Frank Joseph Matthews

Frank Joseph Matthews passed away Tues. March 8, 2016.

Frank was born Dec 24, 1930 in Visalia, California to Clarence (Jerry) Switzer and Cloedell Stephens. Later he was adopted by his much loved step-father, Joseph Frank Matthews.  Frank grew up in California, Utah and Colorado. He was raised as an only child but in 1996 he was thrilled to learn that he had a brother and 2 sisters. His relationship with them became a cherished part of his life. 

Shortly after his 16th birthday Frank joined the Marine Corps (they thought he was older) and for the next 20 years he served his country, first as a Marine, and then with the Air Force. Frank was trained as flight crew radio operator. He was stationed in China then served as part of the post war occupation troops in Germany. He was also stationed in Santiago Chile, Sacramento California, New Delhi India, and Orlando Florida. After his military retirement Frank worked as a radio operator for ARINC first in Salt Lake City and then in Denver, Colorado. Later he went to work at Hill Air Force Base and retired there. 

Since Frank joined the military before finishing high school he completed high school later with a GED and went on to earn an associate degree from Steven Henager Business College. 

April 2, 1955 Frank married the love of his life, Jeannine Perry, in Elko, Nevada, Their marriage was later solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple. Frank and Jeannine had 3 children. Frank was an avid stamp collector. He also enjoyed making and painting military miniatures and would set up elaborate battle scenes in his basement. Frank especially enjoyed fishing.  

Frank is survived by his loving wife Jeannine, his children Joanne & (Wynn) Hall, Mark & (Heidi) Matthews and David Matthews, 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.  He is also survived by his brother Jerry Switzer and sisters Carolyn (Walt) Boehringer and Pam & (Lee) Zilka.

 He was preceded in death by his mother, father and step father. 

The family would like to thank the wonderful Med Techs and CNAs at Lotus Park Assisted Living for their love and care.

Graveside Service will be held Saturday, March 12, 2016, at 1 pm at Lindquist's Memorial Gardens of the Wasatch, 1718 Combe Rd, Ogden, UT.