David Richard Mathewson

David Richard Mathewson, better known as BEAR (March 1st 1953-2024) had the sharpest wit of anyone our family has ever known. Cancer, however, claimed his life on Aug. 21st, 2024. David was 71 years of age. He was a big man with a big heart. He is predeceased by his parents, Alex and Grace Mathewson (Brady) and his sister Mary (2020). He will be terribly missed by his siblings, Dianne Paquette (Pierre), Donna Marvin (Art), Alex Mathewson (Robin), Don Mathewson (Deborah), and many nieces, nephews, cousins, the McKinnon Clan and his dear friends Debra and Larry as well as numerous Sault and TO friends.

David attended Collegiate High School in Sault Ste. Marie and played football. It was there that he got the name “Bear”. He then attended York University. He had a successful career with Eatons and George Brown College as an audio visual specialist. Following this he transitioned into IT at Casa Loma campus.

David had an insatiable curiosity and became an inveterate collector of cameras, art, music, musical instruments, lighters, harmonicas, mobiles and gadgets galore. David loved to travel: Peru, Cuba, Mexico, Costa Rica. His travel photos depict a world of beauty from the simple to the majestic. David was generous with his photography skills and took photos and videos of many family events. These captured events are treasured by family and friends. On his electric bike he travelled the neighborhood, his local playground. He would also cycle on a stationary bike in his apartment while using a 3D headset, which allowed him to peddle the world virtually.

David was the life of the party according to his friends Larry and Debra. One year he brought a Newfie “ugly stick” to a Christmas party to participate in the carols. Another year he wore a percussion vest that was loaded with instruments: a washboard, horns, and harmonica. Another year it was 6 kazoos, from bass to soprano. David loved guitar music. He collected at least 6 guitars and learned to play them well. Laughter and music were the gifts that David brought to every gathering. How sad to know that he is no longer with us!

David has been cremated. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

We thank the staff on the 10th floor of Mt. Sinai Hospital as well as Debra and Larry his faithful friends of 40 some years.

Donations can be made to Mt. Sinai, Princess Margaret, Bridgepoint Health Palliative Care or to a charity of your choice.