Philip Wayne Matthews

Philip Wayne Matthews, age 72, passed away peacefully at his home in West Branch, MI on Monday, August 19, 2024. Born on February 9, 1952, in West Branch to Wayne and Betty (Engman) Matthews.

Phil was a proud graduate of Central Michigan University, receiving a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He worked as an accountant for several businesses in the West Branch area during his work life. In later years he found fulfillment working in an alternative education program, where he shared his experience and compassion with teens. For eight years, before his retirement in 2022, Phil lived his joy of cooking as a cook at the Commission on Aging in West Branch and took particular pride in the service they provided.

Phil was known for his remarkable memory, never forgetting a date or an appointment without the need to write it down and remembering stories that family members preferred were forgotten.

Being a ball player early in his life, Phil maintained a life-long interest in sports and was a big fan of the Lions, Tigers, Spartans (1), Wolverines (2), and the Chippewas. For a time, he even tried coaching women’s softball. In addition to cooking, he enjoyed camping, canoeing and golf, especially with his dad. Phil will be remembered at the Loggers Depot, where he enjoyed visiting with his friends, sharing laughter and stories.

Among his proudest accomplishments was his membership in the Masonic Lodge, where he contributed positively to his community, made thousands of pasties, and fostered friendships. Phil is a past president of the West Branch Optimists Club.

Phil leaves behind a loving family, including his brother Glen (Diane) Matthews of Alanson, MI and sister Lorna (William) Eis of Hilton Head, SC. He is survived by a friend of many decades, Diane Graham of Lapeer, MI. He is also survived by nieces and nephews: Eric (Jessica) Matthews of Chicago, IL, Allen (Elizabeth) Matthews of Dimondale, MI, Michael (Melissa) Eis of Kennasaw, GA, Jennifer (Greg Raymond) Gaulin of West Branch, MI, and Kristen Eis of Chicago, IL; his great nephews Lucas Matthews, Brandon Eis, Ryan Eis and Nathan Eis; great nieces Adelle Matthews and Maddison Eis, and many cousins and friends.

He joins his parents, Wayne and Betty (Engman) Matthews, in eternal rest, as well as his sister, Kathy Gaulin, who preceded him in death.

Philip’s memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Those wishing to contribute a gift in Phil’s memory may consider Ogemaw County Commission on Aging at 1528 M-33, West Branch, MI 48661. 

A memorial service is not planned at this date. Interment will be at Brookside Cemetery in West Branch.

Arrangements were handled by Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch. www.steuernolmclaren.com