We lost one of the best. One from our Greatest Generation. Hank Mattimore died peacefully at home yesterday, surrounded by those he loved most. His daughter Laura and son Sean and their families were there to hold him. My sister Elaine said exactly what we are all feeling when she shared with her friends: “My mom’s youngest brother, my dear, dear Uncle Hank died today. I don’t have the heart to tell you how good he was. Just trust me that the world has dimmed.”
They played Irish music for him. It was quiet, peaceful. And then we imagine the warm and possibly wild heavenly welcome he received from his wife Kathleen, parents Joe and Tiny, siblings Joe, Mary and Dan, and all the Mattimore cousins — Mary, Harry, Jane, Jack, Sally and Kay. Indeed the big family reunion up there will probably go on for days!
To his family we say that what we have all shared and loved about Uncle Hank we can never lose. Because all that we love deeply becomes part of us.
To Uncle Hank, we say…
May the road rise to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face.
And rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of his hand.
A beautiful tribute to a gentle, humble man whose entire life was in service to disadvantaged youth, the lost, the lonely, and the broken. His compassion was endless and he taught us a lot I hope we all step into the large shoes Uncle Hank left with more service, more love, more compassion in a world starving for it.
Jack Mattimore, SJ says: Condolences to Laura and Sean and their families and to Dick. What a wonderful and rich life Hank had each step of the way. He touched so many. God blessed Hank abundantly and he, in turn, was a blessing to countless others. It’s a comfort in grief to know the rich reward of a new and eternal life he now receives.
DJ Mattimore says: Gracie and I went to the Grotto yesterday to say a prayer for Uncle Hank. I put a Roman Collar around the candle as a symbol and reminder of a story Hank once shared with me…
One of Hank’s many jobs was working in nursing homes. After some of the patients learned that he had been a priest they would insist that he hear their confession. He tried to explain why he could no longer do that, but some were unrelenting. So, as Hank said, he would “put on the collar” and attend to their needs.
What an exceptional life: priest, brother, uncle, father, grandfather, friend and servant to others.
His ability to bring out the better angels in others by his selfless acts of mercy will never be forgotten.
For us, the world has just gotten a little colder.
For Uncle Hank, I’m sure he’s now hearing the words “Well done my good and faithful servant”as he is bathed in the warmth of God’s love.
Watch over us, Uncle Hank. ❤️
Beth Mattimore says: What a purpose filled life Uncle Hank led and he was so loved for it! Rozanne your tribute is beautiful as was the literary bond you shared with Uncle Hank collaborating with him on his final book- I am certain he cherished that project with you! What a wonderful end to a wonderful life❤️
Laura Mattimore Forgue says: Cousins! Rozanne! Father Jack!
I don’t know how how I missed this, but I am in tears. Thank you for the lovely sentiments . I will forever treasure this blog and your comments and memories of my dad. I am once again reminded of the great honor of being a part of this family.
❤️Laura Mattimore Forgue
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