Robert Raymond “Herbie” Matthewson

Robert Raymond “Herbie” Matthewson

HAMMONDSPORT – Robert Raymond “Herbie” Matthewson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 24th, 2023, after a long and valiant battle with cancer. He was born on May 1st, 1951, in Lackawanna, NY, to Norene Keine and Herbert Anthony Matthewson.

Proudly educated at Bishop Timon High School and Canisius College, Herbie possessed an insatiable thirst for knowledge. His intellect and passion for acquiring both useful and trivial information rendered him an indomitable force in any room, often allowing him to outshine all living room challengers in his nightly viewing of Jeopardy.

Herbie, a distinguished figure in his community, was a longstanding member and former president of the Hammondsport Rotary. He exemplified the Rotary’s values through his service and commitment. His devotion was honored with the esteemed Paul Harris Award, a testament to his many contributions. Herbie’s faith was also an integral part of his life. As a lifelong devout Catholic, he actively participated at St. Gabriel’s church in Hammondsport, finding solace and strength in his community.

In addition to his community involvements, Herbie had a thirty-year career with the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, administering road tests throughout the region.

Herbie’s legacy extends beyond his accomplishments, touching the lives of those he held dear. He leaves behind his beloved wife of forty-four years, JoAnn Matthewson. Herbie will be deeply missed by his children, Kristopher A. (Caitlin) Matthewson, Mary (Mickael) Rabilloud, and Robert K. (Samantha) Matthewson. The light of Herbie’s life also includes his cherished grandchildren, Eleanor and Evelyn Matthewson, and Remy and Emmeline Rabilloud.

He is also survived by his brother, David (Gloria) Matthewson, brothers-in-law William (Genave) Allein and Richard (Karen) Allein, sisters-in-law Mary (Jim) Barnum and Susan Green, and several beloved nieces and nephews who adored their “Uncle Herbie.”

Additionally, Herbie is survived by his faithful canine companion, Parker, who provided unconditional love and friendship throughout his journey.

In honor of Herbie’s memory, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Roswell Park Cancer Center, an institution committed to fighting the disease that touched Herbie’s life.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, May 26th from 4pm to 7pm at Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, 35 Main St., Hammondsport. A mass to celebrate Herbie’s life will be held at St. Gabriel’s Church in Hammondsport on Saturday, May 27th at 11am. Interment and graveside service will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery in Buffalo on Tuesday, May 30th at 11am.

The Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home is honored to assist Herbie’s family with the arrangements.

Online condolences or remembrances of Herbie are welcome below in the comment section or on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home..