friend to my parents and left a strong impression on me during the many family gatherings at Hogan’s Pond. I remember him as a real gentleman who loved telling stories usually with his easy-going sense of humor and that great smile. Please know that you are in my thoughts, and you have my deepest condolences.
John Buckle (Little John)
To Carol and all Bill’s family and friends, we were saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. We only knew Bill for a short time while our sons played hockey together. We have a lot of fond memories from the on the road trips. It was a pleasure to be around Bill, he could bring a smile to your face.. May his soul rest in peace and God Bless you all.
On behalf of the VW Atlantic area team and the entire VW brand, our heart felt condolences for the loss of a truly fine gentleman, family man, business partner and positive influencer of the people around him and the auto industry in Newfoundland and beyond.
Offering my condolences and wishes for peace and good memories to the Matthew’s family.
My Condolences
Rest In Peace Bill Matthew’s 🙏
Sincere Condolences to Carol and Family on the
passing of Bill, a fine gentleman! May he Rest in
Peace. God Bless..
Ron often speaks of Bill who was in the same classes in school. We had dealings over the years with Bill to buy vehicles at his place of business. Bill was always there for a chat and it was the best service being offered. Rest in peace Bill. Sincere condolences to all his family members. Ron and Marie nee Furey Power. .,
To Carol and family our deepest condolences and heartfelt sad ness to hear of Bills passing.When I spoke to Stephen earlier we both agreed that Bill was a wonderful gentleman in the truest sense of the word.It was always a pleasure to be in his company.I know he willl be so missed God bless
Condolences to Dan Matthew’s and all the families. I knew and worked with your Dad at Terra Nova Motors, back in the 70’s. My Dad Bill Wilson also worked with your Dad as a salesman. There are many stories from back in those days. Your Dad was a very kind, caring person and I had great respect for him. I was only 15 when I worked at Terra Nova Motors. Rest In Peace Mr. Mathew’s
My deepest sympathies to the family during this difficult time. Thinking of you all. May he Rest in Peace.
Carol, Jane, Sarah and Daniel:
This is such sad news. Chris and I have many fond memories of Bill and send our most heartfelt condolences.
Our thoughts are with the entire Matthews / MacNab family.
I too have fond memories of working with Bill in the car business way back when I was an apprentice mechanic.
But it was when I read so many condolences of people who shared similar experiences that I remembered and reflected on what a truly rare, kind and extraordinary man and businessman Bill
was. A huge loss.
A sad time, our thoughts and prayers for the Matthews family from Lesleigh, Peter and family in Calgary.
A sweeter man I have not met! Just with brief chats on Cornwall Heights you could tell the kindness in him and the love for his family. I am so sorry for your loss.
Sincere condolences to all the Matthews family. Bill was a very kind man to everyone.
Jane, Sarah and Danny.
I’m so sorry for your loss. I’ll be thinking of you all during this sad time.
Kim Spearns
Dan Jane and family. I have known Bill since 1979 when I bought my first new truck at Terra Nova Motors on Topsail Rd. Found him to be a honest and trustworthy gentleman. Have enjoyed doing business with him over the years. Please accept our condolences. Calvin and Joan Tuttle. Complete Auto Glass.
Sarah, Jane, Daniel… so, so sorry for the loss of your dad. I only had the pleasure of meeting him at VW, but he was always a super nice man.I feel honoured to have gotten to know his wicked cool kids. Condolences to you and your family. xo
To the Matthews family,
Mr. Matthews was a patient at the dental office where I work. I always looked forward to seeing him and having a chat; we both had a thing for ” apple pie” I remember once he even brought me in one. He was a kind, positive man and I will never forget him.
.RIP..my condolences
Carol, Jane, Sarah and Daniel,
Sorry for your loss. We’re thinking about you all over the coming weeks and sending our love from Calgary.
The Russell’s
Deepest condolences Sarah on the passing of your Dad. Sending love to you and the rest of the family. He will live on in your heart. He is at rest now.
Bill was the first Newfoundlander I met all those years ago at VW meetings. I was immediately taken in with his warmth, charm, humour, kindness and of course his active promotion of Screech to the uninitiated!
His involvement with the community and care for others make him an example for all. He made his mark. He will be missed but forever remembered.
My condolences to the Matthews family.
Bill was always kinda to me. He enjoyed a good joke.
Danny,
My sincerest condolences to your entire family on the loss of Bill. He truly was a well respected leader in his industry and will be missed by many.
Genevieve Young
(Olympic Construction Limited – Admin)
Our sincere condolences to the entire family for your sad loss.
Orv and Sandra, please accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of your brother.
Sending our condolences to the Mathew’s family . We will be thinking about all of you over the next couple of days and sending you lots of love and strength.
Matthews Family:
I just found out about the passing of your father and wanted to extend our deepest condolences for you and your family.
If there’s anything we can do to help, please let us know. There is no expiry date on this offer.
May the family only celebrate happy occasions going forward.
Rabbi Chernitsky
Dan, Jane and Sarah and Mrs. Matthews.
My condolences on the passing of your father and husband. I was lucky to have worked for Mr. Matthews at VW. I will always remember his humor and kindness. VW Christmas dinner, was probably my favorite memory. He truly showed how much he valued (not just Marlene and Deanne lol) but everyone who worked for him.
May he rest in peace
Carol and Family. My sincere condolences on your loss. May he rest in eternal peace
To the Mathews Family our sincere condolences.
Dale and Lisa Hutchens
Dear Carol and family, I was so sorry just now to read of Bill’s passing. I was always so impressed by his kindness, consideration and great humour whenever our paths crossed. He was a great businessman and a true gentleman. He will be so greatly missed by you and all your beautiful connecting families. Bless you all.
Bill was a true gentleman, statesman and leader in the automotive industry.
Bill was an outstanding car dealer and an even better human being,, always looking out for others. He was dedicated to the development of our youth, sitting on the board of Georgian College Automotive Business School of Canada for may years.
Any time I and others visited Newfoundland we were always warmly received and were treated to Newfoundland hospitality.
My heartfelt condolences go out to Dan and the entire Mathews family in this time of grief. He will sorely be missed. May he rest in peace.
I first met Mr. Mathews through the RNYC. He was welcoming and encouraging when an inexperienced female crew on a boat aptly named KAOS entered race week for the first time in August 1992.. His support at an event that he sponsored meant a lot!.
Over the years since then I enjoyed every encounter with him, as he was unfailingly upbeat, interested in people and invested in his community. My children spent many happy summers at the RNYC sailing school and his support of that school was also much appreciated. His positive energy and generous contributions had a big impact and he will be missed.
My sincere condolences to his family and close friends.
Doreen Neville
Carol , Cliff , Rose , Orv and family ,
We are deeply saddened to hear of Bills passing , he was a gentleman who loved life and his family , that was evident when you were in his company. Hold all those precious memories close in the days to come and know that you are surrounded by prayers and heartfelt sympathy . God bless ,
Lana and Derek Greenslade
Dan & Family;
My condolences on the passing of your father. I was very fortunate enough to have known him.
May all your wonderful memories be a comfort at this time.
Rest in Peace Bill
Rob
Orb and The Matthews/Fong Family,
I wish to express my sincere condolences to the Family. May the support of family and friends help at this very difficult time..
To Carol, Danny and Matthews Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Many fond memories of Bill at the rink and his kindness and generosity with parents and the kids. May the memories you have of Bill comfort you in the days ahead.
Orv and all the Matthews family – my sincere condolences to you all at this sad time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Hold on to your wonderful memories and they will get you through the hard days.
Beulah Welcher
Carol and family – We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Bill . He defined the true definition of a gentleman . Donna and myself have many memorable times spent together over the years . Allison and Angela always said that of all their friends parents Bill was one of their favorite which is a statement of his charter . He will be remembered fondly .
To Carol, Jane, Sarah and Daniel
It is with great sadness that we learn of Bill’s passing. We have such fond memories of Bill and the whole Matthews family at the Yacht Club. He was a true gentleman and a great supporter of the club and especially the Junior Sailing Program. His dealership was a long time sponsor of Race Week at the club. He will be greatly missed and Marie and I wish to extend our most sincere condolences to the whole Matthews family,
Condolences to the Matthews family. Thoughts are with you at this time.
Dan and Family
My deepest condolences to you and your Family.
I always enjoyed conversations with your Dad years ago as he dropped by the dealership. A real gentleman!!
Hoping your cherished memories will help you all at this difficult time
Ray Finn
Cliff,Ros and family. So sorry for your loss . Thinking of you and your family at this time.
Condolences to all family and the multitude of friends< Many many years ago i bought an Austin Cambridge from 'Bill' while he worked "Baird Motors" Merrymeeting Rd;"-(Now colemans)-EVER SINCE, when WE SOMETIMES 'BUMPED INTO EACH OTHER BILL ALWAYS HAD time for a short chat –Hi -Jim how all going with you, etc; A very nice Chap He will be missed in the community, Our thoughts and prayers–GOD Bless–JIM/Wife Nelia Campbell-ST. John's NFLD.
I worked with Mr. Matthews at Terra Nova Motors. He was a real gentleman.
Sincere condolences to the Matthews’ family. Over the years, our business relationship also became a wonderful friendship. Bill was a class act. He cared about his employees, his community, and his business partners. Bill became a role model to me. I have so many wonderful memories of him. He was a great man!
Darcy and Lisa
Carol sorry. To hear of your loss my condolences Tony
Sending my condolences to the entire Matthews’ family. While I didn’t have a chance to work under Mr. Matthews, his legacy was never far from everyone’s hearts. His presence and memories were always felt around the dealership. Rest easy Mr. Matthews.
To Orv & Sandra and the Matthews & Hong Families:
Our condolences to all of you. Bill certainly lived a wonderful life and enjoyed many accomplishments
in his business. We know his family will miss him but will also cherish all the wonderful memories he left you.
Take Care.
Please accept my sincere condolences.
You are in my thoughts and prayers during this most sad and difficult time.
Lois Kaulback
Carol,Sarah and the Matthews family. Sincere condolences on your loss..
Linda Giannou
Dan, and Matthews family. Sorry to read of Bills passing. He was a wonderful influence and mentor to me when I started out on my sales career at Terra Nova Motors in 1987. Always a gentleman and a straight shooter, you could always depend on him for guidance and advice.. Sincere condolences on the passing of a fine gentleman.
Rick Bowering
On behalf of all of my family I offer my condolences to all of the family on their tremendous loss. Another special person gone to a better place. You will always have your special memories that will assist you in getting through your sorrow.