Michael Mathews, of Niles

Published 8:51 am Wednesday, January 21, 2015

May 31, 1942 — Jan. 18, 2015

Michael Mathews, 72, of Niles passed away Sunday, Jan. 18, 2015 at home after a long battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his family. Mike was born May 31, 1942 to Buford and Eleanora Mathews in Niles.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Buford and Eleanora Mathews; and brother, Steven Mathews.

Michael Mathews

Mike is survived by his wife of 53 years, Myrna; sons, Scott Mathews and Robert Mathews; daughter, Rebecca (Mike) Smith; brother, Cloyd (Beverly) Mathews of Kentucky; sister, Sue Rigney of Niles; sister-in-law, Kay Mathews of Kansas; grandchildren, Chad (Sara) Mathews, Katie Mathews, Jessica Smith, Andrew Smith, Michaela Smith, and Amber Mathews; many nieces and nephews.

Michael and his wife owned and operated Electrical Repair Service for 36 years. He enjoyed repairing electric pumps and motors for people. He retired from the business Dec. 31, 2013. Mike loved to tend his garden and see things grow. He fed the squirrels and birds in his yard.

Mike was one of Jehovah’s witnesses in Niles all his life and helped build several Kingdom Halls in the area.

He will be greatly missed by all his family and friends.

Funeral services will held by the family be at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015 at the Niles Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 603 N. 17th St., Niles, MI 49120. Donations can be made to Hospice at Home, or the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Cremation has taken place. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hoven Funeral Home, Buchanan. Online condolences may be made at www.hovenfunerals.com.