John “Tom” Thomas Mathews, 72, of Thomas Drive in Niles passed away early on Wednesday, August 19, 2009 with his wonderful wife by his side.

In keeping with his wishes he has been cremated and will be buried at sea.
Tom was born on Dec. 5, 1936, to the late John and Mary (Reagan) Mathews in Muskogee, Okla.

After high school Tom went straight in to the United States Navy. He proudly served his country for over 20 years, and two wars, until he retired in 1974 as a Chief Petty Officer.
He moved to Michigan and started another career at Logan Industries where he met his wife Maggie. Together they had a wonderful life. Tom was always a true gentleman and lived to make his family happy. In 2004 Tom retired again, this time from Logan Industries after more than 11 years as a dedicated employee.

When Tom wasn’t working he could be found spoiling his family. He was the happiest when he was making his family happy, especially his grandson Zach who will always fondly remember him as “Poppie.” Tom was an avid animal lover; he fed every animal that came to his house and loved to watch the birds out the front window. Tom enjoyed drag racing and the NHRA. Being in the Navy for many years Tom was proud to be the family historian and even referred to himself as the “family nerd” when it came to history.  He even kept meticulous records of every place he was stationed and every vehicle he ever owned.

He was preceded in death by his parents.
Tom is survived by his wife Margaret “Maggie” Mathews, daughters Leslie Caldron of Phoenix, Ariz., Melonie Williamson of Bastrop, La., Shanda Farmer of St. Joseph, and Amber Farmer of South Bend, Ind., five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Tom always wanted to help out those in need. To continue his legacy, memorial donations may be made in Tom’s memory to the Logan Center located at 2505 East Jefferson Blvd.; South Bend, IN 46615.

Condolences, photos and memories may be left for the family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.

Arrangements were by Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Niles.