Henry G. Matheson
May 1st 1952 — Aug 28th 2023 (71 years)
Biography
LCol (ret’d) Henry Matheson, CD Henry G. Matheson, 71, passed away peacefully in Ottawa, ON on Monday, August 28, 2023. Born in Sydney, Nova Scotia on May 1, 1952 to the late Mary (nee Kennedy) and Sandy Matheson, he is survived by his wife Lauranne (nee MacNeill), his son Dylan (Hamilton, ON), his daughter Nan (Dartmouth, NS), his grandson Bolan, his sister Brenda (David Sawler) (Sydney, NS) and his brother Sandy (Sydney, NS). Henry is also profoundly missed by a large extended family of nieces, nephews and siblings-in-law. Henry worked for over 40 years in the field of social work and mental health. Notably, he was a member of the Canadian Armed Forces for 25 years serving in various locations across Canada and in Europe. In 2007, he retired as the National Practice Leader for Social Work. Henry loved the Canadian wilderness and was happiest spending time year round in the outdoors - hiking, camping, kayaking, cycling and skiing with family and friends. A celebration of his life will take place in Ottawa, from 2:00-5:00 PM on September 30 at Collabüro, 499 Preston Street, Ottawa. His remains will be returned to his beloved Cape Breton at a later time. Condolences or memories can be shared at https://eirene.ca/memorials/ In lieu of flowers, donations in Henry’s name may be made to your local food bank or a charity of your choice.
Notes of Condolences about Henry G.
Gail Wylie and Dave Wright
14 days ago
Oh Henry you will be missed by so many. We felt so fortunate to have met you in Winnipeg - but it was too short a time here. It was fun to meet up in Scotland as families in 2000 and occasionally over the years, including the deeply special time with you and Lauranne at home in Ottawa this spring (Brenda & David too) . Lauranne, Nan, Dylan and all the family members on both sides, we reel with you for the loss of this thinking, biking, chuckling man who was so caring, quiet and strong, and calmly rooted in the important things. His perspective was wide, his humour too. The love and care he felt for and from his family were a treasure. We will miss our friend and hope that somehow, he knew that he had a profound impression on others even though he did not seek to. Love to you Lauranne, who made Henry’s final months and days so comforting and full.
Ellen Edwards-Bacich
18 days ago
Dear Lauranne,
My heart is
Dear Lauranne,
My heart breaks for you as l read the passing of “Your Dear Henry” Oh how l remember those days when you first met Henry and “fell in love”. It sure was a match made in heaven that blossomed into so much more. Henry’s picture sure reflects his calm and caring personality. I truly am so so sorry for your loss Lauranne, and to your children Dylan and Nan, as well as Henry’s sister Brenda and brother Sandy. At this most difficult time Lauranne, l pray that as you reflect on your wonderful memories they will help to ease your pain. My sincerest condolences to each of you. To a great guy gone way too soon. Hugs.
Muriel macDonald
19 days ago
I remember Henry as a boy on Taylor street, he was the same age as my son. A very well mannered and happy boy . My condolences to his family and many friends.
my condolences to his family and friends
Gerry (Pettipas) Mouland and Wayne Mouland
20 days ago
Henry was a very kind and caring guy. We grew up in the Pier and had so many laughs through the years. Wayne and I were honored when he agreed to be Godfather to our Son Tommy. Dear Henry, I am grateful for our time spent together and you will be in our hearts forever. RIP
Betty Humeniuk Mc Intosh
20 days ago
I went to school with Henry. He was a wonderful person. He must have been an exceptional social worker. My condolences to his wife, children , Brenda and Sandy. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Shirley Morrison Maloney MacDonald
20 days ago
My sincere condolences to all of Henry’s family. Growing up in Big Harbour, Cape Breton; I knew most of Henry’s uncles and cousins, including his uncle Henry who was a very fine man. I am so very sorry to hear of his passing. I pray God will comfort you at this time of sorrow.
Dennis G GABRIEL
20 days ago
My sincere condolences to this family. On the path in this life, we meet people who are true friends and I consider Henry such a person. Here on earth, we do not know when our journey will end but we can be sure that another fabulous path awaits us. To Henry's family, may his spirit live in your heart forever.
Sonya |Shaw
20 days ago
Lauranne and Family. I am so very sad to hear of the passing of Henry. Although I have not seen Henry for years his kind and caring soul is very much remembered by me. I was a room mate to Lauranne when the love affair with Henry began:). That was lovely and mostly fun to witness. I still remember the ski trip to Sugarloaf ME where we ladies were mistaken for a women's World Cup ski team with Henry being our coach! A wonderful man. Remember him well.
KEITH SHEARS
21 days ago
I knew Henry from Sydney before his marriage and time with the military. It was a great picture of him and I was so glad to hear he enjoyed the outdoor life A great picture of him. No doubt he will be missed by all and especially his family.
Irene (Yurczyszyn) Mac lean
21 days ago
It was a pleasure growing up in Whitney Pier with a good friend like Henry. We had many good times together. You will be sorely missed. Condolences to Henry’s family and friends. RIP
Victor Jay Duguid
21 days ago
Henry was a schoolmate in the Pier all through school. My sincere condolences to his family. Henry was a fine gentleman and will be missed by all his friends here in Sydney. rest in peace.
Mariellen Chisholm, Ottawa
21 days ago
Dear Lauranne, Dylan, Nan, and Henry’s extended family, my deepest condolences. Henry was a thoughtful, gracious and caring person who loved and was loved by all who had the privilege to know him. I cherish the memories I have of the love he demonstrated to family and friends, and the peace he derived from nature, including his pleasure from a good paddle in his kayak. I send my love during this difficult time.
Bev MacPhail & Jim Snair
21 days ago
Lauranne, Dylan & Nan; You should have 15-20 more years to enjoy Henry's his company. He would put most of us to shame with his vigorous exercise routine; walking, biking, hiking, skiing, kayaking and other sports. I loved Henry's chuckle laugh, he laughed with his whole body and laughed often. He will be missed. Bev & Jim
Louise Traversy
21 days ago
I had the pleasure of working with Henry for many years. His gentleness, caring and receptiveness to others … To me that was Henry. My deepest condoleences to Lauranne and family… RIP Henry.
JeanClaude Baril
21 days ago
I have known Henry as a social work colleague in the Canadian Forces for many years. He was always very friendly and effective with all the people he came in contact with. He will be greatly missed by us all.
Gilles Goulet
22 days ago
I am deeply saddened to hear that Henry passed away. One of Henry's remarkable qualities was his attentive and empathetic listening. During my time in the Canadian Armed Forces, he was undoubtedly a mentor to me, always available to offer guidance and support whenever needed. My thoughts and condolences are with his family and loved ones during this challenging time.
Charlene Langlais
22 days ago
It was such an honour to have had the privilege to work with Henry at CFH Svcs in Ottawa. I always admired Henry's calm nature and pleasant smile. He had a natural way to make everyone in his company at ease. An amazing Social Worker. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
Margie (Peck) & Jim MacNeil
22 days ago
Lauranne, Dylan, Nan,Brenda, & Sandy
Today we lost a very wise and gentle friend.
Although we haven’t seen him for years, we always enjoyed his company. He was easy mannered and someone whose visits you enjoyed. Henry was always so proud of Dylan and Nan. He was a great friend to my sister. Please accept our deepest condolences on your loss. It was the perfect pic of Henry depicting his love for the simple things in life. RIP Henry
Doug Thompson
23 days ago
Henry was a wonderful soul. He was quiet, thoughtful, and had a great sense of humour. And yes, a twinkle in his eye. Great card player!
So many fond memories of our years spending time with Lauranne, Henry, Dylan, and Nan when the kids were young. Whether it was camping, hiking, or making meals together there was always lots to discuss. My condolences to the whole family for your loss.
Anthony Mac Neil
23 days ago
My condolences to family and friends of Henry . Having gone to school with Sandy and living nearby i remember him picking us up and driving us to school . it was a dark color newer Nova he had . I was glad for the rides . especial them colder days .
R I P
Tony MacNeil
Pickering On.
Mary McCarthy
23 days ago
I had the pleasure of working with Henry throughout the years. He was a wonderful man, gentle, compassionate and caring. He will be greatly missed.
Condolences to his family !
Helen Kennedy MacDonald
23 days ago
My deepest condolences Brenda and Sandy and family. Henry and I were childhood friends, he had a kind and loving soul.
Scott Cameron
23 days ago
I worked closely with Henry for several years in Ottawa. He was a good and decent man who believed passionately in his work and profession. He has left us too soon and will be sorely missed.
Rita/Mike MacIsaac
23 days ago
Sincerest condolences Brenda, David & family on the passing of your brother, Henry!
Greg and Marjorie MacNeill
23 days ago
The photo posted of Henry is testimony to all the expressions of praise and admiration conveyed in previous tributes. Here sits a man at peace with himself. A thoughtful, kind and generous soul who loved his family dearly. And his family, in the broad sense, were all those who were fortunate enough to have known him. He prevailed through good times and hard times, always supportive to others while keeping his own tribulations to himself. The empty sandals by his side represent a challenge to be filled.
Wanda and Ed Fedora
23 days ago
We met Henry during his visits to Cape Breton. He was always an interesting guy to chat with. Our most sincere condolences to Lauranne and his children and to our friend Brenda on the loss of her brother, someone she held close to her heart.
Loretta (Peck) Burke, Flin Flon, Mb
24 days ago
So sorry to hear of Henry’s passing. We had been friends for many years growing up in the Pier. Henry was always so thoughtful and kind to all his friends and family. Henry will be sadly missed by all who knew him. RIP MY DEAR FRIEND!
Margaret Ramsay
24 days ago
I had the privilege of working with Henry in Ottawa. His professionalism as a Social Worker was outstanding. He made work enjoyable with his wisdom and quiet sense of humour. My condolences to his family.
Mary Pringle
24 days ago
I knew Henry only through your online mentions of him, Lauranne, and it is clear that you and your family have suffered a great and premature loss. I send my sincerest condolences to you and yours.
Coleen MacNeill
24 days ago
Henry was a pillar of strength for his family. He was a brave, thoughtful, and gentle man. We will miss his dry sense of humour and that twinkle in his eye. He showed all of us how to brave the future.
Elaine NacNeill
25 days ago
Henry was a good man through and through. I’m so sorry he left us too soon. I’ll dearly miss his good sense, his dry wit, and, not least of all, his annual gift of pickled beets! My deepest condolences to Lauranne, Dylan, and Nan for your great loss.
Jim Jamieson
25 days ago
When we come into this world we are crying and fearful but all in our world are rejoicing. In the well lived life we leave at
peace while all in our world are in tears and sadness. Henry lead the well lived life.
Elissa Lamont
25 days ago
Having a friend from the time you are 17 through to your 70.'s is often a rare, but certainly a wonderful thing, I am grateful to say that Henry was that friend. Like all who knew you, there is now a very big empty spot in our lives,
Mark Vukas
25 days ago
I’ll remember Henry as a kind, calm and level-headed friend and neighbor. I absolutely loved camping/kayaking with him and Lauranne. I’ll miss you, Henry, and profoundly thank you for our friendship.
Comments Awaiting Approval:
Approved Comments:
Share Your Memory of Henry G.