Major Don Matthews

**wally15** · 13-06-2011, 17:34

god bless you mate you were a true gentleman in all ways, rest in peace mate wally and marion 15

**Lyn 61** · 13-06-2011, 17:36

On Behalf of the Mt Ash Branch R.W.F.C.Assoc we send our condolances to his family True Royal Welch Man R.I.P.

**Bricoates** · 13-06-2011, 19:44

All at the Caernarfon Branch RWFCA send our deepest condolences to Family and friends at the sad loss of Major Don Mathews

**Ianto 10** · 13-06-2011, 19:59

On behalf of Shrewsbury and District Branch RWFCA I would like to pass on our condolences in the passing of a true Royal Welchman, he will be sadly missed by all who knew him. RIP Don.

**Bob Bacon** · 13-06-2011, 20:12

Another 'Old Soldier' answers the Final Call!

Don was, in the best sense of the word, a ‘character’. His dry wit, sense of humour and smile were his trademark, and all went towards making him an enormously popular, warm and charismatic character

He played a huge part in the League of Friends and his passion for it never wavered. He successfully completed terms as the Secretary, Chairman and President.

Don's death is a huge loss to all those who knew him. We cannot comprehend his loss but we should consider ourselves very fortunate to have had such a good friend.

**Gerrycc943** · 13-06-2011, 20:48

It's a sad day for the RWFCA, even more sad for the London Branch having lost a stalwart, an abundance of Regimental matters and a shoulder to lean on!

Don was proud to be a Royal Welchman and equally proud to make everyone aware of it. Indeed, his email address was: Royalwelchman@googlemail.com.

When his illness was diagnosed, he placed the benefit of the Branch foremost, in announcing his resignation as Branch Chairman in view of his limited activity - the following is an extract of his resignation letter to the Branch President:

"I have spoken to Tony Corbett and he is prepared to take over as Branch Chairman, if appointed and Gerry Griffiths is prepared to take over from Tony. I believe the Branch would still be in good hands. This will be the first time in over 42 years that I have not been a Committee member of the Comrades or LOF:

1969: One of the founders of the LOF
1972: Entertainment Secretary Bridgend Branch
1976: Secretary LOF
1977: Chairman Bridgend Branch
1981: Treasurer London Branch
1992: Treasurer and Chairman London Branch
1992: President of LOF"

He was also a member of the RWFCA Executive Committee until his resignation last year.

A fitting tribute to Don, with the current Association turbulence, during his time as Chairman he was quite passionate that the London Branch should remain RWFCA - a passion shared by all Branch members.

RIP Don, you've more than earned your place in the historic vaults of the Royal Welch Fusiliers Regimental History!

Gerry Griffiths 43
Hon Sec
London Branch RWFCA

Paul Hinge · 13-06-2011, 22:00

Such sad news. Having foughty his last battle Don Matthews now is at rest with his fellow comrades on that great parade ground above. A True Royal Welchman and a gentleman through and through. Until we met again....sleep tight friend.

Paul Hinge Hon. Secretary on behalf Aberystwyth Branch.

**Dai72** · 14-06-2011, 19:32

A sad loss of a great man, RIP.

**BennytheBall** · 15-06-2011, 09:50

Our Deepst sympathy goes out to Don's Family, Friends, Comrades' and Fellow Chelsea Pensioners at this very, very sad time.
I had the honour to know Don through the RWFCA Exc Committee a true Royal Welch Fusilier.

from BennytheBall
All at the Shotton and Deeside Branch RWFCA

May You Rest in Peace.

A&SRHQ · 15-06-2011, 10:36

The funeral of Maj (Retired) Don Matthews will take place at:

The Church of the Royal Hospital Chelsea

The Royal Hospital Chelsea
Royal Hospital Road
London
SW3 4SR

The service will take place at 1430hrs, 30^th June 2011.

Flowers from the family only. Any donations should be made to the Royal Hospital Chelsea through the Chairman or Secretary London Branch RWFCA.