Bobby M. Mathews, 91, Warsaw, passed away at 5:45 p.m. Thursday, May 3, 2018, in his residence. Heaven gained an incredible soul and Earth lost one of the greats.
He was born to Harvey and Wilma Tully Mathews on May 20, 1926. A lifetime Warsaw resident, he was united in marriage to Nila Rhodes on Oct. 21, 1949.
He faithfully served his country in the United States Army from 1944 to 1946 in Battery A, 530th Field Artillery Battalion as a private 1st class (gun crewman) in the European Theater during World War II.
He was a member of Warsaw Elks Lodge 802 and Warsaw American Legion Post 49. He officiated Warsaw High School track and volleyball for many years, was a season ticket holder for Warsaw basketball for 30 years and a Wagon Wheel Playhouse season ticket holder for 20 years.
He was formerly employed by Flexhaust, Warsaw, and retired with 28 years of service.
Survivors include his daughter, Luann (spouse Mark) Smothers, Roanoke; grandchildren: James Bashop, Roanoke; Jacqueline (spouse Aaron) Zuercher, Warsaw; Kelsey Smothers, Harlan; Zach Smothers, Spencerville; and Tyler and Bryce Smothers, both of Roanoke; and five great-grandchildren.
He was preceded by his brother and sister-in law, William and Roma Mathews.
Calling is scheduled from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 11, at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapel, Warsaw.
His funeral service is scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday, May 12, with calling one hour prior, in the funeral chapel. Pastor Tim Sprankle will officiate.
Interment will be in Milford Cemetery, with military rites conducted by Warsaw American Legion Post 49, VFW Post 1126 and U.S. Army Funeral Honors Detail.
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To sign the guest register or leave condolences electronically, go to mchattonsadlerfuneralchapels.com.
