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March 16, 1922 – May 4, 2014

Born in the Village of Alert Bay, Cormorant Island, B.C., Bert passed away in Victoria, B.C. with his family by his side after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Bert was predeceased by his brother, Daniel (Dan) Matthews and is survived by sisters; Dorothy (Dot) Gorbatuk, Roberta (Billie) Stange and Ethel (Lovie) Petrie. He is also survived by his loving wife, Inez May Matthews (Tame) of 68 wonderful years; daughter, Rosemary Tull (Gregory); sons, Robert (Bob) Matthews and Martin Matthews, Susan (Sue) McKinney; grandchildren, Russell (Nicole), Leanne (Jack), Tim (Yuka), Casey (Tanya), Matthew (Matt) and great-grandchildren, Reid, Katelyn, Madelyn, Cassidy, Tyler, Dylan and Myles.

In WWII Bert served his country and defended the country that he cherished so much. Bert served as Flight Lieutenant in the RAF 120 Coastal Squadron based in Northern Ireland and Iceland flying VLR (very long range) Liberator (B24) bombers. His principle task as an Astro Navigator and Bombing leader was to assist in closing the mid-Atlantic gap in the Battle of the Atlantic. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for bravery in 1943.

Bert lived a full life enjoying golfing, gardening, researching medical technology, attending church and volunteering in the community.

The name Herbert means “Illustrious Bright Warrior” and that, he was for 92 years. The family would like to extend profound respect and appreciation to Dr. M. Mann, Dr. D. Trerice, Dr. J. Goulart and the RJH Oncology medical staff.

Remembrance and Celebration of Life Service is to be held at St. Michael and All Angels Church, 4733 West Saanich Road at 2:00 pm on Saturday, May 24, 2014. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to BC Cancer Foundation or the Heart & Stroke Foundation of BC. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallbros.com.



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