Mathewson, Greta Mona Lavenny, of the Upperbrook Farm in North River, was reunited with her family in heaven just before sunrise on Thursday, April 11, 2019. Greta spent her last moments at home with family at her side. She was born 89 years ago to Daniel & Alma (Persson) Ekstrand in Calgary, AB. From an early age Greta was resilient, independent & innovative. Her strong faith and willingness to be of service compelled her to missionary & nursing work in Tanganyika, Africa where she met her husband Bill. She had a warm smile & compassionate blue eyes that lit up a room & welcomed all. For 33 years Greta served as a night supervisor & head of the Diabetic Clinic at the Colchester Regional Hospital in Truro. For the last 30 years Greta nurtured her creative & entrepreneurial side offering ‘Woolies’ jams & crafts at the Truro Farmers’ Market. She was a God-caring & loving wife, mother, grandmother & friend who enjoyed doing things for her family, friends & anyone she possibly could. She was a dedicated member of St. James Presbyterian Church in Truro. Greta is survived by sons Allan (Lek) of Thailand & Alastair of Bible Hill; daughters Karen Cameron of BC & Ruth of Central North River; granddaughter Sonja Cameron & great-grandson Luca Vitale of BC; sister Irene Tester of Calgary; sister-in-law Dorcas Ekstrand & brother-in-law Iain (Mary) Mathewson of Australia…as well as several nieces & nephews. Greta was predeceased by her husband Bill, her grandson Deke & siblings Amy & Clarence. The family would like to whole heartedly thank all the Victorian Order of Nurses, the Palliative Care Team, & Dianne for all their TLC. No flowers by request. Donations in Greta’s memory may be made to the William Mathewson Bursary Fund, or to the Presbyterian World Service & Development. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Mattatall ~ Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street Truro. Visitation was held 5–7 pm Monday, April 15, at St. James Presbyterian Church Hall, 725 Prince Street Truro, and where a celebration of Greta’s life was held at 2pm on Tuesday, April 16th, at the church, with Rev. Andrew Campbell officiating and kind words from Rev. Dr. David Sutherland. A reception followed in the church hall. A private family interment will be held at a later date.
She will be forever in our hearts and Gods hands