Obituary of James Gerald Mattheis
"To A Man Well Loved"
James Gerald Mattheis of Red Deer AB, entered his heavenly home on February 20, 2025, at the Red Deer Hospice, surrounded by his loving family at the age of 82 years.
In 1943, James was born in Medicine Hat, Alberta, the eldest of two sons born to Albert and Emma Mattheis. He spent his early years in Hilda, Alberta, where his family farmed before moving to Medicine Hat. There, he attended high school and later pursued further education at Canadian Union College in Lacombe.
James built a successful career in the petrochemical and manufacturing industries. He began at Northwest Nitro in Medicine Hat before moving to Fort McMurray to work at Great Canadian Oilsands. His expertise led him to Red Deer, where he played a key role in operating and coordinating at the newly established Alberta Gas Ethylene Company (now Nova Chemicals). Later, he returned to Fort McMurray for a shift supervisor role at Canadian Natural Resources Limited before concluding his career with a project contract at Nova Chemicals in Red Deer.
Known for his remarkable ability to fix and repair anything, James was a natural tinkerer. He also had a passion for model railroads, automobiles, and travel.
In 1966, James married the love of his life, Donna (Bayer), who he called the rock of his life. Together, they raised two sons: Nyles (Arezo) Mattheis of Calgary, along with their children, Sage and Jade. Tyler (Stacy) Mattheis of Red Deer, along with their children, Luke (McKayla) and great-grandson Jones; Aubrey (Andy Reed); and Tatum. James is also survived by his brother, Terry (Janis) Mattheis of Aldergrove, BC, and their children, Dr. Kelly Mattheis of Vancouver, BC, and Christy Mattheis of Abbotsford, BC. He will be dearly missed by extended family, friends, and former colleagues.
He was predeceased by his parents, as well as numerous uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends.
The family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care provided by the doctors and nurses at Red Deer Regional Hospital and the University of Alberta Hospital. His final days were spent in the warmth of family and the exceptional staff at Red Deer Hospice.
An open house for Jim will be held in the main foyer of CrossRoads Church, (SW corner of 32 St and highway 2), 38105 Range Road 275, Red Deer County, AB on Friday, March 28, 2025 between the hours of 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in James’ memory may be made directly to the Red Deer Hospice Society, 99 – Arnot Ave., Red Deer, AB T4R 3S6 (email: gifts@reddeerhospice.com).
Condolences to James’ family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Mattheis” in the subject line.
Arrangements in care of
Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service
A locally owned cremation and funeral provider
serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta
587-876-4944