William T. “Bill” Matthew, 73

It is with heartfelt sorrow that the family of William T. (Bill) Matthew announce his passing on October 18, 2005, at home, as he wished.
Bill was born in Rainy River on January 5, 1932. He was united in marriage to Bernice Acthim in 1954.
Bill and Bernice operated the Rainy River 5¢ to $1.00 Store for many years. His firm kindness was felt by many students as they visited his candy counter at lunch hour.
Previous to operating the 5 and dime, Bill’s younger years sent him on a tour of North America, playing professional hockey.
His talents had Bill playing in the WHL with the Tacoma Rockets for his Rookie Year, the Hershey Bears of the AHL and the Troy Bruins of the IHL. Bill also spent time playing with the Sidney Millionaires, Terrace Bay Superiors, Port Arthur Bruins and the Warroad Lakers.
Bill was captain of the Fort Frances Canadians when they won the Allen Cup in 1960.
His hockey career took second place as he and Bernice raised their 4 children in Rainy River.
Bill worked briefly with the CNR, and also obtained his carpentry papers. He was the carpenter in charge of building the local Community Centre in the 1960’s, and he also worked on the local hospital. Bill was an avid curler for many years and also instructed at the Border Town Hockey School in Rainy River.
He served on Town Council and was president of the Chamber of Commerce at one time. He was also a Legion and Moose Member.
Bill enjoyed spending his summers at the cabin on Taylor Bay & visiting and fishing with family and friends.
He and Bernice spent many hours searching the shoreline for arrowheads and other artifacts.
Bill loved warming his bones in the sauna with the Taylor Bay crew, and of course sharing a few beers.
Bill was predeceased by his wife Bernice in 1985, both parents Alexander Matthew and Stella Kowal, and Stepfather John Kowal, his in-laws Nick and Mary Acthim, brother-in-law John Acthim, sister-in-law Helen Hunter and brother-in-law Norman Hunter.
He is survived by his children and their families, Barb and Peter Street, Elizabeth and Joe Nucci, Robert and Cheryl Matthew and Judy and Don Rusnak.
Grandchildren Justin, Myles & Nicholas Nucci, Michael and Alexander Matthew, Jennifer & Alison, and Scott and Jessica Rusnak.
He is also survived by his brother Gene and sister-in-law Leona, nephews Cameron, Terry and Brian.
Nephews, Bruce Acthim and Dwayne Hunter and niece Patricia Acthim.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Rainy River Hospital or the Salvation Army.