Born in Portland, Maine on February 4th, 1953 to Frederick Russell and Pauline Bennett Matthews, “Johnny” as known to his family and friends, grew up in the North Deering neighborhood, attending Lyseth and Lyman Moore. During that time he was a Boy Scout, played Little League, which led him to be part of the Greater Portland area championship team. Johnny was a graduate of Deering High School, becoming an accomplished cross-country and downhill skier for the high school team.
Johnny went on to be one of the most talented in the automotive collision repair business; he obtained his Adjuster’s Property & Casualty license for the State of Maine and Texas. As many know, he was the “jack of all trades”, home construction, a small business owner. His hobbies over time included racing at Beech Ridge, competing in kickboxing, had his pilot license, and enjoyed hunting. He taught his daughter how to ski, and enjoyed their competition down the slope. Johnny was also a member of the Northeast Harbor Masonic Lodge, and the Anah Temple Shrine.
Wherever he went, he developed friendships, many of which lasted over his lifetime. He had such an infectious laugh, he had the ability to make everyone around him laugh, and was always someone you could count on. He was very well read, the day did not start until he read the paper, always starting with the sports section, and always ended the day walking his favorite little Frenchie side-kick, Emmet.
John retired at the age of 65, enjoying a slower pace at Highland Lake, with a Coor’s Lite and a good cigar.
We were all lucky to have him. Watching him fight this cancer battle for these last few months has been heartbreaking. Only Johnny (Mapes) would leave us the same day he came into this world.
John is survived by his children Sara Matthews Wescott and Dylan Matthews, their mother Pamela Matthews, granddaughter Grace Wescott and Angela Libby who was like a daughter to him. He’s also survived by Martina Casparius, daughters Monika and Marena Baldwin, granddaughter Alayna Baldwin Dagnese. Sisters Judith Cookson, Martha Bucklin and husband Chuck, and Linda Matthews. He is survived by many nieces, nephews, and his entire Bruno’s family, all of which whom love him dearly. He was predeceased by his brother Frederick Matthews, Jr.
There are some who bring a light so great that even after they have gone, the light remains.
He will be dearly missed by family and friends.
Celebration of Life at Bruno’s, Allen Ave. Friday Feb. 18 4:00PM
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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