Obituary: Matherly, John W.
John was the 7th of 11 children.
The family moved to Springdale, Washington in 1927.
John graduated from Springdale High School in 1942 and soon after graduation; he entered into the United States Army, World War II.
John was in the 3808 Quarter Masters Division Trucking Company with the duties of driving all types of military vehicles.
Drove in convoys hauling supplies, personnel and equipment, jeeps, big trucks and the majority of the time spent hauling infantry troops up to the forward line.
John served in the Battle of Normandy, Northern France, Ardennes, and Rhineland in Central Europe.
After serving, it took 17 days by sea to return to New York City and then time to travel returning to Springdale, Washington.
Later he traveled to Alaska with his friend, Louie, and found work in the mines.
He returned to home later after healing from a broken back.
He spent the next years working in Spokane, Washington in the construction industry when he picked up the nickname “Maverick”.
John retired in 1984 and returned to Springdale to be his parent’s caregiver.
After his parent’s deaths in 1985 and 1990 he stayed in his parent’s home.
John passed away on December 29, 2014 and is survived by sister Alyce M. (Len) Durheim, Mead, WA and brother, William H. Matherly Everett WA and many wonderful nieces, nephews and cousins.
He is preceded in death by parents Edward R. and Hazel Matherly; brothers: LeRoy, Ray, Wayne, Gene and Frank Matherly; sisters: Hilda Whitney, Lizzie Grasser and Maxine Griffin.
John took pride in becoming very active in the community and for several years he was the Springdale Cemetery caretaker.
He enjoyed a good game of pool, crossword puzzle, pinochle, horsehoes, faithful in following all sports, gardening and a nice cold beer with friends and family.
He was dearly loved and will be missed.
The services were held on January 3, 2015 at the Springdale Community Church in Springdale, Washington, officiated by Pastor Sonny Clemmer.
John was laid to rest in the Springdale Cemetery family plot.