May 12, 1932 - April 30, 2025
Anton Jacob 'Tony' Matt passed away in Blueberry Creek, B.C. on April 30th at the age of 92. Tony was born in Balgonie, Saskatchewan on May 12, 1932 to Joseph and Marian Matt. Tony and his 10 siblings grew up on a farm in Balgonie. In his younger years, Tony enjoyed softball and was a good pitcher, according to his siblings. He attended grade school at St. Joseph's Colony and high school in Balgonie.
Tony eventually moved East and joined the Royal Canadian Air Force where he met his future wife, Lorraine Keller, who was also serving in the Air Force. Tony and Lorraine wed on May 19, 1962 in Quebec City. After the Air Force, Tony began working at Cominco in Trail. The family eventually settled in the Castlegar, B.C. area where he and Lorraine raised their 3 children.
Tony was predeceased by his parents and several siblings. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Lorraine, and their 3 children: Carolin (Terry) Klapper, Sandra (Tim) McCoy and Travis (Linda) Matt. He leaves behind 3 grandchildren, Alex, Dayna and Evan. He is also survived by his sisters, Pauline, Evelyn and Katherine and sisters-in-law, Hazel and Alice, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
In 1994, Tony retired from Cominco and enjoyed 30+ years of retirement. He loved spending as much time outdoors as he could. He was an excellent golfer and was a member at the Castlegar Golf Course for over 40 years. He spent many happy days golfing with friends until his mid-80s. Tony was even lucky enough to experience a hole-in-one. Tony spent many years in a Castlegar bowling league where he bowled until his mid-80s. He was an enthusiastic gardener and he grew fruits and vegetables for many years. Tony's favorite thing to grow was tomatoes and he was well known for the delicious tomatoes he grew and shared with family and friends. He was never happier than when puttering around outside, especially in his garden.
Tony will be missed by his family and he will be remembered for his quiet demeanor and his sense of humor. At Tony's request, there will be no service.