It is with great sorrow we announce the death of Richard T. (Rich) Mathews after a long hard battle of illnesses.

Rich was born on October 18, 1947 to Richard (Dick) and Claire Murray Mathews.  He was a graduate of Blakely High School. After graduation he enlisted in the United States Army where he served for three years and then continued to serve in the Pennsylvania National Guard until his retirement as a Staff Sergeant in October 2007.

Rich was employed at Kaplan's Slaughter House in Olyphant for 20 years until they closed and then as a Radio Security Dispatcher at the Hideout in Lake Ariel until his retirement.  Throughout his life he had close long-term friendships and will be missed by those who knew him.

He was a resident of Throop and often enjoyed time with family and friends.  He loved to watch football and was a diehard fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and loved to watch Patrick Mahomes play.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Thomas.  Rich is survived by his wife Pamela, of 32 years.  His sister Judith and husband Joseph Smith of Lake Ariel. He was an Uncle to his three nieces and a nephew, CarrieAnn Cameron, Allentown; Judi Jo Shaffer, Flaire Smith and Joseph Smith, Lake Ariel, as well as a Great Uncle to three great nieces and three great nephews.  Rich was also loved and will be missed by his extended family Randall and Brooke Fish and Courtenay Hughes.  Rich's two dogs he loved Lacey and Basil will also miss him.  Rich will always be remembered for having a smile on his face, his infectious laugh and enjoying life.

The family greatly appreciate and would like to thank his Doctors, Dr. Sean McCall, Dr. Martin Hyzinski and his staff, Dr. Christopher Peters and Dr. Rama.

After cremation, the family plans a private celebration of life in the near future.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to Rich's favorite organization the Humane Society in his honor.