MATCHETT, DONNA - It is with profound sadness that the family of Donna Marlene (Vaughan) Matchett announce her passing at the Palliative Care Unit of the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton on February 29, 2012 following a brief illness. She leaves her husband of 49 years, Les Matchett, two devoted daughters: Tracey Matchett of San Francisco and Lori (Mark Foster) Matchett of Fredericton and grandchildren, Aidan and Jack. She was predeceased by her parents Jack and Marianne (Tims) Vaughan. Donna was born on September 25, 1938 in Fredericton. Upon completion of her education, she joined the family business, but later decided to further her career by taking a position in Branford, Ontario. It was there that she met her husband-to-be, Les, also a New Brunswicker. Wishing to be closer to the families they left behind, Donna and Les returned to Fredericton to marry and to begin a family of their own. Later, with her girls occupied with their studies, Donna rejoined the family business and remained there until her retirement in 2002. Donna believed that the family is the fundamental tie that binds a community together; so she made her family the center and the joy of her life. As they came, she also became a proud, doting grandmother to her precious Aida and Jack, who made themselves at home at “Nanny’s house” after school. Aside from her immediate family, few who met and knew her were immune to her cheerful disposition, wisdom and generosity. Left to mourn her passing are brothers Ronald (Dorothy) and Carl (Bonny) Vaughan, a sister Sandra and several nieces and nephews, who will sorely miss their favorite Aunt Donna. Special thanks must be extended to the staff members of the Palliative Care Unit who saw to her needs during her stay at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital. Their compassionate care and gentle understanding reached beyond Donna’s needs to also touch those of her attending family, who found in them great comfort and support.
There will be no visitation by request however a memorial service will be held in the J.A. McAdam Memorial Chapel, 160 York St., on Saturday, March 3rd, 2012 at 2pm with Canon T.A. Smith Officiating. Condolences may be offered at www.mcadamsfh.com. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Fredericton SPCA or to the charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family.