Jim Matheson passed peacefully in his sleep on July 6, 2026, with Cindy beside him holding his hand.

He was predeceased by his father David in 2008 and nephew Erick in 2024. Jim will be lovingly remembered by his wife Cindy; son Scott (Liana); daughter Samantha; and closest to his heart, his grandchildren: Ryley, Davinia, and Brennen, his greatest joys. He is also survived by his mother, Shirley (Paul); brother John (Diana); sisters Wanda (Gil) and Velvet (Sam); nieces and nephew, Morgan, Jesse, Taylor, Rhylee, and Kaydence; along with an extended family of in-laws who will miss him dearly, in particular, his mother and father-in-law, Pauline and Don Molyneux.

Jim was a man who was unable to sit still and always put his whole being into everything he did. He was an accomplished renovator who could pretty much do it all, but was smart enough to have the best sub-contractors working alongside—men and women he came to call his friends. His personality was one that drew people in and he often had repeat customers who also came to be friends.

Jim loved the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, and camping were his favourite activities. He often commented on how wonderful the air smelled when he was deep in the bush or out on the water. Jim introduced both of his children to hunting and treasured this time with them. He tried but failed with Cindy, although she would go for a drive on occasion. He was thrilled to be able to do his bucket list hunt in Africa and doubly blessed to go again a few years later with his brother John.

The only time that Jim truly slowed down was on his island holidays with Cindy. They were blessed to have this time to just relax and enjoy each other. He was a wicked pool volleyball player and enjoyed a good swim up bar.

His biggest joy in recent years was his grandchildren, who were always able to lift his spirits and bring a smile to his face. Playing with Hot Wheels and taking walks with Ryley, or coaxing giggles and smiles out of Davinia, he was happiest when they were around.

A Celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Monday, July 13, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Eventide Funeral Home (4820 45 Street, Red Deer, AB). If you wish, a viewing is available from 12:30-2:00 p.m. Light refreshments will follow the service.

We are sincerely grateful to Red Deer Palliative Home Care and Red Deer Hospice for their care of Jim and the family.

Memorial donations can be made to the Central Alberta Cancer Centre (https://albertacancer.ca/) or a charity of one’s choice.