Obituary of Joseph E. Matthews

Joseph E. Matthews Olean, NY Joseph E. Matthews of 520 Martha Ave. passed away Sunday (April 24, 2016) at the Olean General Hospital after a long illness. Born January 29, 1938 in Olean he was the son of Joseph Edward and Martha Isabelle Weatherell Matthews. He was married to Elaine Fairfield who predeceased him in January 2000. Mr. Matthews attended school in Portville and later served with the US Army from 1962-1964 and remained in the Army Reserves until 1967. He graduated from St. Bonaventure University and then received a post-graduate degree in Business Science from the University of Buffalo. He had a successful career and primarily worked and lived in Arcade as a banker and later senior vice president for Central Trust Co., headquartered in Rochester. He also worked as a chief financial officer for the Wyoming County Community Hospital in Warsaw prior to his retirement. He enjoyed golfing and was a member of the Springville Country Club. He more recently lived in Portville and then Olean where he attended the First Presbyterian Church in Portville. He enjoyed performing magic shows for children and making balloon figures to the children's delight. Surviving are a daughter Lorain Matthews of Dansville, VA; a son Jason E. Matthews of Olean; 4 grandchildren Iann and Kayden Matthews and Callie and Caleb Cagwin; 3 siblings Judith (Bob) Bell of Olean, Jan (Nick) Cucchiarella of Garrison and Tom (Debbie) Weatherell of Olean; a sister-in-law Gail Matthews of Westons Mills and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife he was predeceased by a brother Robert Matthews. Friends are welcome to gather with the family at the First Presbyterian Church of Portville on Sunday (May 1, 2016) from 3-4pm. A memorial service will begin at 4pm. Rev. Marilyn Hale, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be at a later date at Arcade Rural Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of the Casey, Halwig & Hartle Funeral Home, Olean. Online condolences may be expressed at oleanfuneralhome.com.