Tribute

Funeral Service: February 2, 2024, St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, 531 Herbert Street, Duncan. 1.00
pm.
Mathew was born in South India and both of his parents passed leaving four young boys. Mathew and
his brothers went into the orphanage in Undyour in 1951. Mathew was 3.
Mr and Mrs Sinclair came to the orphanage in 1952 when Mathew was 4. They were instrumental in
giving him and the other 59 boys as good a life as possible. They were Mathews parents and he loved
them and their family very much.
Mrs. Sinclair is still alive and just the day before Mathew passed he wanted to speak with his Mom. She
was such a strong influence in his life.
Mathew had a tremendous memory for names, birthdays, anniversaries etc. His Sister Sharon
mentioned that his birthday calls were so very precious. Mathew sang Happy Birthday to them and
then always said “What do you know for sure”.
Mathew became a landed immigrant to Canada April 15, 1974. He was so proud of being Canadian.
Canada Day was so important to him
Mathew worked for many years for Chevrolet Canada, working first for Gary Hawe and later Peter
Baljet. He was a well known member.
Mathews undying faith and his church family were so very important to him. He loved going to church
and had his favourite seat for many years. When he needed his walker he had his place in the back of
the church.
Mathew never forgot his roots and his “brothers” in the boarding home. He faithfully helped the “old
boys” and their families financially through the years. He was able to take a few trips back when his
health permitted.
The many Missionaries who were at the boys home were very important to Mathew – he never forgot
them. Des and Dorothy Worrall held a special place in his heart and so many others over the years.
Mathew did his best to support them with his prayers and whatever other support he could give.
Even though Mathew had many health concerns over the years he always remained optimistic and kind
to those he met. When he would go on his walks, people would honk and he would smile and wave.
I would like to thank so many people who were involved with Mathews care in the last years.
The palliative team and the staff of Cowichan Home Support were absolutely great. With their help
Mathew was able to stay home longer and be comfortable.
The staff at Sunridge did their work with kindness and compassion. You are all so very appreciated.
Dr. A. Thompson, Dr. Al-Kutbi, Dr. Brendan O’Malley – thank you for your care and compassion.
Mathew is survived by his wife, Eva and Step-son Johan.