Dick Matthews with daughter-in-law Janet and son Rick.
Dave Brown
Oct. 7, 2013
Farewell to a remarkable friend and visionary
Philanthropist Dick Matthews’ generosity leaves lasting legacy
The University of Calgary extends sincere condolences to the Matthews family on the loss of university friend and philanthropist Dick Matthews, who passed away Oct. 2 at the age of 93.
Matthews was a longtime patron of the arts in Calgary. One of the founding members of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, he also supported numerous organizations in the arts including the Calgary Opera and the Honens International Piano Competition.
Dick Matthews with Amanda Robertson, Marianne Ferkul, and his grandson Andrew Matthews.
Dave Brown
His gifts to the University of Calgary have made a transformative difference on campus. His most recent donation was to the Faculty of Arts to support the renovation of the Department of Drama’s studio theatre, now the F.R. Matthews Theatre. His generosity also helped create new orchestra and ensemble rehearsal spaces for the Department of Music. The Faculty of Law and the Dr. Fok Ying Tung International House also benefitted from his vision and support.
“Dick has given so much to our campus and to our community,” says President Elizabeth Cannon. “His passion for the arts and his deep belief in its value have left an indelible mark on this city. On behalf of the entire university community, I want to express our deepest sympathy to his family and our sincere appreciation that he chose to include this university in his remarkable life.”
A celebration of the life of F. R. (Dick) Matthews will be held Tuesday, Oct. 8 at 11 a.m. at Christ Church, 3602 8th St. S.W.