Our beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle and brother Michael “Mike” Matthews completed his journey surrounded by his loved ones on July 21 st at Benefis Hospital in Great Falls, Montana. Mike was born October 22, 1946, in Glasgow Montana to Ruby Gregg Rasor and Pete Matthews. Mike grew up in Frazer, MT for seven years then moved to Oregon where he lived for approximately seven years.
Mike was drafted to the United States Army on November 9, 1966, he became a soldier in the 25 th Infantry, Tropic Lightning. He served three and a half tours of duty in Vietnam War. While serving in Vietnam, he had two sons, Michael Duane Jr. and Lewis Paul Matthews. Mike was a well decorated soldier who earned a bronze star medal, army commendation medal, purple heart along with many other campaign ribbons. After completing his tours in Vietnam, Mike was stationed in Seoul, Korea. Mike met Chong Hyon Mun “Moon”, which he then married in 1975. Mike served in Korea for a total of 3 years. Mike and Moon brought their only daughter Angela into their lives in 1977. Mike served his country for a total of 18 years. Mike then joined the United States Bureau of Corrections in Lompoc, California after leaving the Army. Mike and Moon then brought in their youngest son, Lewis Gregg into their lives in 1980. Mike was devoted to his family. He loved cheering on his children and grandchildren in sports and anything they participated in. He enjoyed hunting, camping and especially fishing. He met his lifelong friend, John Nesbit who helped rebuild his 1955 Green Ford Pickup truck. He joined the Prairie Riders Motorcycle Club in 1995/1996. He enjoyed times with his motorcycle club (Prairie Riders Motorcycle Club) friends as well as his Harley Davidson motorcycle.
He survived by his wife Moon of 47 years, brothers: Kevin (Linda) Rasor, Gregg (Lynda) Rasor. Sisters: Kerri (Ron) Flitcroft, Melody (Jeff) Byrum, Candy Rasor. Children: Lewis Paul (Phuc) Matthews, Michael Duane Matthews, Angela (David) Matthews, Lewis Gregg (Whitney) Matthews, and Jason (Nathelle) Frederick whom he considered as a son while he was employed as the Chief Deputy for the Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office (1991-2009). Grandchildren: Thomas Rutherford, Teague Rutherford, Matthew Rutherford, Michael Rutherford, Minh Thai, Cynthia Thran, Cameron (DeVon) Quincy, Taylor Matthews, Alex Mai, Averee Matthews, Rylee Matthews, Alayna Mari, Lynn Tran, Emmy Matthews, Andrew Matthews. Charles Headdress, Henri Headdress (Patty), Lonnie Headdress (Dino), Leroy Headdress, Larry Headdress, Shannon Headdress Gonzalez, Ione Headdress, Doris Headdress and all Headdress offspring that were not mentioned.
Mike was preceded in death by his grandparents Lewis and Louise Gregg, parents Ruby Gregg Rasor and Pete Matthews, brother Jean Rasor Jr, sister Kathleen Ann Goodman, and son Josh Rutherford, cousins who he closely considered as siblings, Mitchel Headdress, Dale Headdress, Arlyn Headdress, Sheldon Headdress, and Michelle Buckelk. Fellow Prairie Riders Gary Alvstad, Dougal Murdock, and Gary Herzog.
Mike treated everybody as friends and was always willing to help others. He had many jobs and hobbies in different areas, too many to list. He will be missed by many. He is no longer in pain and surrounded by family that left before him. He was a hero to many and will continue to watch over us. There were many people that were important to him. We’re sorry if we missed anybody.
Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences for the family may be left using the form below.