Obituary of Michael Matthews

In Loving Memory of Mike Matthews

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mike Matthews, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor and friend, who passed away on July 18, surrounded by the love of his family.

Mike was the son of Shirley & Gordon Matthews (predeceased). Mike leaves behind his wife, Linda Matthews (nee Cius) his son Ryan and daughter in law Julie (nee Bunn), and his cherished grandson Sam Matthews, who lovingly knew him as Poppa Mike. He was the beloved brother of Gordon (Karen), cousin of Susan Hendry (predeceased), Cynthia Sloan (Gray) and Douglas Gray (Kate) and Tim Matthews, and brother-in-law of Eric, Steve and Jim. 

Mike was well known throughout the Peterborough community for his remarkable mechanical ability and dedication to his craft. Over the years he built lasting friendships and earned the respect of countless customers.  His knowledge, honesty and willingness to help made him one of the area’s most respected technicians.  

An entrepreneur at heart, like his Matthews forefathers, Mike also owned outdoor power equipment businesses and enjoyed every opportunity to work with engines and machinery. In earlier years, he worked at Pilon Marine, Outboard Marine and CGE.  

In later years he became an integral part of the team at Peterborough Cycle Salvage where he enjoyed helping customers with their motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles and other powersports vehicles.   One of his proudest accomplishments was introducing Ural Motorcycles to Canada and helping establish a network of dealers across the country, combining his passion for motorcycles with his entrepreneurial spirit. 

While Mike’s career was an important part of his life, nothing meant more to him than his family.  He treasured every moment spent together whether it was racing motorcycles, snowmobiles and boats, enjoying long days at the Gray family cottage or simply sharing laughs around the dinner table. He created a lifetime of memories through his adventurous spirit, his love of the outdoors and his ability to make every gathering special.

Mike will be remembered for his kindness, his incredible work ethic, his sense of humour and his willingness to lend a helping hand.  He touched the lives of so many through his work, his friendships and his unwavering love for his family.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in the countless memories he gave us and the legacy he leaves behind.

Mike will always be remembered and forever missed. We love you Mike, we love you Dad, we love you Poppa Mike. 

A Celebration of Mike’s Life will be held on Wednesday July 29, 2026 from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM at Hendren Funeral Home, 66 Queen Street Lakefield. Words will be shared by Pastor Aaron Holbrough at 8:00 PM. Memorial donations may be made to The Alzheimer Society of Peterborough by visiting www.hendrenfuneralhome.com or by calling 705-652-3355.