Obituary of Leslie Elmer Matchett

The family of Leslie "Les" Elmer Matchett sadly announces his passing on January 27, 2024, in Fredericton, New Brunswick.

 

Les was born on May 17,1937, in Restigouche, Quebec, to Vance Matchett and Evelyn (McKinley). As a youngster, he moved to Brantford, Ontario.  When he finished school, he joined the Navy for five years.

 

In 1962, Les met Donna Vaughan from Fredericton, who was working in Ontario. They married, settled in Fredericton, and raised two amazing daughters, Tracey and Lori. Donna passed away eleven years ago. His precious Lori, who battled cancer for years, passed away on January 25, 2024. If blood cancer and pneumonia had not taken Les, a broken heart would have gotten him.

 

Les worked for the NB government’s Department of Supply and Services for 33 years. A piece of trivia - he operated the first Electronic Computer that the government owned. He enjoyed sports, either playing or watching. He played softball for Acadia Marble and hockey for Hillcrest Farms and the RCAF club. He was also a sharpshooter on the RCAF dart team. Golfing at Mactaquac was a highlight for many years and he aced two holes. Football and curling were his favorite sports to watch. 

 

Les loved to be around people, and he had many friends. It would not be fair to try to mention them in case someone was missed. He enjoyed all the neighbours and kids on the street. He became known as the Mayor of Bessborough Street. He never had anyone run against him! The Matchett house was a gathering spot for everyone. When you showed up, you were always welcomed by Donna and Les. And to no surprise, you were asked if you would like a beer or glass of wine. If that didn't work, then how about a drink of Old Sams?

 

In addition to Les being predeceased by his parents, wife Donna, and daughter Lori, his three siblings have passed as well - brother, Robert and sisters, Rita and Doris. He is survived by his daughter Tracey (Jim Malafronte) of Atlanta, Georgia; twin grandsons, Aidan and Jack Foster, and son-in-law, Mark Foster, all of Fredericton; as well as several nieces and nephews.

 

Over the weeks, Les had a steady stream of visitors, and we thank them for all their love and support. We hope his many friends will continue to share their wonderful memories. Les would want them to remember and talk about the good times they had together. 

 

McAdams Funeral Home has been entrusted with Les's arrangements, and cremation has taken place. At the request of Les, there will be no visitation or service. A celebration of life will take place at a future date. If you would like to make a donation in his memory, it can be made to a charity of your choice, but whenever Les made a donation, it was always to the SPCA. Les always loved cats and dogs.